It can be hard overstating the love that millions have for basketball. The more you know about the sport, the more enjoyment you’ll get out of watching or playing it. By checking out the advice below, you can learn more about the great game of basketball.

Practice your defense more than your offense. You can win a game, thanks to good defense. While offense seems to get the praise, defense must be stellar in order to win.

TIP! Learn to correctly dribble the ball. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand.

Learn the best way to make your free throws. This looks easy, but it is actually very hard to do. Practice a lot with the following method. Hold the ball level to your face. Keep your eyes on the goal and visualize the ball going into the goal. Then repeat that when you take the shot.

Make sure you are looking forward and looking up as you’re dribbling. If you must look at the ball while dribbling, you haven’t practiced enough. Bring the basketball with you everywhere you go. If you walk to the store, dribble the ball. You will not be able to see what’s happening before you on the court while beholding the ball.

Practice layups often. A huge percentage of successful shots are layups. The best practice strategy is to go full tilt toward the hoop, then do a smooth jump shot. That technique of running and jumping helps you get ready for an actual game.

TIP! Make sure that you practice your layups frequently. Almost 80% of shots will be layups.

Better your basketball skills by watching the pros play. Watch professionals play or go check out talented local teams to see who has the moves that you want to learn. Every player has skills that make them good, and you can work on the skills they use.

If you want to take jump shots, don’t build your arms up too large. It’s possible to have excessive muscles when you play the perimeter. Overdeveloped muscles could actually interfere with your score percentage.

Strong Core

TIP! You can improve your skills by paying attention to how the pros play. You can follow the pros in online videos, on TV and you can also attend a basketball game if there is a pro team in your area.

One of the keys to becoming a great basketball player is developing core muscles. Show them how to exercise their hips, lower back and abs. Without a strong core, a player’s performance may not be as good as it could be. A strong core helps you jump higher and run faster.

Basketball is an exciting game that many people worldwide have come to love. But, without sufficient understanding of the intricacies of the game, newcomers may feel somewhat lost. With any luck, the reader will discover that this article has made them a more effective player on and off the court.