It is so easy to learn basic basketball. That’s probably why it is so popular. The basics of basketball can be learned in a matter of minutes. However, you can always learn more to improve your game, and this article will give you some tips to get started.

If you handle the ball often, you need to learn how to do a crossover. A crossover happens when you switch hands the ball is in. Your crossovers should be fast, which is why it is important to practice them. Once you master the art of the crossover dribble, you will be able to change directions quicker.

TIP! Would you like to pull one over on your opponents? Back passes are a great way to confuse other players. Hold the basketball with your writing hand.

Balance is essential to shooting. You’ve seen the pros fall out of bounds when trying to shoot 30 feet from the basket; this is a bad move. They are not doing it right. Having a good foundation under you while shooting will always yield better results over time as you keep on practicing and honing your skills.

Are you interested in being able to fool the other team? Consider the back pass. Hold the ball in your strong hand to start the pass. Now hold the ball behind you. Lastly, flick your wrist in the direction that you want the ball to land. This should should thoroughly fool your opponent.

When avoiding errant passes, use hand signals. It is very frustrating when a teammate isn’t open for the perfect pass. A simple hand gesture can let your teammate know you’re ready for the pass. If the player does not flash the signal, then the player can avoid an errant pass.

TIP! One good way to always be ready for whatever happens on the court is to never turn your back on the ball. This will make you more aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes.

Asking for feedback from coaches and teammates about your playing is important in order to become a stronger player. You may have a certain skill that you have perfected. Perhaps you are quick footed, or you are always ready to lend a hand on the court. Develop your strengths even further and look for ways to improve your weaknesses.

If you want to correctly handle the ball, you need to know where to place your fingers. This can help you avoid losing it when you hold it. In addition, keep your palm off of the ball. Whether you are passing or shooting the ball, your fingers are the only part of your hand that should be touching the ball.

When you’re trying to work out, you should build up your core strength while getting your footwork perfected. This allows your body to be in balance and be more explosive on the court. You must work out your hip, back and abdomen muscles. To help get even quicker and have better footwork you can jump rope.

TIP! When your shooting isn’t accurate, check out your shoulder position. No matter your skill level, you won’t make shots if your shoulders aren’t in the proper position.

Always be aware of the locations of your feet and what they’re doing. An errant toe to the baseline while holding the ball will result in an “out of bounds” call. More than three steps will cause you to get called for travelling. Also, moving a foot when setting up a screen can result in a foul.

To become a better free throw shooter, use the same routine prior to every shot. Focus on your shot and eliminate all outside distractions. By developing a quick ritual, you can help train your body to make free throws.

Never break your defensive stance when playing ball. You can shuffle your feet to either side, or push with your opposing foot, so you will be ready and in position. Keep your feet from crossing to make it hard for your opponent to get by you.

TIP! Always be aware of where you have your feet and what you are going to do with them next. Stepping your toe in a baseline with a ball in your grip will mean that you’re out of bounds.

Trip up the offense by constantly changing your pace. While you run at the net, plant the front foot and start straightening your body. The guard will assume you are reducing speed and will do the same. You should push and get past them as they straighten themselves.

To get better at three-point shots, work on shooting from the NBA three-point line. High school lines, International standard lines, and college lines are closer. By learning to shoot from NBA distances, you improve your range tremendously.

While you dribble, alternate your momentum from your left to right side. You’re going to be dribbling in many different conditions during a game. While the court may be open at times, this only means you’re likely to get swarmed. It helps to master control of your body as you dribble in a variety of positions. In this way, you can escape all kinds of difficult situations.

TIP! A good way to see yourself playing is to have someone record your games. You may see things differently as you observe the game and notice things you missed in the game.

Perhaps you have been just began to play basketball before reading this great article. You may have started playing when you were a small child. Either way, you can benefit from the information contained within this article. Put these tips into action and you are sure to become a more effective player.