Are you reading this article because you wish to get an edge on the basketball court? If so, then you’re about to find out some very helpful information. Make sure you pay attention to the following advice so that you can make improvements to your style of play. Remember as well to always have fun!
Crossovers are key for ball handlers. Being able to dribble the ball with both hands and crossover between the two will make you a better player. This must be done quickly to be successful. By having the ability to move either way quickly, you will become a better all-around player.
When you have the ball, make sure you change your direction frequently. The entire court is open to you, and it is important to take advantage of that fact. As you move to the right or the left, make sure you shift your weight accordingly to have the easiest experience moving with the ball.
When rebounding, start moving as soon as the shooter uncoils. When you react and move quicker, you better anticipate their moves and get more rebounds. When they start to uncoil, start contact by blocking them out. Make sure to do the same thing on offense since the shooter will most likely try to uncoil after the rebound. This can boost your number of rebounds.
When learning to dribble, you need to learn to dribble with both hands. This is important because you may have to switch hands when dribbling during a game. Also, learn to dribble behind your back and between an opponent’s legs. This may seem silly, but you may actually use this technique.
Be careful not to travel when dribbling the basketball. Traveling occurs when you take too many steps in between dribbles. It’s most likely to happen when going up for a shot. Just one extra step will mean the difference between a score and a turnover, so practice shooting as often as you can.
Jump on the ground and dive for those loose balls. Don’t be afraid to hit the ground hard and get a little hustle on. Not only will this help the team, but the coach will surely notice your improved effort. Team moral is always a good thing to keep in high numbers.
To become a better dribbler, work on becoming more flexible. The looser and more flexible you are, the better you will be able to elude defenders. Stiffer players are easier to defend. The more flexible you are, the harder it is to defend you. So to improve your dribbling, you need to improve your flexibility.
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.
Never throw the basketball at another player. Even if you are angry or aggravated, it’s never smart to take your anger out with the ball. Not only will you draw a foul, you can also do some serious damage to the person you are throwing at. Take a breathe before you do anything stupid.
Using the information that has been discussed here, you should be able to see that your game has improved. You can’t just expect to do it all at once, but of course you’re going to have to practice. Keep trucking, and put in the time. You have to work hard at basketball in order to be good.