The happiness that basketball brings to so many is really quite amazing. There is so much to learn about basketball, though. Use the following advice to learn more about the game that you love.

Make sure you are dribbling the right way. You’ll want to use your fingertips to dribble instead of using your palm. When you do this you will have more control over the ball. Dribble to the side of your body rather than directly in front of you, bouncing at waist level. Do not look at the ground; look up at all times.

TIP! It is tempting to concentrate just on offense when just staring out, but defensive practice is absolutely vital. Defense is how you win a basketball game.

If you have the ball a lot, learn to execute a crossover. This move entails transferring the basketball from your left hand to your right hand and back again. You have to do this quickly to be good at it. After doing so correctly, a crossover gives you greater control over the court’s flow.

If you want to improve your game, play up your strengths. Your strengths might not make you a star player, but you’ll be contributing a lot to your team. Understand where you excel, and work on those talents until they are perfected.

Do not practice solely against zone defense. Usually, a big part of the game is probably going to be in zone; however, the opposing team can suddenly switch to man-to-man to catch you off guard. If your practice hasn’t included this type of scenario, you might lose control rapidly.

TIP! Practice your layups a lot. Layups account for up to 80 percent of the shots taken during a game.

Hand signals will help you avoid those errant passes. One things that’s frustrating in basketball is passing to a teammate while they try heading to the basket. These common miscommunications can be avoided by utilizing hand signals, which tells the passing player the other player is ready for a pass. No signal, no pass.

If you post up, you need to use good footwork to get open and make sure you get a good shot. You must beat the opposing playing to an open spot. If you are just stepping into position, you now have to secure the spot. Strong footwork skills help to build both types of skills.

One of the most vital attributes one needs to play basketball is quickness. You’ll have an advantage if you’re faster than an opponent. Consistent, repetitive drilling is the key to speed. Don’t play too fast and risk your chances. You will end up in a turnover if you play too fast.

TIP! Ask your teammates what they like about the way you play. Do you do something particularly well? Knowing your strengths and weaknesses will allow you to develop your skills to become an all around better player.

Videotape your games to see what you do right and wrong. You’ll likely see ways that you can improve. Do not waste time criticizing yourself. Just make an honest assessment. You can learn a lot by watching your plays instead of just trying to remember what you did.

The best free throws come as a result of routine. This could mean dribbling twice, shaking out your head to loosen your neck or whatever else makes you comfortable. By developing a quick ritual, you can help train your body to make free throws.

Free Throws

TIP! In order to be your best on defense, take the time to completely understand the player you are guarding. Watch taped games, and keep current with scouting reports.

Build a consistent routine for your free throws. When you stay consistent, you get better success. Practice makes perfect when shooting free throws. If you don’t do the routine right, then the shot won’t make it.

If possible, keep the ball below your knees. This makes it more difficult for your opponents to steal the ball. This also allows you to cover large distances across the court, which makes it difficult for opposing players o block you.

If you’re serious about your game, you should take your diet seriously. To play with great frequency, you will need a large amount of carbs combined with a bit of fat and protein. Good things to add to your diet are nuts and nut butters, chicken, and wheat bread. Avoid sugar and salt when possible.

TIP! It’s great to be quick in basketball. Make an effort to do all things on the court more speedily than the opposing team.

Basketball is great as a mode of exercise as well as a fun spectator pastime. But, to really ensure that you are getting everything basketball has to offer, it pays to get as informed on the topic as possible. Hopefully, this article has provided you with valuable tips for being the best player possible.