How to Dribble a Basketball
A basketball player who has mastered the art of dribbling a basketball can navigate through the open court with utmost control and confidence. Famous NBA players like Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash and Chris Paul have been known to dominate games with their excellent dribbling skills since they can easily take the leather to the hoop or escape a multitude of defenders before passing off the ball.
If you want to dribble like a seasoned veteran on the hardcourt, then take a look at these simple tips:
Stick to the fundamentals.
dribblingMost players are tempted to become flashy while dribbling because it excites the crowd. Though you may please the audience, you may irritate your coach and teammates as well since flashy dribbling often leads to turnovers.
Stick to the basics first before anything else. To start dribbling, push the ball down using your fingers and wrist. No need to push the ball too hard since it will easily bounce to your hands even with light pressure.
Keep your head up.
One common error among first-time dribblers is the fact that they look at the ball while dribbling. A good dribbler doesn’t look at ball while dribbling. Keep your head high so you can survey the playing field for potentially open teammates and incoming defense. Feel the ball and “see” through your fingers instead.
Always protect the ball at all times.
When you are faced with a defender, you should always protect the ball with your body. If you are going to the left, dribble with your left and if you’re dribbling to the right, dribble to the right. Doing these will give you enough space to protect the ball from a defender as he or she tries to reach across your body for a possible steal. When dribbling, also bend your knees slightly with your body crouched and your head held up high.
Learn to dribble equally with both hands.
This ambidextrous ability will solidify your offensive game and will keep your opponents guessing on what move you’ll do next. Practice both your strong hand as well as your weak hand. Increase practice of your “off hand” once you have gotten a general feel of the ball in your hands.
Avoid the sidelines.
As much as possible always dribble near the middle of the court to avoid getting trapped at the sidelines. Do not pick up your dribble in corners since your opponents can trap you at that area. Always be ready for a full court press since they can trap you into the sidelines and at the corners in an effort to steal the ball.
Dribbling is not about showing off and speeding through your defenders. A good dribbler should be able to change pace and direction and know when to attack the basket and to pass off to a teammate.