Basketball is a great sport beloved by many people around the world. However, it’s not that simple to be the greatest at the game when you first start. Although natural athletes may have an edge, basketball can be happily played by anyone. Read on for tips about basketball.

Work on being able to receive a pass. When practicing, try catching great passes as well as really bad passes. This will help to improve your game when it gets intense. You and your team mates will be happier if you (and they) are more versatile.

TIP! It’s natural to be drawn towards offense as a novice, but the pros know defense is where the game is won or lost. Defense is essential to winning these games.

Practice using different types of defenses. The majority of the game is in that area, but be careful about a team who changes things up. If you are unprepared, you may lose the match fast.

You can learn to trick the opposing team. Try using a back pass! To start, grab the ball using your good hand. Keep control of the ball while it is behind your back. Then you will use your wrist and flip it in the direction you want the ball to be going. This should trick the opposing team.

Never turn away from the ball so that you can always be prepared for what’s coming. Always knowing where the ball is will make sure that you are ready if it quickly comes your way. Always scout the court for areas that will open up and allow you to make a clear shot.

TIP! Try learning how to hit free throw shots. This seems like an easy shot, but it is quite hard.

You can play a great defensive game if you know the opposition well. Monitor scouting news and watch footage of other teams in action. For example, you might look to see which players favor their left side and which have dominant right hands. This knowledge will help you play the best game possible. Understanding the intricacies of the game will make you a better player.

When you work out, try focusing on building core strength and bettering your footwork. Your body will naturally balance well if you have strong core muscles. Work the muscles in your abdomen, back, buttocks and hips. You will improve your speed and footwork if you jump rope like boxers do.

One of the most vital attributes one needs to play basketball is quickness. If you can play quicker than the opposing team can, then you will be at an advantage. You have to be steady as you play quickly. Though, you should never attempt to a play faster game than your abilities permit. If you push too hard, your performance may be haphazard, and the game may get out of control.

TIP! To get better in your basketball game, focus on your strengths. If you can rely on your strengths, you will become a better player.

Try to get the basketball from one side of the court to the other in about five dribbles. This may seem to be too difficult at first, but once you’re able to do it you’ll have a lot of speed and stride length. This helps give your team the advantage, and allows you to drive the center.

You can strengthen you weaker hand by using it as much as possible, for instance open jars or even brush your teeth. If you’re able to do more with your other hand daily, you can start controlling it better. This will help you with your basketball game also.

Your exercise off the court needs to help your game. Running, both sprints and long distance, can help your game. Strength training helps, too. The resulting confidence helps you have more reliable shooting.

TIP! Hitting free throws is a mental challenge as well as a physical one. You can teach your body to make a free throw properly, but unless you are properly prepared mentally, you may not succeed.

You need to practice many types of shots on the basketball court. Practice your grip and balance first. You’re much more accurate if you are balanced well. The basketball’s air valve can be used to aid in perfecting your grip. Cover the valve with your palm, and spread your fingers around the ball.

You should never double dribble. This occurs when you have stopped dribbling, held the ball for a few seconds, and then start dribbling again. If you have already ceased dribbling, your only options are to pass or shoot the basketball. Resuming your dribble is not allowed. Doing so results in a turnover, and your opponent will be given control of the ball.

Make sure you leap for a rebound while in control of your body, and try to land with balance, and you are more likely to end up with the ball. Use both feet to jump up to create more force and quickly snatch the ball, grabbing it with two hands. After getting the rebound, place the ball near your chest and keep your feet shoulder length apart as you land for increased stability.

TIP! Frequent pass catching practice is important. When practicing, try catching great passes as well as really bad passes.

If you are in possession of the ball, learn when you should shoot and when you should pass. You don’t want to be the player that cost your team the game due to your selfishness.

Always pay attention to where the ball goes once your teammate or your opponent sends it out of their hands. Rebounds and recoveries are important parts of a basketball game. It makes no difference if you defend well when the other team misses a shot if you are unable to retrieve the ball.

Do you want to impress your friends with your basketball skills? Or, do you need to practice first? Start being excited and then get motivated to start playing basketball today! In no time at all, your skills we be noticeably stronger as a result of this advice.