Learning the basics of basketball is quite easy. The basic strategies of the game can be acquired in a few minutes time. In saying that, however, it does not matter what level of skill you are playing at; there is always room for improvement.
Start out with proper balance before attempting to take a shot. You have seen some crazy shots made by professionals, but these shots aren’t going to be based on fundamentals. They improvise to do that. By focusing on balance in your shot, you will develop the consistency needed to be a great scorer.
There is a lot of pressure when shooting free throws. You’re able to train your whole body to do full free throw motions, but if you’re not mentally prepared, you will fail. Relax and concentrate on your basket to increase your free throws.
Watch how the pros play basketball. Go to professional games in person and/or watch them online or on TV. You will see that each great player has certain skills that make him great and you can practice what you see him doing.
When working out, focus on building your core strength and perfecting your footwork. Your body is going to be more balanced and be able to move faster when you have strong core muscles. Your hip, buttocks, back and abdomen muscles need to be worked on. Much like boxers do, you have the ability to bolster your footwork and agility by using a jump rope.
Have your games taped so you can play them back later and observe your court presence. You may see things differently as you observe the game and notice things you missed in the game. Don’t be too critical, but do be honest. Sometimes it’s beneficial to look at yourself the way you really look and not just like you think you look.
Free Throws
A consistent pre-shot routine when at the line will increase your chance at success. If you’re not consistent you’ll find yourself missing free throws. You have to practice time and time again. Just keep repeating free throws, if you want to perfect that technique. If you have a glitch in the routine, you are likely to miss your shot.
To gain greater dribbling skill, always practice with the weaker hand as well as the more dominant one. Opponents are a lot easier to blow by when you can dribble with ease using both hands. You can actually force yourself to utilize your weak hand by tying your other hand behind you. Your weak hand will soon develop better dribbling skills.
Good footwork can really help you to get those rebounds. Use your feet to slip around the opposing player below you, then get into position for a rebound off the rim. This allows you to secure the rebound without finding yourself penalized.
You can strengthen you weaker hand by using it as much as possible, for instance open jars or even brush your teeth. If your ability to use that hand starts to improve, the benefits to your basketball playing talents will be substantial. As a result, your basketball game will significantly improve.
While you’re dribbling the basketball it is wise to bend your knees. The ball is harder to control dribbling when you stand up straight. It also leaves you open to a steal from the opposing team. Bending your knees will make a big difference in the way you can control the ball.
If you wish to do better a shooting three pointers, you should do it from where NBA players shoot from. All other distance lines, high school, college and International, are not as far. You are less likely to be guarded, the farther you are from the basket.
Shoot hundreds of shots every day from every position on the court to improve your shooting skills. Practice dribbling and quick shots. Only lift your head up to check out the target once you are in the air. Doing so allows you to move more precisely and with greater accuracy.
Keep dribbling when you’re going to switch the body’s momentum from side to side. This will help you learn to dribble during all different kinds of situations. You might have a truly open court, but you might also be dealing with an onslaught of opposition. You must know how to dribble effectively by leaning your body in both directions. Dribbling can help get you out of trouble.
Use the hand you are not dribbling with to keep your defender away from the ball. You don’t need to push any opponents since that’s a foul, but try using your non-dribbling arm like a separator for keeping the ball safe. This move helps to keep the ball protected and you in control of it.
Maybe you are a newbie when it comes to basketball. Perhaps you’ve played ever since childhood. Either way, the information here can help you improve your game. When you head out to play the next time, follow the suggestions you’ve learned here.