Do you enjoy basketball, but think that you don’t know much about it? You’re not the only one! People want to be as good as the pros, but don’t know how. Read on to find out some pro tips that you can use.

Crossing over is a vital skill to have for handling the basketball. Moving the ball from hand to hand is a crossover. If order for the maneuver to be a success, it has to be performed with speed. Once you master the art of the crossover dribble, you will be able to change directions quicker.

Basketball Player

To be a great basketball player you need to work on your balance. We have all seen the professional basketball player falling out of bounds and making a basket from 30 feet away, but this is not proper technique. Taking a shot when you are off balance will probably lead to a turnover. If you have correct balance when you are making a shot, you will make more consistent baskets over time.

Focus on your strengths to get better at basketball. Your team will benefit more if you stop trying to be the star of the game and work your best. Know the things you’re great at and keep practicing until there is no one better than you.

TIP! If you handle the ball often, you need to learn how to do a crossover. Switch from one side to the other while dribbling.

If you want to take jump shots, don’t build your arms up too large. It’s important to be strong, but not too strong. As a shooting guard, having bulky arm muscles can actually reduce the number of successful shots.

Prior to basketball season, and even during it, you can play solo games. Sometimes during off season, or when practicing, you can’t play as a team or find even a single opponent. This is just fine. There is much that can be accomplished when playing on your own. Work on free throws or three pointers. You can always do something.

In order to get a good shot, you must use good footwork. While physical positioning is important, it is even more essential to move quicker than an opponent. Once you have gotten into position, secure your spot. These will both require powerful footwork.

TIP! Free throws require as much mental focus as physical skill. You can practice for hours on how to make the shot, but if you over think things or get distracted you will miss every time.

A smart tip to follow while playing basketball is to always keep your eye on the ball and not away from the play. You will enjoy greater court awareness and avoid feeling surprised by rapid changes in game play. Also, keep your eyes on areas that open up on the court for an easy basket.

After all is said and done, you probably love basketball and needed to learn a little more about it. Hopefully, you’ll be ready to jump in and start playing now! So go out and recruit a few friends for a friendly game of basketball and show off your newly learned skills.