Every Basketball Player Has To Start Somewhere

Feb-26-2017

Practicing as much as possible will help you become a better basketball player. That said, what's the point in practicing when you aren't doing it right in the first place? The tips that follow here are going to allow you to make your goals more often and teach you other things as well.


You should practice your crossovers a lot. Moving the ball from hand to hand is a crossover. That action has to be done fast to be successful. Once you have learned how to do a crossover, you can travel down the court quickly.


Start out with proper balance before attempting to take a shot. You have seen some crazy shots made by professionals, but these shots aren't going to be based on fundamentals. They have just improvised, is all. If you have correct balance when you are making a shot, you will make more consistent baskets over time.



To get better in your basketball game, focus on your strengths. Even though your best abilities might not make you stand out each game, it is sure to help you contribute to the overall success of the team. Understand where you excel, and work on those talents until they are perfected.


Make sure to practice your layups whenever possible. Four out of every five shots taken in a given game will be layups. The best practice strategy is to go full tilt toward the hoop, then do a smooth jump shot. Like everything, practicing at game speed will only improve your skill and have you ready to play at the fastest pace.


Basketball players of all ages benefit from exercises that strengthen their core. Hips, abdomen and back must be worked on. These muscles form a bridge across the lower and upper parts of your body. When the core is weak, it is difficult to coordinate the movements of both halves. Strong core muscles help you with many movements associated with basketball.


Quality footwork will help you get better shots. Although it's important to have a physical presence underneath the basket, it's more important that you get in a good place before your opponent can. When you are in position, you must secure your spot. Solid footwork can make both of these things happen.


One of the best ways to play a strong defensive game is to know your opponent. You can read scouting reports and watch tapes to evaluate your opponents game. Keep track of which players are right hand dominant and which are left hand dominant. When you know your opponent, you will be better able to play an effective defensive game. Strong defenders are knowledgeable defenders.


Focus on your footwork and your core strength in your workouts. If the core muscles are in good shape, you will feel lighter on your feet. Work the muscles in your abdomen, back, buttocks and hips. Just like boxers, you can improve your footwork and speed by jumping rope.


You want to always be aware of foot placement and what you're doing. You want to make sure you don't step over the bounds by even a teeny bit. Taking a lot of steps when you're not dribbling means you're traveling and that's a turnover call. Moving your feet as you are setting a screen or pick usually results in you being called for a foul.


Whether you simply enjoy basket or live, breath, and eat the sport, you are sure to find value in what you've read. Start out with a single tip and expand upon each idea as you progress. You will notice an improvement along the way. You will become a better passer, rebounder and shooter.