Basketball: How the Game Started

It all started with a child's game that the inventor, Dr. James Naismith used to play outside his schoolhouse when he was younger.

This game was called duck-on-a-rock, it aimed to knock the duck off the rock by tossing another rock against it.

This then gave Dr. Naismith a concept of a game which he introduced to the students of YMCA Training School in 1891. Due to the cold weather, the trainees of the School for Christian Workers needed a game that could be played indoors and one that wouldn't use much strength.

He then conceptualized a ball game that uses two baskets as goals with both teams competing for the most number of shots.

Apart from the game itself, he also outlined the first 13 rules on playing the game which covers the guidelines, distinction of violations and fouls, and the roles of both umpires and referees, including the duration of each game.

Thus, these events led to the actual birth of the game in December 21, 1881 when it was first played after Dr. Luther Gulick, the head of physical education at the YMCA, gave a two-week allowance for his employee to create a new game.

While the game would be developed in the following years, the students of the YMCA Training School loved it initially. It was even said that Dr. Naismith had a difficult time convincing his students to leave the game after each session.

The game went on to be played in the Olympics in Berlin, Germany where the USA Team beat the Canadian team with a score of 19-8. At this time, there were 22 nations that joined the competition. By 1976, Women's Basketball was introduced into the Olympics. 

On August 3, 1949 in New York City, the National Basketball Association was formed. But prior to that were the creations of National Basketball League (NBL) in 1937 and Basketball Association of America (BAA) in 1946.

The NBA now serves as the largest group in the history of basketball. There are only two leagues left which retained their names since the formation of NBA, the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics.

The first women's collegiate basketball was splayed on April 4, 1896 in San Francisco's Page Street Armory where Cal and Stanford met. Unlike the physical and strenuous game we now see in WNBA, the women basketball teams back in 1896 retained their ladylike approach in the game and rules were even modified to accommodate this natural tendency. Stanford then won with a 2-1 score against Cal team.

These events led to the popularity of basketball in our time.

Basketball Tips for Better Shots

Ball…hoops…and a court…

Basketball isn't just about these three things; the play itself requires skill, good technique, perseverance and a great deal of confidence so as to perfect basketball shots and actualize them on the court.

While many people can play basketball, too few can truly play the sport to the highest degree. In this article, we have gathered some tips that could help improve your scoring average.

There is no great secret to basketball and no one was born to play basketball. Remember that even Michael Jordan poured tons of dedication and long hours of tiring practice before he was recognized on the court.

Practice…practice…practice…

Accidents don’t happen on courts and no player ever scored out of luck. Accurate shots are the products of day in and day out practice until jump shots become second nature.

Constant practice will groove your muscles so that every time you aim the ball, your muscles will retrieve the motion you have registered on it.

It is like moving automatically without being conscious of the entire movement; instead you just release the ball in its most perfect motion.

Use the backboard

Have you ever considered using the backboard? If not then you might be losing more scores than you can imagine. Watch Tim Duncan play. His scores often come from using the backboard.

This drill is quite simple but too few players truly use it. Once you excel in this skill, you can set yourself apart from all other players. And there's no question- it truly works.

The key in here? Practice. During training it is best to use a glass board as this will let you see more clearly the focal point at which you should aim your shot.

Observe good form

Form is central for a good shot. It all starts with the mechanics such as tucking the elbow in, quick movements in maneuvering the ball upward, proper handling of the ball so it doesn't slip from your hands, shooting the ball and a practiced flick of the wrist.

Like what we have already mentioned, good form is also something that doesn't just happen. It has to be practiced and no amount of time dedicated to practicing is wasted as this will contribute to the development of your play.

You see, it all lies in the dedication of a person to improve the skills he already has and to discover some that are yet to be seen.

Basketball Shoes Standards

Most basketball players would definitely invest in a reliable pair of basketball shoes. After all, the game of basketball requires you to move vigorously.

The movements such as jumping, running, shooting, blocking, and other side to side actions are obviously employed in the basketball game.

How can one sustain all the necessary moves when his basketball shoes easily tear away?

The basketball players are nonetheless wise enough to choose a good and decent pair of basketball shoes.

These pairs of basketball shoes need to be enduring so that not only wear and tear will be overcome but it will contain more of the capacity of hindering any occurrence of injuries on the player’s lower body parts.

The basketball shoes should likewise be comfortable to be worn by the player as he executes the routines of the game.

This is significant especially that the player needs to move swiftly and the least he requires is any difficulty in transferring his body weight from one foot to another.

More so, if you are a basketball player yourself, you should always go for comfortable but reliable basketball shoes.

The Variety of Basketball Shoes

However, basketball players are different. They then opt for different kinds of basketball shoes. There are those power players who prefer basketball shoes with the high tops for the utmost ankle comfort and support.

Meanwhile, the all-around basketball gamers often go for the mid-sole basketball shoes. The speedsters on the other hand most likely want the low-top and lightweight basketball shoes that provide no restriction on the ankles.

There are basketball players who utilize plain tennis shoes when they go about the game. But then there are dangers that come along with tennis shoes.

Some risks include higher chances of skidding, getting injured, and being slowed down due to weakening grips.

The Makeup of Basketball Shoes

The basketball shoes are either crafted through the use of canvas, synthetic leather, or leather alone. The most popularly utilized material for the basketball shoes is the synthetic leather due to its lightweight and durability.

