Basketball is more than a game for gym class. It can be played at a park or even in a cul de sac in the neighborhood. If your passion is basketball, take the time to read the following article to learn more about the sport.
Make sure you are dribbling the right way. Don’t use your palm to dribble. Instead, use your fingertips. This allows you to control the ball better. Keep the ball by your side as you dribble instead of right in front your body. Always look up and never look down at the ground.
Completing passes to your teammates is just as important as dribbling the ball. It is a challenge not to dribble while playing, but it will ensure the accuracy of your team’s 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.
If you get hurt during a basketball game, don’t try to play while in pain. It’s a challenging sport that’s very physical, and you have the ability to get injured. Playing through an injury can prolong it which is always bad. See a doctor if the injury is serious enough.
Never have your back to the ball so that you’re ready for anything in a basketball game. This helps you become aware of the court and lowers chances for surprises from turnovers and quick passes. Also, you need to stay aware of areas which might open up and give you an easy basket.
As you perform your fitness routine, make it a point to target your core and your footwork. Your body will maintain balance and move more quickly when your core muscles are strong. Your hip, buttocks, back and abdomen muscles need to be worked on. You will improve your speed and footwork if you jump rope like boxers do.
Always be aware of where you have your feet and what you are going to do with them next. An errant toe to the baseline while holding the ball will result in an “out of bounds” call. The ball will be turned over on a walking call if too many steps are taken with no dribble action. Do not move your feet when attempting to set up a screen, a foul can be called.
To help you shoot better free throws you need to come up with a consistent routine. Inconsistency will ruin your shots. The most effective method to achieve a great free throw is by practicing it repeatedly until you get it right. If your routine is off, then you will miss the shot.
Using a weaker hand helps improve overall dribbling skills. Getting by an opponent should be a lot easier if you can dribble using both hands. Immobilize your dominant hand by tying it behind your back, then practice using your other hand for everything. In no time, the weak hand will also be useful for dribbling.
Try to strengthen your forearms and hands to better handle the ball. Wrist curls can be great for honing ball handling skills. Never assume you can just stand somewhere, catch and then shoot. You have to be ready to move fast and change directions on a dime.
A good drill to try is the five dribble drill. You try to get the ball the entire length of the court in only five dribbles. While this is a challenging goal, working toward it will make you a much better player. It can mean easier lay-ups when dealing with fast breaks and it can help your teammates for just a moment.
No matter what type of basketball game you like to play, the better your skill level, the more you will enjoy your game. You’ve taken the time to read this article, now go one step further by making use of it. If you learn new skills, your game will improve.
