It’s no secret why basketball is so popular: the pace is fast, causing excitement. However, in order to play basketball to the best of your ability, there are some things you need to know about. This article has some tips you can use to get better at the game.

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 won because of good defense. While everyone focuses on shots made, a good defense can kill the chances of even an amazing shot taker.

TIP! Many people only direct their attention to the offensive part of the game without realizing that defense is the key to winning. Basketball games are won because of good defense.

When you dribble, look forward, keeping your head up. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice. Take the ball with you wherever you go. Dribble as you walk to the market. By looking forward instead of at the basketball, you are able to see the happenings on the court.

Bounce Pass

Learn how to throw a proper bounce pass. In order for a bounce pass to be sufficient, the person should receive the ball around their waist. Aim for a firm bounce pass that hits the ground around 3/4 of the distance between you and the intended player. Of course, there are factors that should be taken into consideration when passing using the bouncing technique.

TIP! Free throw practice is vitally important. This is something that seems simple, but in reality it can be hard.

Be sure to watch professional games to learn some great tips and tricks to improve your game. Watch as many games on TV as you can. Every player has a skill that allows him to succeed. Practice their moves to become better.

Practice catching passes often. Try to catch all of the passes that are thrown to you. When the game is going on, every pass isn’t going to make it to its target. Learning how to catch these errant passes will put you at an advantage.

A good way to improve team passing to use a no dribbling drill, that is to play the game without dribbling at all. Playing without any dribbling is very hard, but builds your passing skills. Try not to lose yourself in frustration if you do not master it immediately, with the more time that passes with you and your team practicing, the more accurate they will become.

TIP! Learn to crossover if you get the ball often. Crossovers involve moving the ball from hand to hand.

If you are good at shooting the ball then the last thing you want to do is lift weights. Though muscle strength is great to have with any sport, it is very possible to be too buff for serious game play. Certain pro guards ended up increasing their arm size so much that their shooting started to suffer.

A smart tip to follow while playing basketball is to always keep your eye on the ball and not away from the play. It’s all about court awareness, and always facing the ball will make it so you are less surprised by passes. That means less turnovers. Pay attention to open areas for passes, too.

When you work out, try focusing on building core strength and bettering your footwork. This allows your body to be in balance and be more explosive on the court. The most important muscle groups include your back, stomach, and pelvic region. Jump rope like a boxer to improve your fancy footwork.

TIP! If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. You might not have star ability, but you can be an outstanding team player.

It can help you when you pass through your legs. This can be practiced by dribbling the ball as hard as you can between the legs while you step in either direction. If you get this down, you will have a major advantage on the court.

In order to perfect your layup shooting technique practice, take off with your left foot if you shoot with your right hand and vice versa. This means that if you shoot with your right hand, take off from your left foot. This gives you better balance, while keeping you poised toward the basket.

Free Throw Shooting

TIP! You should often work on your layups. Layups comprise approximately 80 percent of all shots.

A solid routine is necessary for improvement in free throw shooting. Inconsistency does not make a better shot. Free throw shooting is best improved by lengthy sessions of repetitive practice. You’ll miss if you don’t have a good routine down.

A good drill to try is the five dribble drill. You try to get the ball the entire length of the court in only five dribbles. This may not seem feasible, but once you master it, your speed and stride will be truly impressive. You will find that it becomes easier to score and make layups.

One of the best ways to always be in proper defensive position is to never break out of the defensive stance. Keep your feet moving to each side or push your opposing foot off so you can keep yourself in position. Always keep your feet from crossing, and you will make it hard for any opponent to get past.

TIP! Don’t just practice your game against the zone defense. The majority of game play might take place in the zone, but that doesn’t mean that the opposing team will not try to catch you off guard.

Make sure you stay in a constant rhythm until it is time to make your move. Consistent dribbling disrupted by a sudden, fast pace will surprise your opponent, giving you the advantage. Perfecting this can make you nearly unstoppable on the court.

As you have learned, basketball is enjoyed by a lot of people in the world. You need to know more than just the basics in order to play ball like a pro. Follow these tips to enhance your game and play at the top of your ability.