Surely basketball was unfamiliar territory when you first took up the game. There is more to the game that learning to shooting, dribbling and passing. Now you may feel that you know quite a bit about the game. In this article we will strive to share new and different ideas with you, no matter how skilled you are.

It is easy to be focused on offense when you are learning how to play basketball, but you really should focus your practice on defense. Defense is how you win a basketball game. Offensive skills are usually the most impressive ones but defense is something every team should work on.

TIP! Work on pass catches. When you’re practicing, you should drill in being able to catch random throws in addition to passes that are perfect.

Learn to correctly dribble the ball. When you dribble a basketball you have to use the fingertips instead of the hand’s palm. This allows you to control the ball much better while you dribble. Also, dribble off to the side instead of in front. The ball should bounce no higher than your waist. Keep your head up and do not look at the ground.

When dribbling, make sure that you look forward and keep your head up. By focusing your sight on the ball, you cannot be fully aware of your surroundings. Make the basketball an extension of your body, taking it wherever you are. Try dribbling even when walking to a store. Maintaining unbroken visual contact with the ball makes it difficult to be aware of your surroundings.

To get better in your basketball game, focus on your strengths. Even though your best abilities might not make you stand out each game, it is sure to help you contribute to the overall success of the team. Know the things you’re great at and keep practicing until there is no one better than you.

Free Throws

Making free throws are almost as much a mental part of the game as they are a physical part. Of course, you can show your body how to make free throws. However, if you’re not in the right state of mind, you won’t succeed. Stay calm and collected to increase your free throw percentage.

If your child is training to be a high school basketball player, make sure that they train their core muscles properly. They should train their lower back, hips, and abs. The core connects the lower extremities to the upper extremities. Without a strong core, your performance may be limited. By developing a strong core, your legs will follow suit.

TIP! Practice playing by yourself. These skills all help with muscle memory so you know just what to do when you’re playing in a game.

When posting up, solid footwork is essential to getting yourself into position to shoot. Although a strong presence in the key is important, beating your opponent to good spots on the floor is more important. Once you have a location, it is important that your feet are firmly planted there. Strong footwork skills help to build both types of skills.

Don’t play when you are injured! It’s a challenging sport that’s very physical, and you have the ability to get injured. You can quickly turn a strain into a debilitating medical issue if you do not take a break from the action. Anytime you have a serious injury, you should seek medical attention.

You never want to have your back to the ball if you can help it. This can help you to avoid surprises by fast passes, help you keep an eye on the rest of the court, and allow you to spot potential turnovers. Make sure you also have the court in your line of vision as well, so you know when and where you can drive in for the score.

TIP! To make sure there are no errant passes, use hand signals. One of the more frustrating aspects of basketball is making a pass to a teammate at the same time they head to the basket.

Watch your shoulders if you obtain a shooting slump. If they’re in a poor position, no matter your skill level, you will be unable to make the shot. Your shoulders should be facing the hoop. The shoulder that is dominant should be perfectly aligned with the hoop rim.

With all of the fabulous advice you’ve received, only you stand in your way. Practice, run drills and play often. Make use of these good tips to improve your strategy and become the player you have always dreamed of being.