Basketball is among the most loved and followed sports in the world. The fans number in the millions. To fully enjoy basketball, whether as enthusiastic spectator or player, you need to fully understand this game. Read on to learn some tips to play the game well and enjoy what it takes to succeed.
Every great player understands how to properly perform a bounce pass. Bounce passes need to be at waist level when received. It’s generally a good idea to pass the ball about three-fourths of the distance between you and the receiving teammate. Many other factors will affect it, too.
A great way to hone your own basketball abilities is to watch the pros. Watch as many games on TV as you can. You are sure to notice the key skills each player has mastered, and from there you can start practicing.
When developing your jumping skills, limit your use of weight-training. It’s possible to have excessive muscles when you play the perimeter. Some overzealous shooting guards buffed up too much, and it had an adverse effect on their overall field goal percentages.
Do not wait for any special season to play some basketball. You may not always be able to find someone to play with you. That is okay. You can still get a lot accomplished with solo games. Work on free throws and pivot moves. You can always practice something.
Keep your eye on the ball. That will keep you aware, so you don’t get surprised by turnovers or quick passes. Also, keep your eyes on areas that open up on the court for an easy basket.
Watch your shoulders if you obtain a shooting slump. If your shoulders aren’t properly positioned, your shot is not going to go in. Keep your shoulders square to the hoop. Your dominant shoulder must be lined up with the rim.
If the opposition is hot on your tail, pass between your legs. This can be practiced by dribbling the ball as hard as you can between the legs while you step in either direction. When you’ve mastered this step, you will be at a great advantage.
Launch your layup jumps from the foot that is opposite the hand you shoot with. Jump off your left foot when you shoot using your right hand. This helps to maintain balance throughout your body and allows you to use yourself as a barrier between the defender and yourself.
Try some drills that require you to move the basketball from one end of the court to the other in no more than five dribbles. You may find this very challenging, but once accomplished it will give you a real edge. It will allow you to execute easy layups.
Take charge when the opportunity presents itself. A charge can help you take the ball and perhaps set up a foul against the other team. Perfecting this play can really give you an advantage on the court.
Basketball is one of the best loved sports in the US, and it is played in many other countries as well. If you are new to the game, the fast pace makes it difficult to follow and enjoy. Hopefully the information learned here has helped you to have a better grasp on how to play better basketball.