Do you find yourself fantasizing that you are one of the best players of all time? Instead of just aspiring to be a great, why not continue to learn more techniques and strategies that can help you out. This article will tell you how to master the game of basketball.

If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. Your best skills may not be center-stage every game, but knowing how to play the best angles can help you give more to your team. Clear self knowledge and dedicated practice will make you the best at what you do.

TIP! Perfect your layup technique. Layups comprise approximately 80 percent of all shots.

Don’t limit your practice to just playing against the zone defense. Usually, a big part of the game is probably going to be in zone; however, the opposing team can suddenly switch to man-to-man to catch you off guard. When you don’t know how to defeat it, you will lose.

In order to get a good shot, good footwork is essential when posting up. Being physical under the rim is crucial, but having good positioning on the court is even better. You need to be sure your spot is secure. Good solid footwork will help you develop the skills you need for success.

Understanding the opponent is key in beating a tough defense. Watch replays and follow scouting reports. Learn which of the opposing players are left-dominant and which are right-dominant. Once you have a solid idea of your opponent, you can dial in on the best way to defend. Strong defenders are knowledgeable defenders.

TIP! Free throws are as much mental as they are physical, like other parts of the game. Without a strong mindset, your body simply goes through the motions to take the shot.

If you aren’t shooting the ball well, you need to concentrate on your shoulders. If you have bad shoulder position it doesn’t matter how great you are the shot isn’t going to go in. Ensure that you line up your shoulders so that they are squared with the basketball net. You should also make sure that your dominant shoulder is lined up with the rim.

The best free throws come as a result of routine. You could dribble twice, touch your forehead, bend your knees, or some other kinds of movements. Just remember it has to be fast and consistent. The reason is, this routine will put your body on alert that the next thing coming is a free throw. This will help insure your success.

A routine can enable your free throw percentage to rise. If you are inconsistent then your shot will be off. The simplest way to get better at shooting free throws is through constant repetitive motions when shooting the ball. You’ll miss if you don’t have a good routine down.

TIP! Watch the pro’s play if you want to improve your game. Watch pro games on TV, or attend games in person.

When the opportunity arises you always want to take a charge. Taking charges gives you an opportunity to get defensive stops, get the ball and lay the groundwork for fouls. Perfecting this play can really give you an advantage on the court.

Changing your pace is key to keeping the offense on their toes. As you run towards the net, plant your front foot and begin to straighten up. The guard will think you are slowing down and will also straighten themselves. When they do, try pushing forward hard and running right past them.

Maintain a lower position as you play defense. Staying low gives you a better chance to play the ball and helps you move more quickly. Always stay in the proper stance on defense. 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.

TIP! Lifting weights too much can actually take away from your jump shot. Although it’s true that strong muscles are beneficial, additional bulk can impede your ability to play effectively along the perimeter.

To convert the typical 2-3 zone to a trapping machine, get the best pair of defenders available to wait just until the opposing point guard reaches roughly ten feet beyond the mid-court line. Then, they need to run at the point guard to trap him. As your guards are doing this, send your forwards out to the outside opponents. The guard on point should make a pass that can easily be stolen by the forwards.

If you want to build the dexterity of your weaker hand, start using it for everyday tasks like shining your shoes or opening doors. If you’re able to do more with your other hand daily, you can start controlling it better. Your basketball skills will benefit.

If you wish to shoot on the outside better you should work on shooting hundreds of times every day from a lot of places on the court. To help you get even better, practice dribbling the ball and quickly pulling up for a shot. Once in the air, keep an eye on the target. But, be sure not to look at it beforehand. This helps to simulate game conditions and improving your accuracy.

Stop Dribbling

Only stop dribbling if you want to shoot or pass. If you stop dribbling, then you don’t really have that many options. If you opt to not pass or shoot, you’re left with pivoting on your back foot. Then, you will be vulnerable to being double teamed by the opposition, and you are likely to have the ball stolen.

It is important that you remain in control of the ball despite which way your body is going. Dribbling during game play requires you to adopt a variety of dribbling skills. You will have many opponents swarming you. Practice dribbling while leaning in many different directions. By nailing this skill, you have a better chance to avoid a turnover.

TIP! If you are posting up, strategic footwork is important to becoming open and making a good shot. Although a strong presence in the key is important, beating your opponent to good spots on the floor is more important.

Communicating with your teammates is a vital part of being a good basketball player. You are sure to understand that it takes teamwork to play basketball. It is not all about one-on-one offense or defense. Be there for your teammates is important. When everyone works together, you can play better as a team.

After having read this article, you now have a few things that you can go practice. You need to develop confidence and practice consistently. Keep this advice in mind and show your skills off.