If being a great basketball player is something you have wanted, you surely realize the commitment it requires. But even if you’re just play basketball for the fun of it, you would like to be better at it, wouldn’t you? These tips will help you become a much better basketball player.
Balance is important when shooting. You’ve seen the pros fall out-of-bounds and shoot a basket up to 300 feet away, however, this isn’t proper technique. Professional basketball players tend to improvise when need be. You should have proper balance when making your shots, and over time this will lead to consistently making baskets.
Successful free throwing requires as much mental skill as it does physical skill. You must be mentally strong to be a consistent free throw shooter. Stay relaxed and just focus on the goal and you will increase your free throw rate.
Completing passes to your teammates is just as important as dribbling the ball. It is hard to play a game when you don’t dribble, but it will help you to be sure that everyone is passing accurately. Don’t be frustrated by how hard it is at first; you will get used to it.
A great way to stay prepared at all times is to always face the ball. You will enjoy greater court awareness and avoid feeling surprised by rapid changes in game play. Be vigilant to detect openings or weaknesses that make it easier to take the shot.
The key for controlling the ball well is to spread your fingers. That will ensure that it doesn’t get away from you as you hold it. Keep your palm off the ball too. Your fingers must be the only things contacting it when you shoot or pass the ball at the target.
Be aware of your own actions and the position of your feet. If you fall on a baseline, you will be out of bounds. Going too many steps with no dribbling is a waking call and turnover situation. Moving either of your feet when setting a pick, screen, or even take a charge will result in a foul.
Look away when you practice passing. This is a great way to fake out your opponents. When it’s done properly, it will cause the opponents to go to the wrong area so that you can pass to someone that has a good look at a basket before shooting. This play can be very powerful.
To land your layups, jump off the foot opposite the hand you shoot with. Thus, if you tend to shoot with the right hand, make sure to jump off with the left. This will keep your body properly balanced with forward momentum.
If you want to dribble the basketball better, you need to practice dribbling with your weaker hand. It will be much easier to blow past your opponent if you can dribble with both hands. You can focus on the strength of your weak hand by tying your dominant hand behind your back. In no time, the weak hand will also be useful for dribbling.
Workout to increase flexibility and strength in your hands and forearms. Wrist curls can work good if you wish to start handling the ball like you’re able to dribble in any situation. Basketball requires its players to move quickly, shoot accurately and pass well. Motion is key to being successful on the court.
Be slick with your feet so you can get a rebound from a teammate. Guards will be attempting to stop you, so get around them. This gets you the rebound without you committing a foul.
Prevent the opposing team from stealing the ball by dribbling hard. The harder you dribble, the faster the ball will return to the cup of you hand. When someone is right on top of you, pass the ball instead of dribbling.
You need to prepare for action, using the strategies that have been discussed here. You’ll see small improvements daily while remembering these tips and practicing them. If you work hard on your game, it’ll get better every day.
