How to Spin a Basketball on Your Fingertips

An audience will usually stand in awe of anyone who can spin a basketball on his fingertips. The trick seems to defy gravity. Once you understand the basics, however, you can execute the trick yourself. All it requires is the correct use of balance and speed, much like riding a bike. After learning the basics, practice until you learn how to manipulate the ball and keep it on your fingertips.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the ball in your dominant hand against your chest. The palm of this hand should face you with the thumb pointing up.

    • 2

      Grab the ball with your other hand so that the ball no longer rests on your chest. This hand is positioned between the ball and your chest, directly across from the opposite hand, thumb down and palm out.

    • 3

      Pull your arms in opposite directions quickly. Keep your arms level instead of pulling the elbows down. This makes the ball spin parallel to the floor. If the ball spins at an angle, you will not be able to balance it on your fingertip.

    • 4

      Toss the ball straight up as you spin it. The ball should reach its peak just above your eyes.

    • 5

      Place the middle finger of your dominant hand underneath the basketball, in the middle, as it reaches its peak. Bend your finger slightly and follow the ball downward to about your chest.

    • 6

      Spin the ball with the opposite hand. The faster the ball spins, the better you can keep it under control.