How to Get Better in Basketball

Basketball is a sport that incorporates skills such as shooting, passing, dribbling and rebounding, and is played at both recreational and competitive levels throughout the world. The objective of the game is to outscore the opponent, which is simple enough, but mastering certain skills requires dedication and lots of practice.

Things You'll Need

  • Basketballs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Improve your ball-handling. Stand at one end of the court with a basketball in each hand. Start walking toward the other end and bounce the ball in your right hand. As the ball hits the ground, start bouncing the ball in your left hand. Repeat this over and over again as you make your way down the court. Increase your speed as you grow more comfortable. Eventually, you should be able to do the drill while sprinting.

    • 2

      Work on your passing skills. Good passes create easy shots and layups, allowing your team to become more efficient on offense. Start with the chest pass. Pair up with another player and work on stepping into the pass, with your knees bent. Follow through, releasing the ball from your fingertips with your thumbs pointing downward. Aim to hit your partner in the chest each time. Repeat the same process, but this time focus on bounce-passes. Aim to make the ball bounce two-thirds of the way between you and your partner so your partner receives the ball at waist-height.

    • 3

      Practice hitting your free throws. Foul shots can be an easy way to score points and make the opposition think twice before fouling you next time. Start by lining up your foot with the nail located in the center of the free-throw line. This ensures you are positioned in line with the rim. If you're outside, you'll have to make an educated guess as to where the middle of the free throw line is. The success of your shots relies heavily on being in the right position. Ensure that your shooting arm is up and bent at a 90-degree angle and place your other arm alongside it for support. Aim toward the front of the rim, releasing the ball with a flick of the wrist as you push your arm up toward the basket. Be aware that shots with a lower trajectory have less margin for error.

    • 4

      Become a force on the offensive and defensive glass. Good rebounders rely more on attitude and determination than athletic ability. The key to rebounding is anticipating where the ball will go after it hits the rim. Assume that each shot will be missed and get yourself into position for the rebound, keeping your hands at shoulder-height or above. Box out your opponent by leaning back on him and preventing him from getting in front of you. Once the ball hits the rim, focus on securing the ball before making a move up court.

    • 5

      Contest your opponent's shots during a game or practice. Force the shooter out of his comfort zone by staying on your feet until the shooter leaves the ground. Try to get your hand on top of the ball. If you can't deflect the shot, put a hand up to obscure the shooter's vision and make him shoot over you.