Not even the best basketball player knows absolutely everything about the game. Things change on a regular basis and there are different tactics you can use. Do you want an advantage over other players? Continue reading to find out more.
Dribble while your head is up and your eyes are forward. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice. Carry your basketball everywhere. You can practice dribbling when you have to walk to the store. Staring at the ball doesn’t allow you to watch the other players.
If you handle the ball often, you need to learn how to do a crossover. This is when you switch hands while dribbling. It has to be done fast to be effective. Once you master the art of the crossover dribble, you will be able to change directions quicker.
Remember to practice a lot of different possibilities so that you will not limit your game. 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.
Would you like to pull one over on the other team? You should try a back pass. To properly perform this pass you will need to have the ball in your dominant hand. Keep control of the ball while it is behind your back. Pass the ball from behind your back by flicking your wrist in the direction you want the ball to go. It is an effective means of confusing your opponents.
Good footwork is essential to escaping coverage and putting yourself in position to take a shot when you are posting up. You need to have physical presence beneath the net, but you also have to choose the right spot to be in. Once you find a spot, you need to know how to defend it. These skills require solid footwork.
In order to handle the ball correctly, spread your fingers out. This can help you to remain in control of the ball at all times. Don’t let your palm touch the ball either. You should only use your fingers to touch the ball when passing or shooting.
Understand your opponent. One great way to get a better understanding of your opponent is to take the time to watch film and get information from other players or scouts. Figure out which people are right or left handed. Defense is more effective when you know what your opponent is likely to do. Knowledge is power, even in basketball.
Be aware of your own actions and the position of your feet. Just touching the baseline is going to get you called out of bounds. You could also be the reason for a turnover if you get called for walking when you take more steps than allowed without dribbling. Also, moving either foot when trying to set a screen, pick or take a charge results in a foul call.
Free Throw
High percentage free throw shooters typically have the same free throw routine prior to each and every shot. Perhaps you will dribble twice, follow up by bending your knees, pulling your earlobe or performing some other ritualistic action for good luck. Having a consistent routine is ideal, and that helps train your body to know how to be in the proper position every time you shoot the free throw.
Practice looking the other way when passing. Doing this is a great way to confuse your opponents. By looking in the opposite direction, your teammate has a few extra seconds to make the shot. If this is pulled off, then it usually has good results.
Practicing with your weak hand will help to make you a better dribbler. If you’re using both hands to dribble the ball well then you can get by an opponent easily. Immobilize your dominant hand by tying it behind your back, then practice using your other hand for everything. Your weak hand will soon develop better dribbling skills.
Try to strengthen your forearms and hands to better handle the ball. Consider wrist curls and and exercise machine that focuses on strengthening each finger individually. Do not make the mistake of thinking you can stay stationary, catch all the ball, and shoot them from that same location. Learning how to pass the ball ensures that you can get the ball safely to a teammate who has better position on the court.
These tips should give you some food for thought at your next game or practice. We have chosen them specifically to help you become a better player. You should never stop learning new techniques and perfecting old ones. Keep these tips in mind to become a better player.