How to Play Basketball with Standard Technique for Beginners

Basketball is a fun and exciting sport that improves agility, teamwork, and fitness. If you’re a beginner, learning the standard techniques will help you develop a strong foundation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to playing basketball correctly.

1. Basic Stance and Footwork

A proper stance helps with balance and quick movements.

✅ Feet shoulder-width apart – Improves stability.
✅ Knees slightly bent – Helps with quick movements.
✅ Weight on the balls of your feet – Allows faster reactions.
✅ Stay on your toes – Never stand flat-footed.

2. Dribbling (Ball Handling)

Dribbling allows you to move with the ball.

Key Techniques:

• Use your fingertips, not your palm, for better control.
• Keep the ball low (below waist height) to protect it.
• Look up (don’t stare at the ball) to see the court.
• Practice crossovers, behind-the-back, and between-the-legs as you improve.

Beginner Drill:

Dribble in place → Walk while dribbling → Jog while dribbling.

3. Passing the Ball

Good passing is essential for teamwork.

Types of Passes:

1. Chest Pass – Two hands from chest to chest (most accurate).
2. Bounce Pass – Bounce the ball once to a teammate.
3. Overhead Pass – Throw from above your head (good for long passes).

✅ Aim for your teammate’s chest (unless using a bounce pass).
✅ Step into the pass for more power.

4. Shooting (Scoring Points)

Shooting correctly increases accuracy.

BEEF Shooting Method (Best for Beginners):

• Balance – Feet shoulder-width apart, dominant foot slightly forward.
• Eyes – Focus on the rim (or just in front for long shots).
• Elbow – Keep it under the ball, forming an “L” shape.
• Follow-through – Flick your wrist and hold the pose (“Gooseneck” finish).

Beginner Shooting Drills:

• Start close to the basket (layups).
• Gradually move back (free throws, then three-pointers).

5. Defense (Stopping Opponents)

Good defense wins games!

✅ Stay low in a defensive stance (knees bent, arms wide).
✅ Watch the opponent’s waist (not the ball, which can be faked).
✅ Move with quick slides (don’t cross feet).
✅ Contest shots by raising your hands (no fouls).

6. Rebounding (Getting the Ball After a Missed Shot)

Rebounds give your team extra chances to score.

✅ Box out – Position yourself between the opponent and the basket.
✅ Jump with both hands up to grab the ball.
✅ Secure the ball by bringing it down firmly.

7. Layups (Basic Scoring Move)

A layup is the easiest way to score near the basket.

Right-handed layup:

1. Dribble toward the basket.
2. Take off from your left foot (right foot for left-handed).
3. Lift your right knee and shoot softly off the backboard.

8. Rules Every Beginner Should Know

• Traveling – Moving without dribbling (illegal).
• Double Dribble – Dribbling, stopping, then dribbling again (illegal).
• Fouls – Avoid pushing, holding, or hitting opponents.
• Shot Clock – In professional games, you must shoot within 24 seconds.

Final Tips for Beginners

✔ Practice daily – Even 15-30 minutes helps.
✔ Play with others – Improves game sense.
✔ Watch NBA/WNBA games – Learn from pros.
✔ Have fun! – Basketball is about teamwork and enjoyment.

Now You’re Ready to Play! 🏀

Start with these standard techniques, and you’ll improve quickly. Keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy the game!