Not even the best basketball player knows absolutely everything about the game. Things change all the time and you have to know that you have to learn more about the sport all the time. Would you like to have a competitive edge? The following article will give you some great advice to improve your game.

TIP! Watch your form while you dribble the ball. Proper dribbling technique involves use of the fingertips, not the palm of the hand.

One of the most important skills when playing basketball is balance. Your knees should be bent with your feet slightly wider than your shoulders. They are professionals, and they are able to improvise successfully. Non-professionals should focus on having good balance to ensure good shots. As time passes, you will make more and more baskets with this method.

A great way to bolster your basketball ability is to observe those who are considered to be the best in the sport. Go to games, watch them on TV and you can also watch videos. You will notice great skills from different players that you can practice.

TIP! Remember to practice a lot of different possibilities so that you will not limit your game. While you might see a zone defense mostly, a team can switch defenses to man-to-man quickly in order to confuse you.

Prior to basketball season, and even during it, you can play solo games. You may not always be able to find someone to play with you. No problem! There is much that can be accomplished when playing on your own. You can practice many different techniques, such as your free throw routine. Many things can be practiced.

Don’t let the ball go behind your back. You have to be aware of what is going on with the ball at all times. Always scout the court for areas that will open up and allow you to make a clear shot.

TIP! Before, during and after the season, play out games by yourself. Sometimes you cannot find a team of people to play basketball with.

If you want to correctly handle the ball, you need to know where to place your fingers. This keeps it under control. Don’t let your palms touch it. The only things that should touch the ball are your fingers, as you shoot or pass.

When you’re trying to work out, you should build up your core strength while getting your footwork perfected. When you have strong core muscles, your body will be better balanced and will move faster. Concentrate your efforts on the back, abdomen, buttocks and hips. Jump rope like a boxer to improve your fancy footwork.

TIP! If you experience a basketball injury, don’t keep playing. Basketball is very physical and there’s always a risk of injury.

In order to perfect your layup shooting technique practice, take off with your left foot if you shoot with your right hand and vice versa. Thus, if you use your right hand for shooting, you need to push off using your left foot. Your body will be better balanced and moving in the direction of the basket. Your body will also be kept between the defender and yourself.

Hopefully, these great tips have given you confidence. They are intended to make you a better overall player. Just keep learning and practicing to stay at the top of your game. Keep these tips in mind and be the best basketball player you can be!