Learning to play basketball is an extremely fun and beneficial opportunity. Maybe you already play with a group of friends or maybe you are considering trying out for a local team. The following ideas are tips that the professionals practice each and every day. If you want to play in the big leagues, you have to learn how the big leagues play.
If you are in a good position to receive a pass, put your hand up in the air so the current dribbler can see you. The basketball court is surprisingly small when you’re actually on it. And when you’re playing in a game filled with ten people, there’s a lot of chaos going on in that small space. Sometimes that hand is necessary so that the dribbler sees the option.
As you develop your ability to shoot a basketball, try practicing on one foot only. This will improve many areas of your play, including accuracy when shooting. As you get better, move to practicing your shot from greater distances. Only after you master the basic techniques will you truly get better at long distance shots.
If you have a kid wanting to play basketball in high school, be certain that they are properly training their core muscles. Show them how to exercise their hips, lower back and abs. The core links both the lower and upper extremities. Without a strong core, they will have limited athletic performance. Building strong core muscles will allow your to jump higher, run faster and maintain your balance.
Never leave the practice court without taking some practice shots. Do some free throws, lay-ups and 3-point throws every practice before you leave. Of course you are doing some shooting during practice, but this additional practice will help you in the long run. Keep practicing your shooting on a daily basis.
Picking the right basketball shoe can be very important to your game. If you need support for your ankles, choose a high top sneaker. Make sure that the sole of the shoe has enough traction to prevent slipping. Always buy a shoe that is the correct size by having your feet measured at a sporting goods store.
Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. Learn to play to your strengths and practice to improve your weak points. Not everyone on the team can be the guy who scores every point. Your position may be better suited on the defensive end. You can only learn these things through practice and play.
Keep your hands active. Use a deflective hand high to block shots and intercept passes. Use a ball hand low to block low passes and try to poke the ball away from your opponent. Always swipe your hand up when playing the ball. Swiping down at the ball could result in a foul.
Success in basketball is now a step closer than it was before. You can now head onto the court with confidence in your knowledge of the sport and its mechanics. Use the tips you have read here to surpass the other players and become the team star. Nothing is holding you back.
