Whether you play offense or defense, the best way to play is instinctively. Sadly, tht is not as common coming in to the sport as it used to be. Here are some ways you can become a better player by learning to play by instinct.

Tip number one: Get out... off the computer OR email and pm a few friends , THEN get off the computer and get out of the house. See if the coach will open the gym and if not, then gather at a park or court somewhere and play some street ball.

Tip number two: Try to get enough players to have some real action and hustle going on.

Tip number three: Play, play and play more. No referees, no coaches (ask the coach to just you let you play your way for a while).

Tip number four: No calling whiny fouls on all the little contacts. This is street ball even if you do get to use the gym. Get tough.

Tip number five: All those moves you have been wanting try, try them now. If you make a mistake or get everyone laughing, no big deal, This should be fun but play like you would if you didn't have to worry about a coach yelling at you or a ref calling a foul because you accidentally bumped into someone.

Tip number six: Don't try to run plays. This is not the time for being organized, it is the time for learning and playing with your heart.

Tip number seven: While you are playing, be more agressive than you might usually be. Follow the ball everywhere, know where it is and be ready to get it. Practice all the things you want to work on, whether it is blocking out, rebounding, shooting layups with your weak hand or anything else.

Tip number eight: If at all possible, play on an outside court, preferably one that is not smooth as glass. Playing in a driveway on gravel or on an outside court that has some cracks in it may not seem very appealing but it will teach you better ball handling skills.

Tip number nine: Always wear appropriate shoes and knee pads. With no referees, it will be a rougher game than a normal game but again this will help you learn to protect the ball better and even more.

Tip number ten: Refer to tip number one and have fun!


See you on the court!