Natural leather material is prone to stretching therefore heightening the dangers for the player. Other branded basketball shoes utilize the combined materials of natural textile or leather and the synthetic leather.

Basketball teams are oftentimes sponsored by basketball shoes manufacturers. The common requirement is the reliable sock liner therein. As of now, there are several varieties of basketball shoes sold on the market.

But of course, the standards for the choice of basketball shoes are always set for traction, durability, style, comfort, and support. Both male and female basketball players can very well satisfy themselves with the wide array of basketball shoes on the market.

A Good Insight in Basketball Uniforms

Basketball uniforms provide a sense of identity for the team players. After all, this is the real essence of uniforms, right?

For the audience, it will be easy for them to pinpoint which team is which because of the uniforms. Yet there is more to it.

Basketball uniforms undoubtedly inspire some sense of team spirit and unity in every player. It takes some pride for one to wear his basketball uniform.

The Standards of the Basketball Uniform

The common basketball uniforms are made up of a tank-top shirt which is mostly called the jersey, the shorts, the socks, and the sneakers.

These days for practicality’s sake, the modern types of basketball uniforms are comprised of the moisture-wicking and lightweight materials.

These qualities particularly aid in the control of the temperature and body moisture accumulation. Just imagine what a hassle it would become for the players to be wearing relatively thick basketball uniforms.

All of the popular basketball teams own their own basketball uniforms with distinctive designs. Each of the players has his respective number and surname on their uniforms so they can easily be identified.

It also follows that alternative basketball uniforms are ready for everyones use. It has been likewise a common practice that basketball uniforms are changed per season. More so, for basketball varsities, color coding has become an obsession.

It typically goes that the home team wears a light colored basketball uniform whereas the visitors wear the dark colored one.

The Styles of Basketball Uniforms

Basketball uniforms are always aimed at the comfort level of the wearers. These basketball players perspire a lot so they won’t be needing textiles which prove to be more of a hassle for them.

Generally, basketball uniforms are created with the polyester, rayon, and nylon materials, and these are nonetheless synthetic cloth. There are those that are comprised of satin fabrics.

There are cases when the basketball uniforms are comprised of either the contrasting or matching colors. 

The adapted basketball uniform styles range from the rounded or v-shaped necklines to the cap sleeves and sleeveless tops. Some teams opt for the mesh side that gives room for air to regulate the body’s temperature. The shorts, on the other hand, are either drawn with elastic waistbands or the drawstrings but are oftentimes irreversible.

There is really no limit with regards to the choice of color when it comes to basketball uniforms. The decision as to the design and hue is of course upon the team coordinators.

Tips for Playing Basketball Defense

They usually say that basketball wins are owed to the proper playing of the defenses. Honestly, when the best defense is projected at every single level of the basketball game, everything will turn out well for the team.

The best coaches know for a fact that basketball defense should be made the topmost priority. After all, basketball defense determines the after-effect of the players’ efforts on the courts.

But are you sure that your team knows how to play basketball defense the right way?

Will their knowledge on basketball defense satiate the requirements for bringing home the bacon?

Being cultured with the proper basketball defensive knowledge is hard to deal with especially with the lack of effort and time spent both by the player and the coach.

Getting into the core of basketball defense is all about desiring to improve the rest of the fields of the game. Basketball isn't only about passing, dribbling, or shooting.

Furthermore, it is all about learning basketball defenses so these aspects will be perfected. Most dedicated coaches can attest to how vital basketball defense is especially when a team’s heart is into winning.

Here are the valuable tips that need to be kept in mind as one learns the ropes of basketball defense:

You’ve got to quicken your hands and feet.

Know how to repeatedly and swiftly jump.

Practice your instincts and reflexes so you can immediately jump into action.
Be with a coach who prioritizes commitment and focuses not only on the individual members of the team but basketball defense as well.

Learn the different basketball defenses such as half-court trap, man-to-man defense, full-court press, and many others.

Be quick in your transitions from that of the offensive floor end to the defensive positions.

Comprehend the overall grasp of the game alongside its strategies and concepts.

Be an expert in handling not only the strong side basketball defense but also the weak side.

Constantly practice the necessary positioning, defensive bearings, and footwork.  

The fans usually roar as they spot their favorite players handle the basketball defenses the flawless way. In reality, basketball defense is actually all in the mind and being in the right attitude.

If one truly desires to win, his heart extends to being willing to handle basketball defensive learning. Remember that playing basketball isn't only a matter of shooting the ball and scoring. Executing the best defenses should likewise be vitally played.

Pointers for Basketball Dunking

The fanatics of the game are usually left in great amazement as they see their favored players dunking the ball in the hoop. In most cases though, basketball dunking stirs the excitement of the crowd.

When one of the players dunks the ball, the audience is left to nothing but roaring happily. There is no wonder that today’s best basketball players and other budding executioners of the game are into the thought of perfecting their basketball dunking. Basketball dunking is a skill that is worth showing off.

A slam dunk is nonetheless an awesome shot. To be able to deliver a spotless slam dunk means being capable of jumping higher into the air, releasing enough power to drive the ball with either one or both of the hands, and finally shooting it.

Meanwhile while everything sounds pleasing, the road to basketball dunking perfection isn't easy.  It requires severe discipline on the part of the player.

Basketball dunking not only uses the arms but the legs as well. In short, one has to work on the coordination of his leg muscles.

