What is there to know about the game of basketball? How do you become a great player and be able to show appreciation for the game? This article provides you with a great base of knowledge about playing basketball, so reading it should bring you amazing benefits when you next hit the court.
It is not always necessary to dribble the ball. In fact, you should only dribble it when it is part of your play. For instance, you will want to dribble the ball when you are trying to get the ball up the court, to get in a position for passing, or to get the defense off you.
Learn how to be patient and trust your teammates during games. Many players fall into the trap of not passing the ball and trying to do it all themselves. You need to trust them and pass the ball. This is a team sport and passing is part of what helps your team win games.
If you play serious team basketball, jump rope for thirty minutes before practice sessions. You’ll get used to playing basketball already winded and tired. Doing this can make you very prepared to make shots in late game situations, as your conditioning is already a notch above anyone else just showing up to practice.
Try yoga to improve your basketball game. You might not want to tell your teammates about it, since some of them are going to likely laugh. However, the increased flexibility and agility you get helps prevent injuries or at least leaves able to get back up quicker when you get knocked down. Don’t laugh; Kareem Abdul-Jabaar used it to extend his NBA career.
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.
It can help you when you pass through your legs. This can be practiced by dribbling the ball as hard as you can between the legs while you step in either direction. This technique can really throw off defenders.
Three pointers are a very attractive part of a basketball game. One way to achieve making more three-pointers is by using a drill where you start five feet away from the goal. Once you hit a net shot from there, move back a few feet until you hit another net shot. You keep moving back until you’re on the three point line, and of course you should be jogging for conditioning purposes as well.
As with almost all sports, good mental conditioning is as important as physical conditioning. It is a good practice to use deep breathing exercise before a game to get yourself in the proper frame of mind. A clear mind, focused on the game, is less likely to make mental errors during a game.
To shoot a basketball outdoors, you have to be ready for the conditions. On the blacktop, the wind can send your shot off, so as you start shooting around beforehand, get used to factoring that wind in by aiming to one side or the other. This will boost your accuracy.
Move without the basketball. Running the baseline has advantages. You can possibly lose your defender in the paint for a second and become open. At the very least you might distract the ball defender’s attention for just a second. Even if you can’t get open, set a screen for who has the ball.
Pay attention to who has the hot hand. If a player on either team makes more than two or three consecutive baskets they are “on fire” as the saying goes. If they’re on your team, do what you can to make sure their streak keeps going to help your team. If it’s an opponent, put a little more defensive pressure on him.
Continuously dribble the ball until you have an opening to pass it to one of your teammates, or you are prepared to shoot. After you halt the dribble, your options become quite limited. If you decide not to shoot a basket or pass the ball on, you are only allowed to pivot on the heal that is furthest back. That leaves you wide open to double teaming by your opponents and the potential of a stolen ball goes way up.
Remember that your diet has a great affect on your basketball performance. Increase your intake of carbohydrates to boost energy levels. You should also consume protein and a limited amount of fat. Good additions to your daily diet include whole grain bread, lean chicken and nuts. Avoid using excessive sugar and salt.
If your opposition is headed to grab a rebound, get in front of them. Place your forearm on their chest and bump them out of the way with your hips. Be careful not to hurt them, but gently push them away from the ball so that you can grab it instead.
Remember and repeat the mantra BEEF. This means BALANCE, Keep your with EYE, get your Elbows where they need to be and then FOLLOW THRU with the shot. Knowing BEEF can help you automatically get the right stance to be able to make the shot you are trying to make.
Be confident in your abilities. Take opportunities when they are presented to you, particularly when it comes to shooting the ball. However, remember that you do not want to be a ball hog. The more you play, the better feel you will have for when you should take a shot and when you should not.
Do you now know the answers to your questions? Are you pumped to take your new skills to the court? Has this article given you the feeling that you’re able to become a better player? Practice what you’ve learned, and you will soon see the results.
