Basketball is a remarkable sport because it allows you to achieve great things with only a few simple skills. You can pick up the basics in very little time. However, there are many advanced techniques that can be learned. Continue reading to learn the how you can become the best player.

You must become knowledgeable about hitting a free-throw shot. This is one of those shots that seem easy but in real life are difficult. Practice this technique regularly. Begin by holding the ball directly in front of your face. Then, look at the ball and visualize it going in the basket. Then try shooting the ball along the trajectory that was in your mind.

A good tip is to practice your layups on a daily basis. Layups account for up to 80 percent of the shots taken during 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.

Learn how to turn on your pivot foot when stopped with the ball. Being able to pivot is an important skill to learn. If you’ve pulled up your dribble, you can no longer take any steps forward. That means your back foot can’t move. But you can pivot on it to face different directions and fake out an opponent. It can help you out of a jam.

To stay hydrated while playing basketball outside on a hot day, make sure you drink plenty of water or sports drink before you head outside, and take a bottle with you. When you sweat, you not only lose water, but you lose electrolytes and sodium. Sports drinks like Powerade help you replace those and keep your edge on the basketball court.

Always know what spots on the court players are good at scoring from. You want to know this about yourself so you can make high percentage shots. You want to know this about teammates so you can pass the ball to them when they are in a killspot and open. When possible, know this about opponents in order to defend them better.

Want to try a drill which will really work you out? Try dribbling with two balls at once! This will help you learn to master dribbling with both hands, plus it will build your arm muscles very quickly. You can’t use your eyes for this exercise, so you will learn to dribble without looking at your hands.

The only way to become a better basketball player is through practice and hard work. Anyone can better their skills, but in order to truly succeed and be better than other players is by improving your skills. It doesn’t take much, all you need is a hoop, a ball and desire to become better.

Even though dribbling movement should start with the feet and below the knees, finish or follow through the movements with your whole body. The right combination of eye and arm motions can actually throw your defender off for even a half of a second, giving you the daylight you need to make a play or pass.

Have a good support system off of the court and appreciate their efforts. Whether it is your parents who support you by bringing you to games and financing your necessities or it is the sponsors who support your team, they all contribute to a winning team and should be acknowledged and appreciated.

Maybe you recently started playing basketball. Or, maybe you have been playing ball since you were little. Either way, this information improves your playing skills. Be sure to use this advice when you have to play basketball next.