Basketball is not an especially complicated sport. You can pick up the basics in very little time. You can always learn more and this article will help you start learning.

Dribble the ball the right way. When dribbling the basketball, use your fingertips rather than the palm of your hand. This helps you to control the ball better. Dribble to your body’s side instead of doing it out front, and bounce the ball at your waist’s level. You should always be looking up instead of at the ground.

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 ultimately determines the winner of a game of basketball.

Make sure to practice your layups whenever possible. You should expect layups to represent about 80% of all the shots you take in a game. When you practice, you need to be able to run toward the basket at full speed, then shoot while jumping in the air. This type of technique will translate well into actual game situations.

Bounce Pass

Practice your bounce pass. In order for a bounce pass to be sufficient, the person should receive the ball around their waist. Remember you should bounce the ball approximately three-quarters of the distance between yourself and the receiving player. There are other variables to consider though.

TIP! Keep practicing your layups. During any game, layups make up about 75 percent of the game.

You want to be prepared for any type of defense the other team plays. While a good chunk of the game will most likely be played in zone, your opponent might flip the switch to man-to-man coverage just to change things up and surprise you. If you have not practiced enough on this scenario, you could run afoul of the scoreboard very fast.

Passing quickly without dribbling is a great way to practice. It is hard to play with no dribbling, but it will help your team make great passes. Keep your emotions in check if quality passing is not happening right away as it takes time to perfect this part of the game.

Maybe you just began learning about playing basketball before you read this. Maybe you have played since you were a little kid. Regardless of your skill level, what you have read will provide you with new information. Use this information the very next time you play.