Here are some significant pointers to keep in mind as you attempt to work on your basketball dunking prowess:

Be proficient in jumping. While this may be a bit of an elementary basic, it necessarily means that with jumping comes strength and agility particularly with the leg muscles.

Jumping is a skill or movement which obviously needs the application of force from the feet. If there is less force, the jump could be very low.

Attend to your leg exercises. You don’t have to keep yourself in the gym since leg exercises can be done outdoors. How do you do it then? First, firmly stand on the ground.

Alternately stand putting your weight on your toes, putting them down, and then repeat the steps. The next procedure is for you to jump both up and down without going really high.

You could jog around an area if your time allows you to as this will prompt an efficient cardiovascular activity. Then you could opt for jumping rope and always stretch the leg muscles.

These activities will not only relax your legs but will also enhance the blood circulation in that area.

Use your best pair of shoes when playing. Always seek comfortable shoes since they boost your confidence, inspiration, performance, and agility.

Perfecting a basketball dunk also relies on your current mood. It is important that during the game, you instill happy thoughts in your mind. Now, are you ready to set the crowd in a heap of excitement with your basketball dunking exhibitions?

Basketball Tips to Make You Play Well

Many people may tell you that basketball is the coolest game they’ve ever known. This may be the reason as to why several teenagers and young people start out brandishing themselves with the basics of basketball.

In turn, this could also be the same cause as to why many people prefer watching the game either on the court or on television.

Are you also a basketball enthusiast?

Do you know of some vital basketball tips that will ultimately guide you to play well?

Then read on because you will find the most necessary insights in connection with basketball tips in this article.

A Crash Course to Basketball Tips

Practice shooting, start shooting, and take more shots with the ball. You’ve got to perfect your shooting skills. Why?

It is because points are garnered through the shots aimed by the player. If you are lacking in this aspect, you can expect to run home with tears in your eyes.

Players are on the basketball team primarily because of their shooting expertise. So why should you allow yourself to drift away from the standards?

Maintain a stable physical condition. Playing basketball will require a lot of endurance. It is important that your physical condition is perfect for you to become an effective player.

There are programs that will test your physical capability and with utmost care, you’ve got to pass the tests.

Practice makes you a perfect player. Theories alone won't mold you into a good player. Putting them to practice will certainly make sense.

Learn your footwork by heart. It is necessary that you know how to pivot, keep your balance, and push off your weight to jump or run.

Do your dribbling. Handling the ball determines your success as a player. Being good at dribbling the ball means becoming well-informed with dribbling between the legs, behind the back, and cross over.

Push your luck to the basket. The very common mistake of a basketball player is executing a lot of awesome moves but end up a failure when it comes to finishing the task towards the basket.

Basketball isn't all about show-offs. What matters most is bringing the ball to its basket and gaining points!

Get the right attitude. It is most essential that you bring with you the best mentality as often as possible.

If you are settled with your goals, then you will surely bring home the trophy at the end of the game.

Extend your boundaries and learn as much as you can. Basketball is fun and being really good at it adds more to the fun. You can always do better if you put all of your heart and mind into the basketball tips that you need to know.

A Glance at the History of Basketball

What is it about basketball that makes it soo popular?

Why are there so many people who take interest in being part of the game?

Wherever you go, you will spot people both young and old who get hooked on basketball.

They say it is cool to be playing the game but aside from that there are several values and disciplines that one can derive from basketball. But how did basketball start out? Let us take a glimpse of the history of basketball.

Dr. James Naismith is known to be the father of basketball who came up with the concept in the year 1892. The very first basketball game was held on April 8, 1893 in Beaver Falls Pennsylvania.

The first two competing teams were the Geneva College and New Brighton YMCA. It then popularized so that by the year 1914, there were at least 360 basketball teams formed by different colleges.

The very first NCAA Men’s College Basketball Championship was then held in 1939 and was bagged by the University of Oregon.

Due to the conflict of interests, professional basketball teams were then molded. These teams started playing for money. It was in 1898 that the National Basketball League or NBL was produced and spearheaded by Barney Sedran and Ed Wachter.

Within the course of basketball pro teams, the first teams to have a taste of success were the Celtics and the Buffalo Germans followed by the Harlem Globetrotters and New York Renaissance in the 1930s.

It was also in these times when basketball for women started booming with the exemplary star players such as Alline Banks Sprouse and Babe Didrikson.

In the 1940s, the very first basketball games in the colleges were broadcasted on national television. The first to be shown was the game that was contested by Fordham and Pittsburgh at the Madison Square Garden.

This then heightened the popularity of the game. Its fame spread like madness and was obviously watched by the whole of the United States especially the tournament that was played by 350 American college basketball teams for the NCAA championship.

On a yearly basis, there were new basketball teams that surfaced to be the most favorites of the crowd.

And all through the years, the game enthusiasts continued to sharpen their skills and executed notable moves in the courts. To date, the history of basketball is revered and an inspiration to many.

Important Pointers for Basketball Coaching

Playing basketball isn't all about relying on one’s skills and knowledge of the game. It further requires teamwork. A player will be unable to score for the team if the rest fail to cooperate in the venture.

More so, basketball coaching is an integral ingredient in bringing success for the team. Can just anybody do the coaching? If one has no talent for it, he won't be able to be an effective coach.

It is significant that playing basketball should focus on the offensive and defensive sides.

