Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, enjoyed by millions in many different countries. No matter how much experience you have with the game, there is always something else you can learn. If you want to improve your skills on the court, keep reading for some great advice.
Get good at making free throws. The free throw shot might seem simple, but it can actually be pretty difficult. Try using this technique in practicing. Hold the ball level with your face. Then, look at the ball and visualize it going in the basket. When you shoot, keep the visualized trajectory in mind.
Always follow through when shooting. A great way to practice is to hold your follow through until the ball goes in the basket or misses. This will give you some clues on why you missed a shot or where you need to strive for consistency. Watch how other players follow through and follow their lead.
Learn how to turn on your pivot foot when stopped with the ball. Being able to pivot is an important skill to learn. If you’ve pulled up your dribble, you can no longer take any steps forward. That means your back foot can’t move. But you can pivot on it to face different directions and fake out an opponent. It can help you out of a jam.
It is important that you protect the ball if you have it. Dribble to the side to ensure that no one can steal it from you. If no one is nearby, you can dribble in front, but be sure to take it to the side if someone approaches you or you go for the net.
If you aren’t shooting the ball well, you need to concentrate on your shoulders. Whenever your shoulders aren’t in a good position, you simply will not shoot well, regardless of your skill level. To help improve your shot, focus on squaring up on each of your shots. Try to line your dominant shoulder up with the rim.
One of the most vital attributes one needs to play basketball is quickness. Try to play faster than your opponents for an advantage. You have to be steady as you play quickly. Do not try playing faster than you can. If you push too hard, your performance may be haphazard, and the game may get out of control.
Master the stop and shoot. Basketball is so much about movement that sometimes the most effective manner to get clear of an opponent is to surprise them with no movement at all. Master dribbling up court fast and when you hit a mark you’re comfortable with, stop short, pull up and shoot. Your opponent will find it tough to stop their forward movement, so you’ll have a clear look at the basket.
Now that you have read this article, you have learned some great techniques for becoming a better basketball player. Maybe you just play for fun, or maybe you play more seriously. Maybe you are even a professional! No matter who you are, you can profit from the tips you have just read.
