Basketball is seen as a safer sport than boxing, football or wrestling. In reality, basketball is very much a contact sport, and injuries can often occur from bodies colliding or elbows flying. Basketball players who get hit in the face with an elbow or knee can often end up with a broken nose or damaged eye. Players want to return to the game as soon as possible, but to guard the nose and face, they must often get used to wearing a protective mask.
Step 1
Practice with the mask or nose guard. Practicing while wearing the device enables you to see what restrictions the mask might force on you, such as cutting down vision or hampering breathing. In addition, practice will get you used to shooting, dribbling and seeing the court with the protective gear on.
Step 2
Remove the mask and wipe it clean during breaks in play. Cleaning the mask will help prevent it from getting too hot or heavy from perspiration and give your face time to breath. Pulling the mask up or off while you shoot free throws will enable you to safely shoot your regular shot.
Step 3
Adjust the straps on the mask appropriately. Masks come with straps to loosen or tighten them. A mask that is bothering you will be something you think about, which could hamper your play.
Tips and Warnings
- Measure your face and order a custom-made face mask or nose guard so that it will fit more comfortably and you will get used to it faster. According to Indiana Brace Store, measuring across the face from the inside of one ear to another and from the top of the forehead to the tip of the nose can help you find and size the proper mask.
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