As coaches, they become the responsible individuals for setting the tables for these routines. Both the training in the offense and defense will not only mold the players to look their best and bring the ball to the basket but enough knowledge in these arenas as emphasized more by basketball coaching will retain the team’s being organized and composed as well as make use of tactics that will work up the opponent’s weaknesses for their own advantage.

If you take an interest in basketball coaching, you’ve got to educate yourself with the proper timing and tactics.

Achieving a certain expertise on these elements will heighten your own team’s chances of scoring and eventually winning the game. Take note of these pointers when coaching:

Ensure a solid commitment to basketball coaching. If you aren't directed by your commitment and determination, then your basketball coaching goals will remain a dream that floats around never to be realized.

Get the proper training for yourself. It will be advantageous for you to undergo training from a reputed basketball coach who can instill in you the values and necessary tips for coaching.

Get a grip on the system. Basketball coaching means learning the ropes of the game. With a keen understanding of it, you will soon be geared towards the procedures that will make everything easy and possible for you and your team.

Keep an eye on your goals. Focus, perseverance, confidence, and acceptance are the key elements to acheiveing your goals when coaching.

Dream, plan, and work on it. Your dreams can materialize if you have the willpower to do so.

There is no other being who can direct the team towards success other than you. Your basketball coaching techniques and pointers when embedded into the hearts and minds of the players will surely inspire all of them to bring victory home.

Worthy Tips for Basketball Training

True enough, how could you become a real big time basketball figure? This is often one of the questions that bugs the basketball player wannabes.

You’ve got to fully understand that before you become a great player, you first have to undergo some intense basketball training.

Yes, the basketball figures that you so admire today have been through a lot of rigid basketball training.

You should bear in mind that a great part of basketball training is getting your head in the game. This is all basketball training is about. No one can be in the limelight if the necessary basketball trainings are neglected or skipped.

So what are the vital tips for basketball training that you need to focus on?

Always be aggressive. Basketball players need to be aggressive in their every move. If you just stay unmoving on the spot and you seem to be uncertain of your next move, rest assured that the glory that is supposed to be yours will be benefited by your opponent. You’ve got to exert your quick decision-making in every game.

Remember to make consecutive efforts. If at first attempt you failed to score, work up on the succeeding opportunities until such time that you come up face to face with your chances.

Always be optimistic. The success in the game is highly influenced by a positive attitude. You should never come to a point of doubting your skills, your abilities, and yourself.

Never be afraid of failing. As long as you place your heart and mind in the game, you can be certain that your play will be what you expect it to be. 

Do your part as a teammate. Don't neglect the fact that you are playing for a team so be sure that you have everyone’s interest in mind as you shoot the ball.

Value what your coach says. Your basketball coach is your guardian. Therefore, you have to exert your best during practice because your coach will obviously want the best for your team.

Play your best in the defense and stay out of trouble. A smart player is someone who doesn't get involved in fights. This will only ruin your mood so better work up on the defense rather than offending your opponents.

Practice and work hard. It is very important that you take time to prepare for the big game. You can attend to such preparation by committing yourself with practices.

Now keep all these things in your mind and your basketball training is certainly going to take you somewhere.

Basketball Shooting: Its Vital Principles

The main objective of basketball shooting is accuracy in every release of the ball as it is aimed towards the basket. All basketball players know the importance of accuracy in basketball shooting yet only a few of them are able to do it correctly.

Now there is always room for improvement. With a lot of practice and discipline, basketball shooting can always be perfected.

As a basketball player yourself, you must guard your own moves. You have to critic your own basketball shooting moves.

Are you able to execute the shots accordingly?

Is there more failure or success? You alone can gauge your improvement at basketball shooting. There are of course fundamentals and mechanics that you need to inculcate in yourself if you truly want to be a good basketball shooter.

The Principles of Basketball Shooting

The Mental Principle. Basketball shooting requires a great deal of psychological conditioning on your part.

You need to know when it is best to shoot and how you can effectively do it despite the pressures rising on the court. Here are the affecting factors concerning the mental aspect.

Concentration. Every player should focus his attention on his attempts to shoot the ball. Through constant practice, you will be able to exert enough concentration although there is distraction around you.To achieve concentration, you’ve got to learn how to relax even if an opponent is trying to advance towards you.

Confidence. Your guts will speak highly of you. If you fully trust your ability in shooting, you can end up doing it flawlessly. If you are attacked by the lack of confidence, you could mess up the entire game.

The Physical Principle. Aside from the mental factor, the physical aspect counts a lot in the game of basketball. Here are the important factors that you’ve got to arm yourself with.

Establishing the target. This refers to your keenness in eyeing your target despite the commotion thrown by the roaring audience or by the varying movements on the court. You have to focus your eyes to where the ball is and who has the ball at the moment.

The body balance. Body balance means that you can easily concert your muscle efforts. The concept of ball control comes in as well.

Force generation. All of your body parts will be used during the game. Therefore, you’ve got to will yourself to synchronize the forces that you can gather from your shoulders, back, legs, arm muscles, and the likes.

Basketball shooting is relatively important in the game as this determines how your team will score and whether or not you will succeed in winning.

A Look at the Early History of the National Basketball Association

For one to appreciate what he sees now, he must have a glimpse from the past. Here, we have gathered some data regarding the history of the National Basketball Association which became the symbol of Basketball.

From the combined efforts of the National Basketball League and Basketball Association of America, NBA was given birth in 1949.

