The game of basketball has been enjoyed for decades, giving people the ability to have some fun while competing on the court. If you are interested in the game, you must have the proper skills and the right mindset. When you continue reading, you will learn some priceless information.

Learn to correctly dribble the ball. Instead of using your palm to dribble focus on using your fingertips. This allows you to control the ball better. Keeping the ball to your side will help it from getting in the way. Look up, not down.

TIP! It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Basketball games are won because of good defense.

The way to properly dribble is to keep your head up while looking ahead of you. If you have to keep your eye on the ball when you’re dribbling, practice can remedy that. One of the best ways to improve your dribbling is to bring your ball along anytime you need to walk somewhere. Dribble as you walk to the market. If you’re looking at the basketball, you won’t be able to see what is coming at you.

Keep practicing your layups. Layup shots make up nearly 80% of a game’s shots. Whenever you practice, approach the goal full speed, jump and take a smooth shot. Knowing how to run and jump quickly and smoothly will assist you in knowing how to leap and shoot more effectively while playing.

Free throws require both mental and physical abilities. 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 focus on your shot, and you can make it.

TIP! Shooting has much to do with proper balance. While the all-time greats have shown time and time again how they can shoot while off-kilter, this is not the ideal way to score.

Don’t just practice playing against a 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. Be sure to practice for this eventuality so you will not become rattled and lose the game.

If you have a kid that wants to play basketball in high school, be sure they’re working on their core muscles. The core is the following areas: abdominal muscles, lower back muscles and hip muscles. A good core leads to a solid foundation and that is required to be very good at basketball. 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.

Watch your shoulders and their position if you notice yourself developing a slump in your shooting. If your shoulders aren’t correct, you may not be able to make the shots. Shoulders should be towards the hoop. Your shooting arm’s shoulder also needs to be exactly lined up with the rim.

TIP! Practice layups often. A huge percentage of successful shots are layups.

If you have the right tips in mind as you practice basketball, you will find the game becomes easier and more enjoyable. Put in the necessary time to read additional articles, and watch videos. Keep learning more than just this article. Take in as much as you can in order for you to improve your game.