Would you let just anyone work on your car, or try to do it yourself without finding out the proper way to do things? You will become better when you do the research. This article will teach you the basics so you can get up to speed on the game of basketball.
Dribble properly. When you dribble, only use your fingertips instead of your palms. This provides you with much more ball control. When dribbling the basketball you should bounce it to your side instead of right in front. Instead of focusing on the ground, gaze upward.
Bounce Pass
Practice your bounce pass. If done correctly, a well-executed bounce pass will reach the player in a way that allows them to move immediately with the ball. Aim for a firm bounce pass that hits the ground around 3/4 of the distance between you and the intended player. There are other factors you have to think about too, however.
Watch the pro’s play if you want to improve your game. Watch pro games on TV, or attend games in person. Every truly great player has unique skills that you can learn from.
Don’t just practice your game against the zone defense. Most of the game is played in zone, but your opponent may try to switch things up to do man-to-man coverage. If your practice did not include this, you can quickly lose control of the game.
Playing basketball does not require excessive muscle development. While muscle mass is good for any basketball position, perimeter play requires less than other positions. Overdeveloped muscles could actually interfere with your score percentage.
When it is not basketball season, keep in practice by shooting baskets and practicing your skills. These skills all help with muscle memory so you know just what to do when you’re playing in a game. Don’t fret! There is still much you can accomplish playing alone. Whether focusing on foul shots or how to pivot with the ball, you can look for ways to improve. You can always practice something.
Core Muscles
If you have a high school level basketball player for a kid, be sure their core muscles are properly trained. This is the hip area, the lower back, and the abs. The core muscles link lower and upper extremities. Without a strong core, they won’t have strong athletic performances. A core that’s solid and strong will allow you to use force that comes from your legs so you can jump higher and run faster.
Never try to push through pain after an injury. It’s easy to be hurt when playing basketball. Continuing to play when you are in pain can make an injury worse. Be sure to seek medical care if you have a serious injury.
Make it your goal to never turn away from the ball on the court. This will help you stay on top of quick changes in possession or plays attempted by your opponent. Keep an eye open for easy shots.
If you’re looking to be the best defensive player that you can be, you’ll want to know your opponent. Study video tape on your opponent and read over any scouting reports. Know the dominant hand of every player. Studying your opponent is one of the best ways to be able to win the game. A defender that has knowledge will be a strong one.
Watch your shoulders and their position if you notice yourself developing a slump in your shooting. When your shoulders are positioned improperly, you will never make the basket regardless of how good your abilities are. Be sure that your shoulders square up in front of the hoop. The dominant shoulder must be perfectly aligned with the rim.
Workout to increase flexibility and strength in your hands and forearms. Do some wrist curls as much as possible and your dribbling should get better. Don’t just think you can place yourself in one spot, wait for the ball then hoist up a shot. While this does happen on occasion, you should be moving in order to execute the play.
A good drill to try is the five dribble drill. You try to get the ball the entire length of the court in only five dribbles. This can seem impossible, but if you do it, you’ll get incredible speed and length. It can mean easier lay-ups when dealing with fast breaks and it can help your teammates for just a moment.
Be certain you are able to see well. This will help you to secure the ball during the game. You want to be sure that your peripheral vision is at its best. If you view the entire game without focusing on the ball, you’ll see defensive pressure advance, along with open teammates.
When you have the chance, take charge. This play gets your team possession of the ball and a foul against your opponent. This is a great way to take control of the court and intimidate the other team.
Trip up the offense by constantly changing your pace. You can try faking a jump shot by planting quickly, and straightening your body. Your guard will do the same, thinking you plan to stop. When they do, push ahead hard and outrun them.
Maintain a lower position as you play defense. This will help you be quicker on the jump and react to the man in front of you easier. Stay in your defensive stance. If you need to leave your feet in order to prevent your opponent from shooting the ball, quickly get back into that good defensive position.
Fixing your car yourself will give you a great sense of pride. It pales in comparison to the feeling you’ll have when you learn how to play basketball well, however. This will help you win more and become more impressive.