What all should you know about basketball as a sport? What do you need to become a much better player and to better appreciate the game? This piece offers a valuable foundation and ought to provide you with terrific insights about playing smart basketball.

Make sure that you’re dribbling the ball correctly. Don’t use your palm to dribble, but use your fingertips instead. This helps you to control the ball better. Dribble the ball around the height of your waist, and over to one side. Look up and never down at the ground.

TIP! Dribbling the ball the right way needs to be done. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand.

Make sure you are looking forward and looking up as you’re dribbling. Anyone who watching the ball while they dribble surely needs to spend more time in the gym practicing. Take the ball with you wherever you go. Dribble on your way to school. Always look ahead when you are dribbling the ball.

Free throws have a huge mental element to them. It’s easy to physically train for a free throw, yet mental preparation is also needed. Stay focused and vigilant to improve your ability to make free throws.

Don’t bulk up if you want to be good as a jump shooter. Even though having strong muscles is great for the inside game, being on the outside it can harm you when shooting the ball. You will notice that most basketball players have well-defined muscles that are not overdeveloped.

TIP! Make sure you learn how to shoot free throws. This seemingly simple shot can be difficult to execute under game conditions.

Would you like to pull one over on the other team? Back passes are a great way to confuse other players. Hold the ball using your dominant hand. Keep control of the ball while it is behind your back. Next, snap your wrist in the direction you want the ball to be moved to. This should be helpful in tricking them team.

Don’t play while injured or else your injury will worsen. This sport is physically demanding and you can become injured. Trying to play through the pain could just cause more damage. Don’t hesitate to see the doctor if you feel the injury warrants it.

Do you have the answers you were looking for? Are you prepared to get out there and show off some new skills? Can you deal with becoming a better basketball player thanks to this article? Get out there and begin practicing while putting these tips into practice so you can reap the rewards.