Have you ever seen yourself as LeBron James, Michael Jordan or some other professional player when playing basketball. Rather than just wanting to be great, why don’t you learn techniques to help you get better? The tips that follow will get you on the path to greatness.

Learn the best way to make your free throws. It looks simple to do, but it isn’t that easy. You should practice as often as possible with this technique. Begin by holding the ball directly in front of your face. Maintain focus on the basket and try to visualize your basketball falling through the hoop. Once you’ve visualized this, take your shot as you just saw it in your head.

TIP! Make sure to dribble properly. Avoid using your palm while dribbling.

You need to keep your balance if you’re shooting. Falling when you make a shot is not the right way to shoot. These shots are improvisational and usually desperate attempts. By focusing on balance in your shot, you will develop the consistency needed to be a great scorer.

Work on catching passes frequently. When you’re practicing, you should drill in being able to catch random throws in addition to passes that are perfect. When the game is going on, every pass isn’t going to make it to its target. Therefore, learn how to catch any type of pass so that you can help lead your team to victory.

Do not practice by playing against the zone defense. Most of the basketball game will probably be played in this zone, but the other team might decide to surprise you and do some man-to-man coverage. Be sure to practice for this eventuality so you will not become rattled and lose the game.

TIP! Get good at making free throws. It looks simple to do, but it isn’t that easy.

A good tip about passing is try doing it without dribbling the ball. This is very hard to accomplish, but it forces you and your fellow players to work on accurate passing skills. Don’t get too frustrated if you’re having a hard time when you start because after a while passes are going to be more accurate.

Try using hand signals to prevent passes in error. Passing is tough, especially if you and your teammate are not in sync with one another. Players should use hand signals often when available for a pass. Without a signal, there shouldn’t be a pass.

One way to get a good understanding of your game is to ask your fellow players about your ability. Can they tell you what you’re really good at? Continue to develop the skills that play into your natural abilities. Find out how your game appears to others and develop your skills accordingly.

TIP! Observing what the professionals do can be a great way to improve your game. Try to go to games, watch televised games, or check out videos of the pros playing.

Hopefully, this article has given you something to think about. You must be self confident, and you must practice regularly. Don’t hesitate to put your skills to the test, and don’t be afraid to change your strategy up every now and then.