If you enjoy basketball but don't really understand it, read this article for an overview of the basics. http://www.stuartking.net ! Professional basketball players make the game look so easy. The article that follows will give you some expert tips.

When you are practicing your shooting, make sure that you practice shots that you may be required to make during a game. You should try to shoot the ball while moving around, standing still, and right after you receive a pass. You can have someone toss you a ball while you're running in order to practice taking a shot after the ball has been passed to you.

When you think you have a good shot, take it. This can be difficult to learn. There is a balance between not shooting enough and shooting too often. You never want to miss out on taking a great shot because you are looking to pass, but you do not want to miss on a couple of points because you do not make the pass.

Frequently train yourself on your pass catching moves. You should practice catching errant passes, along with perfectly executed ones. When the game is being played, passes may not be as perfect as we'd like. So you should do the team a favor by knowing how to take in any kind of a pass that comes from someone.

To be successful with free throws, you need to be sure you're taking the best approach. When at the foul line, have your feet about a shoulder's width apart. Now, use both hands to dribble the ball. Bend your knees and and picture the ball going into the basketball as you take your shot.

Watching the pros play is a great way to see how great basketball players use their skills in the game. Watch some games on TV, view videos of professional games, and go to some games. You will quickly notice all the different skills that they have which makes them a great player, then take what you learned and use it to help improve your own game.

In the off season, it is important to stay in shape so you can be at your best when the games begin again. Formulate a few goals, but make sure they are goals that you can actually reach. For example, jogging may be a part of your routine. Start slow and then increase your time as your endurance goes up. You are more likely to stick with your program this way.

Picking the right basketball shoe can be very important to your game. If you need support for your ankles, choose a high top sneaker. Make sure that the sole of the shoe has enough traction to prevent slipping. Always buy a shoe that is the correct size by having your feet measured at a sporting goods store.

When you play basketball, be sure that you remain properly hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after playing. Becoming dehydrated can negatively affect your game and your health. It is possible to lose up to 2% of your body weight through dehydration. That can also cause between a 10% and 20% decrease in your athletic performance.

The basic requirements for a basketball game are relatively modest. A handul of players, a solid court, and a net are the only things needed to play. Knowing the basics will enable you to play better. This article has provided you with some great tips, and you need to keep practicing in order to master them.