One round, orange ball. One tall net with a backboard. Ten players per team. A passion for the game of basketball. This is what you need to play, but you also need a great knowledge to play well. Continue reading to find out all you can about the ins and outs of basketball.

When you’re dribbling the ball, you should avoid looking down at the ball. You should be able to dribble without staring at the ball. If you can dribble without seeing the ball, you’ll be able to keep your eyes on the rest of the game. This will help you to know who is open for a pass or if you have a chance to take a shot.

Improving your flexibility will greatly help you during a game. If you’re flexible, you’ll be able to move around defenders better. Flexibility will help you to move better when you’re being blocked. You’ll be able to do more moves than others which will result in you getting the change to score or pass freely without being blocked.

Learn the best way to make your free throws. This kind of shot seems easy, but it really is not. Practice regularly and employe the technique that follows. Start with the ball ahead of your face. Keep your eyes on the goal and visualize the ball going into the goal. Next, shoot with just the trajectory you saw.

Every shot should have an arc. The ball should arc at the highest point, then began descending toward the goal. This arc helps keep the ball on course. Learn how to consistently shoot using the same arc for best results. As you practice, you will learn what works best for you.

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.

Practice as many different shots as you can. You never know when you will need one during a game. If you only practice bank shots, then you will feel less comfortable making a 3-point shot or a lay-up. Practice them all and you will see improvements in all of your shots.

A good way to practice sound passing is to drill without dribbling. It is a challenge not to dribble while playing, but it will ensure the accuracy of your team’s passes. Even though this is not an easy drill, you will be rewarded for your efforts during game time.

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.

Always keep your head up while dribbling. You will not be able to see an open teammate if you are looking at the ball. You also will not be able to see what kinds of defenses the opposing team is playing if you are looking at the ball while dribbling.

While you likely already have the passion, and the ball, you also need the knowledge to be a successful basketball player. With this article already under your belt, you are ready to start using its tips. Continue checking out other expert articles to learn more so you can better your game.