The joy and delight felt by numerous people while watching or playing a game of basketball can’t be overstated. Most people, though, can stand to learn more about basketball. Keep reading to learn more about this great sport.

Many people forget that defense is as important as offense during practice. In the end, it’s defense that consistently wins you games. While everyone focuses on shots made, a good defense can kill the chances of even an amazing shot taker.

TIP! If you want to improve your game, concentrate on your strengths. Your team will benefit more if you stop trying to be the star of the game and work your best.

Learn the mechanics of a free throw. This looks easy, but it is actually very hard to do. Use the following directions to perfect free throws and practice often. Place the ball right in line with your face. Focus on the ball and visualize it going toward the goal. Shoot the ball how you imagine it going in.

To be a better basketball player you should concentrate on the things that make you great. Your talent might not make you a star; however, learning your strengths will help you become a better team player. Realize your limitations, and roll with your talents.

A good tip is to practice your layups on a daily basis. Up to eighty percent of the baskets attempted in a game are layups. It’s critical to practice running towards the basket at full speed and following up with a good jump and smooth shot. Jump to the net and concentrate on shooting the ball in a specific location on the backboard.

TIP! Successful free throwing requires as much mental skill as it does physical skill. You can practice for hours on how to make the shot, but if you over think things or get distracted you will miss every time.

Free throws are as much mental as they are physical. Making the right physical motions is easier than having the right mind set. Relax your mind and keep your concentration centered on the basket to make more of these freebies.

Even professional basketball players spend a lot of time watching other people play basketball. Go to games, watch them on TV and you can also watch videos. Every truly great player has unique skills that you can learn from.

Ask fellow team members what they like about your skills on the court. Do you do something really good? It may be that you are quick on your feet or that you are always there to back them up. Find out what others think your natural abilities are, and be certain to keep developing those skills.

TIP! Better your basketball skills by watching the pros play. Watch pro games on TV, or attend games in person.

You need to be quick to be good at basketball. To get an advantage over an opposing player, you must have the quickest reactions. Playing fast takes practice, though, and steady drilling. But don’t try to go even faster than you actually are. If you try to rush your play, and can’t keep up, you will turn the ball over or make unforced mistakes.

Always be sure of where you’re placing your feet so you’re aware of what they’re doing. If you slide onto the baseline, you will lose the ball for being out of bounds. If you take too many steps and don’t dribble, then you are walking. Moving either of your feet when setting a pick, screen, or even take a charge will result in a foul.

Basketball can be a great sport for play and for being a fan. To make certain to extract the full value of basketball, it pays to spend some time learning all about it. This article has hopefully given you the tips you needed.