To get better at basketball, focus on a combination of skill development, physical conditioning, mental preparation, and consistent practice. Here are key strategies based on expert advice:

1. Master the Fundamentals

• Ball Handling: Prioritize dribbling skills by practicing with both hands. Work on basic moves like crossover, between-the-legs, and behind-the-back dribbles. Keep your body balanced and dribble aggressively at a controlled height to maintain control

• Shooting: Develop good shooting form—square shoulders, elbow in, and a proper wrist follow-through. Practice different shot types such as jump shots, layups, free throws, and floaters regularly from various spots on the court

• Passing: Practice chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes to improve your ability to open up the offense

• Defense: Work on footwork, lateral quickness, anticipation, and closeouts to become a strong defender

2. Practice at Game Speed and Intensity

• Simulate real-game pressure during practice by imagining defenders and moving at game pace. This helps transfer skills from practice to actual games

• Use drills that mimic game situations to improve decision-making under pressure

3. Identify and Improve Weaknesses

• Focus extra practice time on your weaker skills, whether it’s shooting free throws, dribbling with your non-dominant hand, or defensive positioning

4. Physical Conditioning

• Build endurance, strength, agility, and explosiveness through targeted workouts such as interval training, suicides, strength training (squats, lunges, push-ups), and agility ladder drills

• Core strength and lower-body power are essential for stability and jumping ability

5. Develop Basketball IQ and Mental Skills

• Study professional games to understand tactics, spacing, and player roles

• Practice communication with teammates on defense and offense

• Work on mental toughness through positive self-talk, visualization, and meditation to improve focus and confidence during games

6. Consistency and Goal Setting

• Create a regular practice schedule targeting different skills on different days (e.g., dribbling on Monday, shooting on Tuesday)

• Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to track progress and stay motivated

7. Seek Competitive Play and Mentorship

• Play in competitive settings like one-on-one or three-on-three games to get more touches on the ball and apply skills in real scenarios

• Find a mentor or coach to provide guidance, accountability, and feedback

By combining these elements—focused skill work, physical training, mental preparation, consistent practice, and competitive experience—you can steadily improve your basketball performance