Do you find basketball interesting enough that you would like to learn more about it? There are others in your shoes! Lots of folks watch basketball without really understanding the game. This article is packed with basketball tips.

Practice shooting free throws. It seems easy to do but surely isn’t. Use the following directions to perfect free throws and practice often. Start out by holding the basketball right in front of you. Then, look at the ball and visualize it going in the basket. Then repeat that when you take the shot.

TIP! Improving your balance means improving your shots. While the all-time greats have shown time and time again how they can shoot while off-kilter, this is not the ideal way to score.

Make sure you dribble properly by keeping your head held up, facing forward. Looking directly at the ball means you aren’t good at the game yet. Take the basketball to all the places that you go. Practice in your home and wherever you walk. Staring at the ball doesn’t allow you to watch the other players.

Making free throws are almost as much a mental part of the game as they are a physical part. Without a strong mindset, your body simply goes through the motions to take the shot. Take a deep breath, relax and imagine you are at practice to help yourself make the shot.

Accurate Passes

TIP! Pay attention to what you are good at. Your strengths might not make you a star player, but you’ll be contributing a lot to your team.

One great way to pass good is to drill when you can without dribbling. It’s hard to play without dribbling, however, it can help you and your team create more accurate passes. It may seem nearly impossible at first, but over time your team will learn to throw accurate passes and be in good position to receive them.

If there’s no one around to play with, it is okay to play a basketball game by yourself. It is possible to enjoy this team sport even in the absence of your team. This is just fine. You are able to do a lot with solo games. Work on free throws and pivot moves. You don’t need other players to work on your skills.

You never want to have your back to the ball if you can help it. That will keep you aware, so you don’t get surprised by turnovers or quick passes. Scan the court looking for openings to make a basket.

TIP! Practice the skill of pass catching. When you’re practicing, you should drill in being able to catch random throws in addition to passes that are perfect.

You can improve your control of the ball by spreading your fingers. That makes it less likely that you lose control of the ball. Additionally, the palm of your hand should not come into contact with the ball. When you’re shooting or passing, the only place the ball should touch your hand is on your fingers.

Now you should know all about how to play basketball like a pro and enjoy it. But you’ve now got some great tips and new ideas, so you’re ready to put some of them into play! Follow this helpful advice to get started playing basketball.