Even the best professional doesn’t know everything about basketball. The sport is evolving, which means that even after you’ve become an expert, there’s more to learn. Do you want to have a hand up? Continue reading in order to gain that competitive edge.
Make sure that you’re dribbling the ball correctly. Proper dribbling technique involves use of the fingertips, not the palm of the hand. Doing so will allow you a greater degree of ball control. Also, dribble off to the side instead of in front. The ball should bounce no higher than your waist. Keep your eyes up.
You should practice your crossovers a lot. This technique passes the ball back and forth from the right hand to the left hand. The action must be very swift if it is to be successful. When executed properly, a crossover dribble lets you alternate directions suddenly so that you can move down the entire court quickly.
Focus on your strong point to help you become a better ball player. If you can rely on your strengths, you will become a better player. Know what you are good at, then practice it until you’re absolutely perfect at it!
Teach yourself how a bounce pass can be properly thrown. Bouncing the pass to the receiver should be at their waist. Letting the ball bounce close to the other person will help the accuracy of your pass. There are other variables to consider though.
Observing what the professionals do can be a great way to improve your game. You can do this by watching games in person and on television. You’ll see that every great player has specific skills that cause them to be great and you have the opportunity to practice what you’re watching them do.
If you’re going to be a jump shooter, don’t lift too many weights. Muscle strength is great for any position in basketball, you can have too much when it comes to perimeter play. As a shooting guard, having bulky arm muscles can actually reduce the number of successful shots.
Play basketball games with yourself during the season and before it. Even if you can’t get a bunch of people together to play, you can still practice on your own. That’s fine. You’ll still be able to get a lot done when playing solo. Practice pivoting and free throw shooting. There is always something to practice.
Core Muscles
Children who aspire to become great basketball players in high school must engage in physical fitness activities that focus on the core muscles. Core muscles include hips, abs and the lower back. The lower and upper extremities are linked by the core, and athletes with a weak core will exhibit limited performance. Building strong core muscles will allow your to jump higher, run faster and maintain your balance.
In order to get a good shot, you must use good footwork. You always want to beat your opponent to the open spot. Once you’re in the proper position, you’ll have to then secure your spot. Solid footwork can make both of these things happen.
Never try to push through pain after an injury. Basketball is physically demanding, and injuries are relatively common. Pushing through the pain often results in a more serious injury. If an injury is serious, go to see a physician.
Understanding the opponent is key in beating a tough defense. Watch games if you can and look at their tendencies. Know which team members are right handed and which ones are left handed. When you know some of the other player’s moves, you’ll have a leg up during a game as you’ll be able to predict what he is going to do. Strong defenders are knowledgeable defenders.
Speed is one of the best virtues when playing basketball. Developing speed and vision is vital to playing the game well. If you want to play the game fast, you need to drill continuously. However, don’t try and push past your limits. If you play basketball past your own speed ability, then you can lose control of you game with bad passes and needless turnovers.
If your opponent is pressing hard, you can give yourself some room to work by dribbling the ball between your legs. Refine this skill by bouncing a ball with force between the legs while stepping backwards or forwards. Mastering this move can help give you an advantage on the court.
Stay low when playing defense. This stance will keep you ready for whatever comes your way. Remain in a good defensive stance always. If you need to block someone’s shot, quickly get back into your stance.
Now you know how to be king of the court. These tips were written to better your game. Don’t quit learning about basketball, and always keep practicing. Keep these tips in mind and take your skills to a whole new level.