Do you know everything you want to know about the popular game of basketball? A lot of people don’t fully understand the sport. Having a guideline to the game can make basketball more enjoyable for you. Read on and get the great tips that all the pros use.

Try learning how to hit free throw shots. This seemingly simple shot can be difficult to execute under game conditions. Practice this technique regularly. First, keep the ball in front of you and at eye level. Eye the basket and imagine the ball swishing down into it. Then throw the ball just as you had visualized.

TIP! You must learn how to dribble, how a crossover is done and other important ball handling skills. This is when the ball is moved from hand to hand.

When dribbling, make sure you hold your head high and look straight ahead. If you are looking at the ball for any reason while dribbling, you have not put in enough practice. Take the basketball to all the places that you go. Dribble as you walk down the street. If you look at the ball, you’re unable to see what’s going on down the court before you.

Improving your balance means improving your shots. Even though a professional can hit all sorts of crazy off-balance shots, it is not the ideal method of shooting that you want to learn. They have just improvised, is all. Consider proper balance when you shoot, and eventually you’ll consistently make baskets.

Successful free throws require you to be mentally and physically strong. You may know how to make a free throw but if your focus is off, then you will miss. Relax and focus on the basket; this will help you succeed.

TIP! Any good basketball player needs to know how to make a layup. Layups comprise approximately 80 percent of all shots.

You can improve your skills by paying attention to how the pros play. Whether seeing an all-pro on YouTube, attending a game in person, or sitting on the couch with buddies to watch your local professional team, there are many chances to observe the best. Every player has skills that make them good, and you can work on the skills they use.

Practice playing by yourself. Though basketball is surely a team sport, there may be times when you have nobody to play against. It’s okay! You can accomplish a lot by practicing alone. Work on free throws or practice pivot moves. You can always hone your skills when practicing alone.

Hand signals will help you avoid those errant passes. One of basketball’s most frustrating elements is the concept of sending a quick pass onto a teammate who has just moved in a different direction. A simple hand gesture can let your teammate know you’re ready for the pass. If no signal is displayed, a pass ought not be made.

TIP! Do you want to fool the other team? Trick them using a back pass. Use the dominant hand to hold onto the basketball when trying this pass.

Never play through an injury on the court. It’s easy to be hurt when playing basketball. By “playing through the pain” you take a huge risk that the injury will become much worse. Visit a doctor if you think it’s serious.

Ask teammates what they admire about your playing skills? Do they feel you are really good at something? You might be quick, or you might always be around to support them. Learn what the other people around you see while you are playing and it may open your eyes to new areas for practice.

Turning away from the ball can be a costly mistake in basketball. Always knowing where the ball is will make sure that you are ready if it quickly comes your way. When your eyes are constantly assessing the game, you will be better able to make easy shots.

TIP! Try using hand signals to prevent passes in error. It can be frustrating passing to a teammate when you’re both heading to the basket.

To properly handle the ball, you have to spread your fingers out. This can help you avoid losing it when you hold it. Additionally, the palm of your hand should not come into contact with the ball. The only things that should touch the ball are your fingers, as you shoot or pass.

Speed is one of the best virtues when playing basketball. You need to be faster than the opposing team if you want the advantage. Consistent, repetitive drilling is the key to speed. Just don’t play any faster than you’re able to. You will end up in a turnover if you play too fast.

Work on your 3 point shot by shooting from the established NBA distance. All the other three point lines are much closer than the NBA line. If you make your shots from where the NBA players shoot, you will improve your skills and increase your range.

TIP! If your shooting is in a slump, take a look at your shoulders. If you do not have your shoulders positioned properly, you will not make the shot.

The bottom line is that while you may like basketball a whole lot, it may be that you lacked some key information about it before today. Hopefully, you’ll be ready to jump in and start playing now! So, go on and get a game started so you can use this helpful advice!