Basketball is a very easy game that’s played all over the world. The players all work together to lead their team to victory. The following article will help you improve your basketball skills.
Don’t just practice playing against a zone defense. While much of the game is played in zone, the opponent can flip to man-to-man coverage, changing everything and surprising you. If you are unprepared, you may lose the match fast.
Don’t just practice offense. Unlike some other sports, basketball players need to play both offense and defense constantly. There are no breaks in the game, and a great shooter can negate his or her benefit to the team by being a very poor defender. You need to become good on both ends of the court.
If you’re posting up, good footwork is the key to getting open and getting a good shot. There are two important points you must remember. You must create a physical presence below the basket, and you must secure a good spot in advance of your opponent. You need to be sure your spot is secure. Footwork is the key to either of these.
Remember that refs don’t see, catch or call everything. You’re going to get fouled sometimes and not hear the whistle. Just remember that works both ways. You will also get away with some fouls that aren’t called. Respect the refs, but remember that they don’t determine the winner and loser.
To get a jump shot off without having it blocked, release it at your nose or even higher. If your release point is at your chest or even your chin, it is much easier for even a shorter defender to block it. A higher release point means that your shot is more likely to go over that defender.
When you’re playing basketball, make sure that you dribble with your head up. If you feel that you have to look down every time you dribble, then you need more practice. Try to practice dribbling all over the place when you can without looking to get better at it. Watching good point guards can help since they always look forward and around when they dribble.
It is important that you learn to dribble the ball without staring at your hand as you do it. If your eyes are always on the ball, you can’t see who is around you. That will leave you open to having the ball stolen by a defender when you are least expecting it.
Hold the basketball during TV time at home. Any contact you have with the ball will only improve your skills. You are essentially teaching your hands how to work with the ball. How to hold it, move with it, and even toss it. The more time you get with the basketball, the more comfortable you will be.
Everyone that’s trying to play basketball is going to need to learn some skills so they can play better. This article offered up a bevy of ideas and insights to help you support your team. Read it again if necessary; just be sure to use the tips provided here.