While the American public was quite skeptic on the game, history proves that this later became the most well-loved game in history that its story is marked by hundred of events that led us here now.

After World War II, American businesses boomed, more particularly the sports businesses. By this time, the only large-scale basketball league was the National Basketball League (NBL) in the mid-west.

The various owners of the indoor sports businesses then congregated to form the Basketball Association of America.

There were just 13 cities that were given franchises however, two backed-out from the national league, the Indianapolis and the Buffalo. The 11 left were the following:

• Boston Celtics
• New York Knickenbockers
• Philadelphia Warriors
• Providence Steamrollers
• Toronto Huskies
• Washington Gardens
• Chicago Stags
• Cleveland Rebels
• Detroit Falcons
• Pittsburgh Ironmen, and
• St Louis Bombers

While the new league was acknowledged in the cities, the take-off was still mediocre. Nevertheless, this debut league led to more popularity on the part of the National Basketball league as it was played in the larger cities. But everything was yet to unfold.

The first and second season of the BBA met dramatic changes which led them towards the acquisition of 4 teams from the NBL. With a decrease of 48 from 60 games from the first season and the dropping out of four teams, the BBA was forced to import Baltimore Bullets from the American Basketball League, a regional basketball circuit to meet the balance between the 7 remaining teams.

Apart from the loss of the four teams and the star George Mikan, NBL suffered a loss of public interest due to their failure to play in the cities that led them to their downfall in the 1948-1949 season. They packed up at the end of the season and dissolved.

During this time, the National Basketball Association was formed. The six remaining teams from the NBL joined the BBA. Indianapolis Olympians joined the league and both Indianapolis Jets and Providence Steamrollers backed-out. This set of seventeen teams went on to commence the NBA as we know it today.

Basketball Dribbling: Pointers that You Ought to Keep in Mind

Basketball dribbling is hailed to be among the most significant skills in playing the game. The most famous basketball players today are really good at dribbling.

The skill doesn't come out naturally though. One needs to hone his skills in basketball dribbling and it means getting the proper training plus the factor of both the arm and leg power.

Basketball dribbling requires you to remember the common mistakes made by almost everyone who lacks the practice and to of course do what is supposed to be done.

The Common Mistakes in Basketball Dribbling

One of the ordinarily committed mistakes by people in basketball dribbling is by trying to handle the ball with the palm. In truth, basketball dribbling should be done with the use of the fingers.

It follows that your fingers and hands should be equipped with enough strength so that sufficient force will cause the ball to be dribbled.

The first thing that comes with dribbling practice is training the fingers to be strong. It is also vital that you can use your right and left hands when dribbling or else your opponent will easily grab the ball.

Another mistake that is committed is dribbling near the opponent. When dribbling, you have to do it using your hand which is farthest from your opponent.

This will then let your rival experience extreme difficulty in grabbing the ball from you. If you really know how to execute basketball dribbling properly, you are able to be unpredictable in throwing in the defenses.

Then, you have the mistake of focusing your eyes on the ball as you dribble. This will hinder your entire grasp of what is happening around you.

While doing the dribble, you should be focused on every little thing that happens on the court so you can properly engage your defenses.

Some Useful Tips in Basketball Dribbling

Keep your head up and your eyes on the court when dribbling.

Remember to be protective of the ball.

Always let the ball bounce hard from the floor.

Do some take offs when attempting a basketball dribbling move.

Use both of your hands when dribbling.

Basketball dribbling is a skill that can be practiced and enhanced. If you have the dream of becoming a great dribbler, you have to take time and practice the pointers that will improve your basketball dribbling moves.

Descriptions of the Different Basketball Positions

An organized basketball game is played with 5 players on each side. And each player has his own task to do during the game both on offense and on defense. Here are those:

Point Guard.

The point guard is usually (but should not necessarily) the smallest player on the floor since size is often equated to quickness and agility.

The point guard brings the ball down the court and creates play for every possession. For this reason, he is referred to as the extension of the court on the floor. Other characteristics that a point guard should have are: good ball handling and dribbling skills, good passing skills, good defender, and good outside shooter.

Some of the popular point guards on the NBA today are Jason Kidd, Steve Nash, and Tony Parker.

Off Guard

Off guard is also referred to as the shooting guard since he is the one who is expected to score the most. Shooting guards must know how to complete the offense, have the skill to shoot the ball from all points on the floor, know how to read his teammates movements, and know how to move without the ball being open and receive a pass.

Off guards are often the most popular players on the team. Some of the most popular NBA off guards include Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Vince Carter, Reggie Miller, and Tracy McGrady.

Small Forward

Small forward or the number 3 player is often considered as the most versatile position in the game since they show quickness and must posses considerable side. Forward equates to power and small with speed and shooting ability.

NBA's best small forwards are LeBron James, Grant Hill, Scottie Pippen, Shawn Marion, Tayshaun Prince, Larry Bird and Julius Erving.

Power Forward

Power forwards are often good defenders since they are expected to come up with the ball off the bounce. They possess size and power which give them the advantage to defend their territory or give picks to their point guards to make better play.

The power forward position has been revolutionized recently and has been more acknowledged as an offensive threat with NBA players such Carl Malone, Ben Wallace, Kevin Garnett, and Dirk Nowitzki.

Center

A usual NBA center stands on the average of 7 feet tall, the tallest player on the team. The center defends part of the court close to the basket and is expected to come up with the ball off the rebound. NBA centers include Yao Ming, Shaquille O'Neal, and Brad Miller.

