Do you know everything you want to know about the popular game of basketball? It’s not just you! Having a guideline to the game can make basketball more enjoyable for you. This article is packed with basketball tips.

TIP! Many people forget that defense is as important as offense during practice. Many times, defense actually wins the game.

You must become knowledgeable about hitting a free-throw shot. This looks easy, but it is actually very hard to do. Practice frequently using these techniques. Start by holding your ball before your face. Use visualization to imagine the goal occurring. Then, shoot the ball using the trajectory you pictured.

Dribble while keeping your head upward and looking ahead. You should never be looking at the basketball while dribbling. Take you ball with you everywhere. Dribble while walking to the store. By looking forward instead of at the basketball, you are able to see the happenings on the court.

TIP! Teach yourself how a bounce pass can be properly thrown. This means your pass should be aimed towards the receiving player at the level of his waist.

Make layups a part of your daily practice regimen. In a typical game, up to four-fifths of all shots are layups. Run as fast as possible, while jumping and performing a smooth shot. If you can do this right, you can master this shot.

Improve your passing abilities by challenging yourself to perform drills without actually dribbling. Playing basketball without dribbling is very challenging, but your entire team will quickly improve their passing skills. Keep your emotions in check if quality passing is not happening right away as it takes time to perfect this part of the game.

TIP! You should practice pass catching regularly. While you are practicing, you should be sure to drill yourself on catching errant throws, as well as catching those perfect passes.

Lay off the weights if you are trying to become a jump shooter. Strong muscles are certainly useful for basketball, but you can overdo it if you plan to play on the perimeter. You might see a decrease in your goal percentages if your biceps become too large.

How would you like to trick the opposing team? The back pass is perfect for this. To accomplish this pass, grasp the ball using your dominant hand. Pull it behind you. Finally your wrist should be flicked towards where you want the ball to go. This should be helpful in tricking them team.

TIP! You may have better luck honing your passing skills if you forgo dribbling during practice. Passing drills with your team is important for accurate passes during game time, and you can try doing them without dribbling at all.

If you’re posting up, good footwork is the key to getting open and getting a good shot. You must be certain to get the good spot ahead of your opponent. You need to be sure your spot is secure. Both of those skills rely on solid footwork.

If you aren’t shooting the ball well, you need to concentrate on your shoulders. Shoulders are the key to a consistently successful shot. Your shoulders should always be squared towards the hoop. You should also make sure that your dominant shoulder is lined up with the rim.

TIP! If your son or daughter wants to play high school basketball, they need to work on core muscle training. This includes their abs, lower back, and hips.

Have someone record the games you play so that you can watch it to check out your form. You’ll likely see ways that you can improve. When looking at the tape, don’t be too critical, but be honest. There are times when it pays to view yourself realistically.

Free Throw

TIP! Keep your eye on the ball. This will help you stay on top of quick changes in possession or plays attempted by your opponent.

A solid routine is necessary for improvement in free throw shooting. Inconsistency does not make a better shot. The most effective method to achieve a great free throw is by practicing it repeatedly until you get it right. If you don’t stick to your routine, you could miss the shot.

In summary, basketball is a sport that you love but really weren’t sure why until you took in this article. However, after you’ve gathered additional knowledge about the game through this article, maybe you feel like getting out on the court and being a pro yourself. Now, use these tips and get on the court!