Even the greatest basketball players alive do not know absolutely everything there is to know about the game. Strategies change and new ideas crop up. Do you want to dominate your opponents? Keep reading so that you’re able to find that edge you desire.

Learn how to hit a free throw shot. There are usually a lot of distractions when you are shooting free throws so you need to concentrate. Practice this technique regularly. Start out by holding the basketball right in front of you. Focus on the basket and picture the ball slipping into the net. Bend your knees to control the arc of the ball.

TIP! A bounce pass is essential to learn. Bouncing the pass to the receiver should be at their waist.

It is vital that you learn to crossover the basketball while dribbling. Moving the ball from hand to hand is a crossover. It has to be done fast to be effective. Crossovers can help you get out of a tight spot.

Work on improving your strengths to become an even better player. Your team will benefit more if you stop trying to be the star of the game and work your best. Focus on the skills you have and work to make them better.

Make sure that you practice your layups frequently. Up to eighty percent of the baskets attempted in a game are layups. Run as fast as possible, while jumping and performing a smooth shot. That technique of running and jumping helps you get ready for an actual game.

TIP! Connecting on your free throws is as much mental as it is physical. It’s easy to physically train for a free throw, yet mental preparation is also needed.

When developing your jumping skills, limit your use of weight-training. It’s possible to have excessive muscles when you play the perimeter. Many guards in the pros have developed their arm muscles too big, which has really harmed their shooting percentage.

Interested in tricking your opponents? Back passes are a great way to confuse other players. You want to grip the basketball with your strongest hand. Keep control of the ball while it is behind your back. Flip your wrist towards the site where you want the ball to go. This should trick the opposing team.

Make sure, no matter what else happens, you can see where the ball is. You must always be prepared to receive a pass and you need to know where players are on the court. Keep your eyes open for areas that are open.

TIP! A great way to learn how to pass is by doing drills often with no dribbling. Playing the game without the use of dribbling is a challenge, but it can help you and your team learn to make more precise passes.

To properly handle the ball, you have to spread your fingers out. The ball will not get away if you always keep your fingers spread when handling the ball. Don’t let your palm touch the ball either. Fingers should be the only point of contact as you pass or shoot the ball at its target.

Hopefully you now feel more confident about taking the court after reading these helpful tips. They are intended to make you a better overall player. Practice daily and continue learning. Bring your game up a notch or two and keep this advice close at hand.