Basketball tricks and tips

Are you looking to up your basketball game?  Basketball is a great way to relieve stress while engaging in little friendly competition.  And, if you've ever played it before, you know it's loads of fun!  We aren't all cut out to be professional basketball players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant, but you can still have a great time on the court!  Most local basketball camps offer multiple basketball courts where you can play a full court game, a 1 on 1 game, or just shoot around as practice.  If you're looking to learn a few tricks for your next pick up basketball game, we are here to help!

For one thing, it's important to handle the ball well when it is in your possession.  Always dribble the ball steadily and watch out for your surroundings – you never know when an opponent may pop up out of nowhere to steal the ball back. 

The two most common mistakes players make when in possession of the basketball is double dribbling and traveling.  Be sure not to make these rookie mistakes when playing against more experienced players unless you want to get booed off the court!

One frequent mistake rookies make is touching the ball with their palm instead of their fingertips.  This may make you feel like you are more in control, but the ball needs to be handled lightly with your fingertips rather than your whole hand. 

There are tons of ways to dribble the ball, all of which you should practice until you feel absolutely comfortable.  Once you get used to the feel of dribbling the basketball, then it will be time to learn a few fancy tricks.  Changing your pace while dribbling the ball often trips up and confuses your opponent, giving you the advantage.  Your opponents will think you are slowing down, but you can pick the pace right back up before passing the ball to another one of your teammates.

The rules of basketball, are honestly forthright and clear. Yet, for the new players, some instructions can be forgotten.

When you get really good, you'll even be able to dribble behind your back and dribble two basketballs at once!  Experience is the best teacher, so be sure to get out onto the courts at your local playground or summer basketball camp to learn all there is to know about the fundamentals of playing basketball.  Good luck!