Popular Basketball Terminologies

Understanding different basketball terminologies is the first step to understanding the game. Here are the popular terms you often hear during the game.

Offense – The team that is in possession of the ball and with a chance to score.

Defense – The team without the ball; the team that is guarding another team to prevent them from scoring.

Free throw (foul shot) – A shot that is worth 1 point. A shot taken from the foul line after the opponent committed a technical foul or a personal foul.

Dunk – A shot where the player aggressively jumps and reaches the rim to score.

Alley oop – A play executed by throwing the ball to a player in mid air near the basket to immediately score before touching the ground.

Bank shot – A shot where the ball touches the backboard first making an angle to drop the ball into the basket.

Three-point shot – A shot thrown beyond the arc; a shot that is worth 3 points.

Lay-up – A shot taken by driving in to, jumping close to, and putting the ball directly into the basket using one hand.

Pass – A ball thrown by a player to a teammate. This is used to start play or help the teammate to make a basket.

Assist – A pass given to help a teammate score.

Rebound – An action made by a player to grab the ball bouncing off the rim or the backboard. It is usually made after a player made a shot.

Offensive rebound – A rebound made from a teammate's own missed shot.

Defensive rebound – A rebound made from the opponent's missed shot.

Man-to-man defense – A defensive technique where each player guards a specific player from the opponent.

Block – An act where a defensive player touches a part of the ball on its way to the basket, thus preventing a field goal.

Shot clock – A time limit given to the offensive team to shoot the ball.

Jump ball – Where 2 players jump and try to tap the ball tossed by an official in between them. This is used during the start of the game (tip off), start the overtime period or to reset the play.

Traveling (walk) – A violation where the ball-handler makes more than 2 steps without dribbling the ball.

Points in the paint – Points made inside the shaded area (in the foul line) of the court.

Personal foul – An illegal contact committed by any player against the opponent.

Team foul – An accumulated foul of the team within one quarter.

Penalty – A situation where the team is forced to send the opponent to the foul line every time they commit a foul.

Basketball Fun Facts: NBA Records

Scoring

Most points scored in a single game: Wilt Chamberlain March 2, 1962 (100 points) followed by Kobe Bryant Jan. 22, 2006 (81 points)

Most points scored in one half: Wilt Chamberlain March 2,1962 (59 points)

Most points scored in a quarter: George Gervin (33 points)

Most points scored in overtime: Gilbert Arenas December 17, 2006 (16 points)

Most three-point shots made in one game: Kobe Bryant, January 7, 2003 (12 shots)

Most three-point shots made in one half: Kobe Bryant, March 28, 2003 (8 shots)

Most three-point shots made in one quarter: Michael Redd, February 20, 2002 (8 shots)

Most points scored in a NBA All-Star game: Wilt Chamberlain (42 points)

Most points per game average in a NBA Season: Wilt Chamberlain, 1961-1962. (50.4 ppg.)

Most Points scored in a NBA Career: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,387), followed by Karl Malone 36,928, Michael Jordan (32,292), and Wilt Chamberlain (31,419).

Most points per game in a NBA career: Michael Jordan (32.12 ppg.)

Most seasons leading  scorer: Michael Jordan (10)

Steals

Most steals in a single game: Larry Kenon, Dec. 26, 1976 tied with Kendall Gill April 3, 1999 with 11 steals.

Most steals in NBA career: John Stockton (3,625)

Blocks

Most blocks in a single game: Elmore Smith, October 28, 1973 with 17 blocks.

Most blocks in NBA career: Hakeem Olajuwon (3,830)

Assists

Most assists in one game: Scott Skiles with 30 assists.

Most assists in NBA career: John Stockton (15,806), Mark Jackson (10,334), and Magic Johnson (10,141).

Rebound

Most rebounds in a NBA Career: Wilt Chamberlin (23,924)

Most rebounds in a game: Wilt Chamberlin (55)

MVPs

Most number of Regular Season MVPs: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (6)

Most number of Finals MVPs: Michael Jordan (6)

Coach

Highest Win-Loss Record by a coach on a regular season: Phil Jackson (.713) W-891 L-359

Other Records

Most games played in Career: Robert Parish (1,611)

First NBA Champion: Philadelphia Warriors (1947)

Multiple champions: Boston Celtics (15)

Highest combined final score in a NBA game: Denver Nuggets vs. Detroit Pistons on December 13, 1983 (370 points). Detroit won 186-184 in 3 OTs.

Lowest combined points in a NBA game: Boston Celtics(62) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (57) on February 27, 1955 (119 combined points)

Best record by a NBA team in one season: Chicago Bulls, 1995-1996 Season. 72 wins and 10 losses.

Worst record by a NBA Team in one season: Philadelphia 76ers, 1972-73 season. 9 wins and 73 losses.

Longest winning streak: Los Angeles Lakers (33 games)

Longest home winning streak: Boston Celtics (38 games)

Longest losing streak: Cleveland Cavaliers (24 games)

Youngest player to score 1000 points: LeBron James (20 years and 41 days)

Different Types of Basketball Violations

Violations can be committed both by the offense and the defense. Here are those:

Violations committed by the offense:

Traveling or walk violation – is committed when the ball handler takes too many steps without dribbling the ball.

This usually occurs after rebounding, after receiving the ball from the pass, and when making a move to drive towards the basket.

