The basics of paying basketball are not really hard to learn. Basic techniques can be learned in a couple minutes. This advice helps you further your basketball skills.

Keep your head up when you dribble. You need more practice if you feel that you cannot dribble without focusing on the ball. If you are just getting started, bring your ball with you everywhere. Dribble the ball when you’re walking to the shops. By looking forward instead of at the basketball, you are able to see the happenings on the court.

TIP! A lot of novice players mostly focus on their offensive skills, but developing good defensive skills will help you become a better player. Basketball games are often won by the defense.

Shooting has much to do with proper balance. You’ve seen the pros fall out-of-bounds and shoot a basket up to 300 feet away, however, this isn’t proper technique. They are going with the flow when this occurs. If you are able to improve your sense of balance, then you will find that your percentage of successful shots improves.

Professional Games

Be sure to watch professional games to learn some great tips and tricks to improve your game. Watch some games on TV, view videos of professional games, and go to some games. Every truly great player has unique skills that you can learn from.

TIP! Put the emphasis on your strengths can help you to be a better basketball player. Your talents might not make you a star, but when you make the most of your strengths, you might better contribute to your team.

Good footwork remains a vital part of basketball. Although a strong presence in the key is important, beating your opponent to good spots on the floor is more important. Once you have gotten into position, secure your spot. Strong footwork is key.

Find out what your teammates like most about how you play? What do you need to focus in on and practice more? You may be quick with your footwork or are always there for backing them up. See what others view as your own natural skills, then be sure you retain and develop them more.

Understanding your opponent is a good way to shut him down on defense. Review tapes and keep up with scouting reports. Remember which player shoots left and which shoots right. Defense is more effective when you know what your opponent is likely to do. Strong defenders are knowledgeable defenders.

TIP! Don’t just practice your game against the zone defense. Zone play will be important, but man-to-man will pop up from time to time, too.

If your shooting is suffering, take a close look at your shoulders. When your shoulders are not properly positioned, then it is almost impossible to perform at your best. Ensure that you line up your shoulders so that they are squared with the basketball net. The shoulder that is dominant should be perfectly aligned with the hoop rim.

To improve ball handling, consider focusing workouts on your forearms and hands. Try doing some wrist curls as they are particularly effective in honing your dribble skills. Don’t ever believe you’re going to be able to stand still, receive a pass and take a shot. It is essential to move the ball around in order to succeed.

You might be a complete novice at basketball. Perhaps you were good at basketball already. Regardless of your skill level, what you have read will provide you with new information. Use the knowledge you have gained to step up your game and become the best basketball player that you possibly can.