Practicing as much as possible will help you become a better basketball player. Now that you know that, you have to actually know how to practice in the correct way for it to be effective. Use these tips to take your game to levels you never though possible before. You can do it.

Practice hitting your free throws. As easy as these shots may seem, they are rather hard. You should practice as often as possible with this technique. Start out by holding the basketball right in front of you. Focus on the ball and visualize it going toward the goal. Then repeat that when you take the shot.

Practice your layup shot as frequently as possible. Since layups account for the majority of scoring in a game. Dribble the ball in front of you while taking large strides followed by a smooth shot. This method will teach you to improve your jumps and shots throughout the game.

Practice basketball in season and out of season. Sometimes during off season, or when practicing, you can't play as a team or find even a single opponent. That is not a problem. There are many ways that you can improve your game alone. Work on free throws or practice pivot moves. There are always things that can be done.

If you get injured while playing basketball, do not try to play through the pain. Basketball is physically demanding, and injuries are relatively common. Being tough is one thing, but playing through injury can only harm you even further and make the problem much worse. Anytime you have a serious injury, you should seek medical attention.

Boost your defensive abilities by studying the opposing team and its players. You can read scouting reports and watch tapes to evaluate your opponents game. Know which players are left and right handed. Understanding your opponent allows you to effectively play defense. One of the most important keys to being a solid defender is an understanding of your opponent.

If you are shooting as well, pay attention to the position of your shoulders. If they're in a poor position, no matter your skill level, you will be unable to make the shot. Keep your shoulders square in line with the basket. The dominant shoulder must be perfectly aligned with the rim.

Practice your footwork and control the position of your feet at all times. If you step on the baseline, you will be out of bounds. The ball will be turned over on a walking call if too many steps are taken with no dribble action. A foul will result if you try to take a charge or set a pick and your feet are moving.

Look away when you practice passing. This will confuse your opponents. If you can do this correctly, you'll be able to free up time for the person that you've passed to. It can be quite powerful.

It's important to know where you have your feet and also what they're doing. Placing even a single toe atop the baseline while holding the ball will result in you being ruled out of bounds. Taking excessive steps while not dribbling results in a call of walking as well as a turnover. Moving either of your feet when setting a pick, screen, or even take a charge will result in a foul.

A good defensive strategy will keep your opponent on their toes. Do not allow your opponent to become comfortable with their style, or yours. Be assertive and focused within the rules, aggressively keeping your player off balance. Which plays are made shouldn't be up to them. This will give your opponent the chance to run over you. Force them to act and their rhythm will get disrupted.

There are many things you can do to improve your moves (especially if you use the right learn more). Continue to learn new techniques and perfect your skills. It's important to practice to become the best you can be at basketball.

Become a better basketball player even if you know how to play by combining the right p90x equipment package. Trying even a single new thing can greatly enhance your abilities. You can play much better basketball by using the tips provided.