How to Play Basketball Like a Pro? 5 Tips for a Basketball Player

Slam Dunk, 3-Pointer, Jump Shot, Dribble, Rebound – the list of basketball terminology is endless. Whether you’re an NBA fan or a player just starting out, the game is more than just hoops and scoring points; it is actually an art of wisdom and technique. The concept of basketball revolves around teamwork and strategic maneuvering to ultimately score a goal against the opposing team.

As Michael Jordan once said, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” So if you are a beginner and want to follow in the footsteps of NBA Legends, you should keep these basketball techniques in mind to help you improve your game.

Learn the Techniques of the Best Basketball Players

1. Dribbling like LeBron James

Ball handling has evolved from simple passing to creating goal scoring opportunities. Dribbling the ball perfectly is an added value for this technique. To master LeBron’s powerful dribble, practice dribbling with your right hand while protecting the ball with your left. Switch sides after 50 reps.

Tip: Hold the ball firmly with your arms spread as wide as possible, placing your middle and ring fingers on the seam of the ball.

2. Pass like Magic Johnson

Cited by Fox Sports, as a “basketball prodigy,” Magic Johnson’s incredible passing ability ultimately landed him in the LA Lakers Hall of Fame. Therefore, once you have mastered the technique of dribbling, it is time to move on to mastering the art of passing.

One-Handed Pass: This pass is used to pass the ball quickly with one hand immediately after dribbling. This pass can be a bounce pass, air pass, or chest pass and is used to react quickly to an open player without stopping his dribble.

Tip: To execute a perfect chest pass, hold the ball on both sides with your thumbs behind the ball, then rotate your fingers and flick your thumbs down as you release.

3. Defend like Michael Jordan

What a team really needs is a solid defense to win a championship. Michael Jordan’s defensive intensity resulted in some of his most memorable plays. Good defense requires balance. Therefore, always remember to maintain a balanced distance between your feet and shoulders.

Tip: Position your shooting foot slightly forward and maintain the same setup for each shot. Point your feet toward the basket but not necessarily parallel to it. Once you feel comfortable, align your feet the same way for each stroke. Remember, consistency builds accuracy.

4. Shoot Jump Shots like Stephen Curry

Jump Shot is perhaps the best way to act against the opponent’s defense. Standing tall at 6 feet, 3 inches is the NBA’s best jump shooter Stephen Curry, who not only manages to jump higher but can also shoot the ball faster.

His quick release and perfect timing make him unstoppable. You can easily get into a shooting position like Stephen by releasing the ball just before you reach the maximum height of your jump.

Tip: Use your feet to generate upward force, landing in the same place to maintain balance and keeping your wrists relaxed as you release.

5. Do it Kevin Durant’s way

At nearly 7 feet tall, Kevin Durant of the Houston Rockets ranks among the NBA’s top five shooters. The unique thing about Durant’s shooting technique is that he aligns himself with the basket, rather than facing the basket.

To shoot like Durant, position your hips toward the basket, point your toes toward 10 o’clock, move your feet forward, swing your shoulders back, and shoot with a high arc.

Tip: Keep your non-shooting hand to the side and rest the ball on your shooting hand. Drive the ball straight up, position your elbow comfortably under the ball and extend your shooting hand to the rim.

Which Basketball Players have their own shoes?

Many basketball players have their signature shoes in collaboration with well-known sports brands. These sneakers combine performance with style, making them a functional and fashion statement. Some of the most famous players who have their own shoes include:

Michael Jordan – Air Jordan (Nike)
LeBron James – LeBron Series (Nike)
Kobe Bryant – Kobe Series (Nike)
Kevin Durant – KD series (Nike)
Stephen Curry – Curry Series (Under Armour)
Kyrie Irving – Kyrie Series (Nike)
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Zoom Freak Series (Nike)
Damian Lillard – Dame Series (Adidas)
James Harden – Harden Series (Adidas)
Shaquille O’Neal – Shaq Shoes (Reebok)

Each line is designed to highlight the players’ unique playing styles. These shoes not only work for basketball but also serve as an iconic fashion statement.

Visit the Sun & Sand Sports Basketball page, See the latest basketball shoe designs worn by celebrities, and explore the latest products to get ready to look your best on the court.