Basketball was created by Dr. James Naismith (1891). Since that time, the game has become supremely popular the world over. People of all ages love the sport of basketball. Many basketball players enjoy a celebrity status, thanks to their skills. If you’d like to play just like them, continue reading.

Look forward when dribbling. By focusing your sight on the ball, you cannot be fully aware of your surroundings. Take the ball with you wherever you go. Dribble on your way to school. Get used to looking up as you go so that you can focus your attention on the court and not on your hands and the ball.

TIP! It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Defense ultimately determines the winner of a game of basketball.

You should often work on your layups. Layups comprise approximately 80 percent of all shots. During practice you want to get up enough speed to quickly get to the rim then easily lay the ball towards the hoop. This technique helps improve your on-court layup skills.

Making free throws are almost as much a mental part of the game as they are a physical part. Training your body is important, but you also have to be mentally ready for the shot. Relax and focus on the net, and you’ll be able to make more.

You can improve your passing skills by practicing a simple drill where dribbling is forbidden. It is quite challenging to play the game without dribbling, but it does make sure you and your teammates make accurate passes. Keep your emotions in check if quality passing is not happening right away as it takes time to perfect this part of the game.

TIP! Make sure to dribble properly. Don’t use your palm to dribble, but use your fingertips instead.

Asking for feedback from coaches and teammates about your playing is important in order to become a stronger player. Is there something that you excel at? It could be your speed, or it could be your back-up abilities. When you find out what they think, you may learn a lot.

You can improve your control of the ball by spreading your fingers. This keeps it under control. Avoid putting your palm on the ball, too. When you’re shooting or passing, the only place the ball should touch your hand is on your fingers.

Focus on your footwork and your core strength in your workouts. A strong core allows you to be more balanced during games. Focus on your hip, abdomen, and back muscles. Just like boxers, you can improve your footwork and speed by jumping rope.

TIP! If you want to improve your game, concentrate on your strengths. Your talent might not make you a star; however, learning your strengths will help you become a better team player.

A good way to see yourself playing is to have someone record your games. Did you spot something that could be improved? Don’t get yourself down about your performance, but stay honest with yourself concerning where your game needs some work. Analyze your skills honestly so you can become the player you want to be.

Good footwork will help you get rebounds off your teammates’ foul shots. Be aware that the defender who is below you will start moving in your direction. Slip past him, and you can get the ball. This helps you avoid the foul call and also grab the rebound.

Perform drills in which you move the ball up the court in just five dribbles. This may seem quite difficult at first, but once you’ve gotten the hang of it, you’ll have great speed and stride length. This is a vital skill to give you points on fast break opportunities.

TIP! There is a lot of pressure when shooting free throws. With everyone watching, it can be easy to allow the pressure to interfere with your game.

A regulation basketball game consists of just ten players. If you desire to play well, you need quality information. This piece provides a good beginning, so keep working and improving.