Backcourt violation or over-and-back – is committed when the player holding the ball crosses over the mid court line then returns at the back court.

This also happens when the player from the front court passes the ball to his teammate in the backcourt.

Double dribble – is a violation involving the ball handler. This violation is committed when the player dribbles with both hands or if the player dribbles, holds the ball, and starts dribbling again.

Offensive foul – is committed when the ball handler attacks to the basket and deliberately hits the defending player with an established stance.

Offensive goal tending – is called when the player attempts to interfere with the ball while it is on the rim or on the way down to the basket. If this happens, the basket won't count.

Five-second inbound violation – happens if the inbounder isn't able to pass the ball to his teammate after 5 seconds.

Three-second violation – is called when the offensive player stays inside the paint for 3 seconds.

Ten-second backcourt violation – is committed if the offensive team isn't able to cross the ball to the mid-court within 10 seconds.

Violations committed by the defense:

Foul – is called against the defensive player if he makes an illegal contact with the ball handler. A foul can also be called even if the player involved is away from the ball. A foul can be caused of blocking, holding, pushing, charging, and tripping.

Intentional foul – is an intentional foul used to stop the clock or to send the opposing player to the free throw line.

Goaltending – is a violation where the defending player interferes with the ball on its way down to the basket or while it is on the rim regardless if it is going to go in or not. The ball counts if goaltending is called.

Illegal defense – is also called 3-second defensive violation. It is used to keep the defensive team from using the zone defense.

7 Areas in Improving Your Basketball Game

Becoming a better basketball player doesn't happen over night. It involves serious work, discipline, dedication, and the love of the game to become the player you want to be.

So to help you out on your way to become a better basketball player in the future, here are 7 areas you need to improve:

Speed and agility – There are many exercises you can do to improve your speed and agility. One of the most effective is the "suicide".

Start at the base line and sprint towards the free throw line, touch the floor and go back. Sprint and touch the mid-court line and back. Sprint and touch to the farthest free throw line and back.

Sprint and touch the opposite base line and back. Do this several times and will definitely improve your speed. You can also use other sprint training techniques.

Jumping – Improving the strength and power of your legs will improve your vertical jump. Do squats, step ups, and lunges. Jumping and hopping drills are effective as well.

Strength – Weight lifting is an effective tool to become strong and increase muscle mass. If you play the position of forward and center, you definitely need to improve in this area.

Stamina – Stamina training such as road running is effective to build up the heart to go to distance during the game. 

Dribbling – This skill can be improved by using different dribbling techniques and drills. There are 3 dibbling techniques: natural dribble or relaxed dribble, control dribble or dribbling low to maintain possession under a defensive pressure, and speed dribble or dribbling at a maximum speed.

Different drills include up the ladder, squeeze the bananna, ball slap, rhythm drill, drop step, pass and catch, hot potato, sit dribbling, spider, dribble 8, figure 8, one leg, ball drop, and around the world.

These drills aren't only applicable to ball-handlers. They apply to all positions to increase ball handling capability.

Shooting – Improving your shooting skills involves correct jump, body form and power. This can be improved by constant practice. Shooting the ball for several times using one form increases the chances of making the shot.

Bottom line is, if you want to improve your shooting you should practice, practice, and practice some more.

Defense – Improving your defense is as important as improving your shooting and dribbling ability. There are different ways to do this: cone drills, stadium stairs, defensive slides, and jumping rope.

3 Key Lessons to Improve Your Rebounding Skill

There are 2 occasions where you can get the ball off the bounce: when you are on the offense and when you are on the defense. Either way, you need to learn these lessons to become an overall rebounder of your team:

1. Rebounding is making the right body position.

Your coach always yells "rebound!" and you are getting sick of it because no matter how high you jump, your opponent is still able to grab the ball away from you.

If this is your problem, then you might not be placing yourself in the right rebounding position. Remember this: rebounding doesn't start when you get the ball on its way down, it starts on the ground.

Thus, knowing where to place your body to get the perfect position is one key to grabbing the ball. (I say one key because you have to understand the second lesson.)

The ideal position is placing your body between your opponent and the ball. Take note that not all rebounds come from the rim or the board, so positioning your body between the opponent and the basket isn't always possible.

2. Rebounding is anticipating where the ball will land.

You know the right position but it is useless if you don't know how to anticipate where the ball is going to go. This requires common sense. For example, if the ball is taken in the perimeter, it is likely that the ball will bounce off strong.

A short shot may yield an opposite result.  What you should do is to always put your eye on the ball and the moment the player taking the shot. Predict where the ball will land and position yourself right away taking into consideration lesson number 1. 

Take note that you can't always guess the position of where the ball will land but knowing this will increase your chances of placing yourself in the right position to get the rebound.

3. Rebounding is all about attitude.

As said by many, rebounding isn't about who jumps high or who stands tall; it is about who wants the ball more. This is the third lesson you have to learn.

The attitude is all it takes to become a good rebounder. You may know how to position before rebounding and you may know how to anticipate where the ball will land, but if you don't want it, you won't get it.

Know the right position, anticipate where the ball will land, and wanting the ball more are the 3 main factors to become a good rebounder. Learn these and you'll be controlling the board.

Ways to Score in a Basketball Game

There are different ways to score in a basketball game. Let us learn each of them:

Jump shot – is the most common shot made at the perimeter (or the place on the court that is relatively far from the basket), also known as set shot.

