Basketball is more than just a game you run around in gym class. It is possible to play this at home or in the neighborhood and even on your driveway. If shooting hoops is your thing, then more information on the subject will help you improve your game play.
You can easily focus on offense when learning to play basketball, however, you must really focus how playing defense. Defense is what wins basketball games. Offense receives all the glory, but it is nothing without the best defense.
Crossovers are key for ball handler. This move entails transferring the basketball from your left hand to the left hand. The action must be done quickly if it is going to work. When executed properly, the crossover dribble helps you alter directions and go down the court faster.
Make sure that you practice your layups whenever possible.Layups account for up to 80 percent of every 5 shots in basketball. Run as fast as possible, then smoothly jump and shoot. This method will teach you to improve your on-court layup skills.
You have to know how to bounce pass properly. Bounce passes should not go above or below the receiving players waist. One good rule of thumb is to bounce the ball around three quarters of the way to the other player. There are other things to keep in mind, though.
Teach yourself how a bounce passes correctly. A bounce pass that’s good is going to end up hitting the other player at waist level. A good estimation is to target the ball to bounce roughly 3/4 of the distance to the receiving player is. There are many factors which come into play, however.
Free throws require both mental as physical. Stay relaxed and just focus on the goal and you will increase your ability to make free throw rate.
When playing a game of basketball, have a friend tape the game. This way, you can take a look at your game. Can you see where you can improve your form? Are there things you might have done differently? Be honest with yourself but don’t be too harsh. This gives you an unfettered view of how you actually performed on the court, rather than relying solely on your memory of the game.
A good way to hone your own basketball game up to speed is to start trying to see how the pros.
A good tip about passing is to drill without dribbling. It is hard to play a game when you don’t dribble, but it will ensure the accuracy of your team’s passes.
In order to be successful with layups, the foot that is opposite from shooting hand is the one you should take off from. This means that if you shoot with your right hand, take off from your left foot. This way you keep your body away from defenders, your momentum going in the direction of the basket and your body stays balanced.
Never have your back to the ball so that you’re ready for what’s coming. This keeps you aware of the court and you won’t be surprised when turnover potentials come up or quick passes. Keep an eye open for areas that are open.
To become a great free thrower, make sure to keep a consistent pre-shot routine. This might mean that you dribble the ball twice, bend your knees, bend at the knees, or do anything else. As long as this is a quick set of movements and it’s consistent, it becomes easier for your mind and body to prepare for the shot.
Build up your forearms to become a better ball handler. Exercises that involve strengthening the wrist are especially helpful for dribbling. Don’t believe you will be able to simply plant yourself someplace, receive the ball and sink a shot. You must move the ball to have things happen.
To maximize your layups, leap from the opposite foot from the hand you use to shoot. This will keep you balanced with forward momentum.
You must disrupt and upset the play of your opponent’s game when you’re playing defense. Don’t let them get comfortable out there on the court. Be aggressive in the moves you execute your moves. Do not let them call the plays to make.
You need to take a charge anytime you can. This allows you to get the ball back for your team, setting up a foul. Not only that, your opponents may become confused or frustrated and stop playing their game plan.
Don’t allow your feet get crossed and opposing players will have difficulty getting around you.
To get better at three-point shots, make sure you attempt shots from where the NBA three-point line would be. The standard line in every other league is closer. If you’re able to get the shot from where the NBA shoots, your open looks will have deeper range than defense will mind you until you begin hitting.
When you dribble, bend your knees. Standing straight will make you see that it’s harder to handle and easier for the opposing players to take. Bending your knees will make a big difference in the way you can control the ball.
Don’t discontinue dribbling until you get ready to shoot or pass. You have few options remaining to you stop dribbling. If you decide that you cannot shoot or pass the ball, you are only allowed to pivot on the heal that is furthest back. This makes you open up to people that want to double team you and try get the ball away from you.
Try practicing your dribbling while switching the momentum from side to side. This will help you learn to dribble during games frequently.You may see an open court but there are opponents swarming you.You have to be able to lean and still dribble while you’re working with your body leaning. This allows you to get yourself out of jams.
Do not stop dribbling unless you’re going to shoot or pass. The instant you stop the dribble, your options become limited. If you decide not to shoot a basket or pass the ball on, you are only allowed to pivot on the heal that is furthest back. You leave the ball vulnerable to possible steal attempts and yourself open to being double teamed.
No matter whether you want to play some casual basketball or play in a more organized way, you’ll benefit by improving your skills. Since you’ve devoted this time to reading this article, the next step is to take these new skills out to the court. If you can better your game, why not do so?