New Tips To Improve Your Basketball Game

TIP! It is important to focus on both offense and defense when learning to play basketball. Defense is what stands between you and a win.

Millions of people love the game of basketball. You need to know all about it, though, if you want to play the sport or just watch it. Read this article to gain the knowledge that will make watching or playing the game more fun.

TIP! You need good balance when you shoot. While the all-time greats have shown time and time again how they can shoot while off-kilter, this is not the ideal way to score.

Focusing on the offense may come easily but you need to be able to focus on the defense as well., Defense can make or break a basketball game. Offense receives all the glory, but it is nothing without the best defense.

TIP! Observing what the professionals do can be a great way to improve your game. Try to go to games, watch televised games, or check out videos of the pros playing.

Learn proper dribbling. Don’t use your palm to dribble, but use your fingertips instead. This helps you to control the ball better. Dribble to the side of your body rather than directly in front of you, bouncing at waist level. Look up, not down.

TIP! In order to get a good shot, you must use good footwork. While actually being beneath the basket is key, establishing a good position prior to the opposition is even more so.

Always dribble with your head up and looking forward. Anyone who watching the ball while they dribble surely needs to spend more time in the gym practicing. If you are just getting started, bring your ball with you everywhere. Dribble as you walk down the street. If you have to watch the ball, you will be unable to see whatever is going on at court level.

TIP! Have your team mates critique your playing skills. What are your your best skill areas? Perhaps they see you as someone who is fast on the court, or that you’re a really good teammate.

Practice your layups a lot. During any game, layups make up about 75 percent of the game. During practice you want to get up enough speed to quickly get to the rim then easily lay the ball towards the hoop. Jump to the net and concentrate on shooting the ball in a specific location on the backboard.

TIP! Turning away from the ball can be a costly mistake in basketball. You have to be aware of what is going on with the ball at all times.

Basketball is enjoyed by people all over the world. You will find the game more enjoyable after you read this article and gain a basic understanding of how it works. Use the skills and practice habits you read about here to take your game to the next level. You can be a real “baller.”