This is done by getting the right height before throwing the ball to the basket. It is also essential to follow through with the ball.

This is done by maintaining your form while the ball is still on its way to the basket. The following through is said to increase the chance of scoring. A jump shot is often worth 2 points.

Three-point shot – is a perimeter shot taken beyond the arc (both feet of the player must not step on the three-point line).

The player should possess leg and knee power to generate enough height to release the ball 20 feet away from the basket. A three-point shot often gives the team a boost and adds excitement to the game.

Free throw – A free throw is given after the opponent has committed a personal foul or a technical foul. This is an unguarded shot taken in the free-throw lane and is worth 1 point.

Dunk – is one of the most exciting shots that can be made by a player. This is done by jumping high enough to get your hands on the rim while still holding the ball.

Once you reach the right height, slam the ball and grab the rim. It adds more to the excitement.

Alley oop – is a pass and shoot sequence that involves great coordination between the passer and the receiver of the ball.

The ball is thrown to a player in mid air who will also shoot the ball before he touches the ground.

Lay up – is the most common shot made inside the paint. This is also the easiest shot to make. You drive to the basket, take off to get the right elevation, and lay the ball directly to the rim or off the board with one hand. The non-shooting hand is used to protect the ball from the defender.

Hook shoot – is made popular by Kareem Abdul-Jabar. This shot is done by turning your body on the side while the head is still facing the basket. You will jump off with the non-shooting leg and toss to ball with one hand similar to laying up.

Scoring in a basketball game is important to win a game but don’t forget to play defense so that you prevent your opponent from scoring more than you do.

How to Execute Screen Play

Learning the fundamentals of a screen play is an important skill to improve your offensive game.

Screen plays can be used in different ways: to free your teammate from his defender by providing your body as a wall, to allow a few seconds of free time to make a shot off the screen, to free yourself so that you can give a pass to another player, or to switch defenders to gain a height advantage.

There are 2 important elements in executing a good screen play: the one setting the screen which is usually the bigger player and the one receiving the screen who is usually the point guard or the off guard. Both should move in right timing.

First, the player who sets the screen should assume a stance by standing in the position where the width of his body can be utilized the most.

The feet should be shoulder-width apart while the hands are tucked with the body to avoid committing an illegal pick. The receiver of the screen at this point is setting up his defender parallel to the direction of the intended cut.

Then, the setter of the screen should establish a position and hold a proper angle and wait for his teammate to make a cut. The other player will then drive the defender towards the screen.

It is important to make sure that the play is timed perfectly. Too early would mean that the player giving the screen hasn't yet established his position.

He would be called for an illegal screen and will result to turning the ball over to the opponent. Too late and the defender could react on the screen and the play would be useless.

Once the cut has been made, both the setter and the receiver will be open and a switch will be likely to happen. Both players must react quickly and make a play from this situation.

As was mentioned, the screen can be used to gain height advantage over the defender, make a shot from the time the cutter is free, and give off the ball easily to another teammate.

Here are the different types of screens:

1. Back Screen
2. Ball Screen
3. Cross Screen
4. Down Screen

Here are the different types of cuts

1. Fade Cut
2. Back Cut
3. Wing Cut
4. Curl Cut

When used properly, the screen play will make a good offensive play and will likely be one of your offensive strengths as a team.

What a Basketball Player should Eat

A basketball player should eat healthy not just for the game but for his overall health. But since the sport burns a lot of energy, players should eat more foods that contain the right nutrients that will give him the energy to sustain his fuel requirement - but still balanced to attain optimum use.

There are 2 basic food groups that a basketball player should eat: protein and carbohydrates.

Proteins – are the building blocks of the body which is responsible for paving the increase of strength and muscle mass through exercise.

Protein is found in fish, eggs, dairy products, milk, and meat. There are also kinds of vegetables that are rich in protein.

These are leguminous plants or plants which grow on the vine or climbing pea or bean such as peanuts, soya, and asparagus. Protein should supply 10 percent of our energy needs.

Carbohydrates – are essential for the functioning of our brain. Carbohydrates are stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen.

They are often found in foods such as rice, bread, potatoes, pasta, fruits, honey, jam, and pulses.

Carbohydrates should supply 50 percent of our energy needs however, since a basketball player requires more fuel to keep him in the game, some sports nutritionists require players to have 70 percent carbo diet. 

As always, fat is needed but should be minimized.

Before the game…

Eat at least 1 hour before the game. This gives the body ample time to digest the food before using it during the game. It is suggested that the player should eat lots of carbohydrates to store energy.

During the game…

Players aren't often seen eating during the game but most people don't know about this: eating a bananna during the game helps players to replenish lost energy quickly. Regularly drinking fluid during the game helps the player to bring back the water he has lost from the game.

After the game…

After the game, the player should eat protein, then carbohydrates. This is because protein helps facilitates carbohydrate to replenish the storage chemical of the cell of the body called glycogen.

Glycogen stores glucose, an important component in metabolism. Without these two, the body won't regain the energy that is lost from the previous game and will contribute to mental and physical fatigue.

Take note that protein and carbohydrates aren't the only requirements of a player. He should also exercise to help keep his body healthy and fit.

How to Play Basketball Defense Effectively

Some people just seem to have the talents and skills necessary for basketball. Some of us though have to toil our way through it and really maximize and take to heart all the trainings we have to endure.

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