It’s difficult to overestimate just how many fans of basketball there are around the world. To love the game even more and maximize your enjoyment whether playing or watching is to understand everything there is to know about it. The information in this article will help you get some additional insight into the game.

Many people forget that defense is as important as offense during practice. Defense is how you win a basketball game. While offense seems to get the praise, defense must be stellar in order to win.

TIP! Practice layups often. Layup shots make up nearly 80% of a game’s shots.

Crossing over is a vital skill to have for handling the basketball. A crossover means moving the ball between your hands. The action needs to be performed quickly in order to be successful. When done properly, crossover dribbling is a great way to quickly switch direction or move around the court in an efficient manner.

A bounce pass is essential to learn. It is best when the ball hits the receiving player near the waist. A useful tip is to have the ball bounce roughly 3/4 of the distance to the recipient. But, there are some factors that can change this.

Watch the pro’s play if you want to improve your game. Go to as many pro games as possible, watch them on TV, or watch videos of them playing. When you find a player who has the skills that you want, then watch them and emulate.

TIP! Make sure that your regular practice includes catching of passes. Don’t just work on waist-level, perfect passes, though, work on receiving tougher passes as well.

Good footwork is important when you’re posting up in the paint. Although physical presence under the basket is important, getting to a good spot before your opponent does is even more important. If you are just stepping into position, you now have to secure the spot. Solid footwork can make both of these things happen.

Basketball is an exciting game that many people worldwide have come to love. Without sufficiently knowing the intricacies of basketball, you could feel lost with it. Hopefully the information learned here has helped you to have a better grasp on how to play better basketball.