To the novice viewer, basketball might seemed to be dictated by physical talent -- the team with the taller, more athletic players win. But that's not the case. Like any other team sport, success in basketball depends heavily on how well players adhere to the principles of the sport. Smart play can sometimes overcome the more athletic team, just as making stupid errors can negate any such advantages.
Step 1
Dribble with your head up. Inexperienced players and poor ball-handlers tend to look at the ball as they dribble it in order to keep a handle on it. The problem with this is if you're staring at the ball while you dribble, you're unaware of oncoming defenders as well as open teammates. This will cost your team scoring chances.
Step 2
Share the ball. Everyone loves the feeling of making a shot from 3-point range or driving past a defender and laying the ball in, but even the best offensive players don't shoot the ball every time. That doesn't mean you can't shoot frequently when you're on a hot streak or are being defended by a lesser player, but by shooting the ball every time it touches your hands, you make it easy for the opponents to defend your team and it will eventually frustrate your teammates.
Step 3
Secure the ball. Much like a running back in football who carries the ball like a loaf of bread and ends up with a fumble, a basketball player who doesn't value the ball will end up having it ripped away. If you're a big man, keep the ball high when you're in traffic so that small guards can't sneak in and dig it out. If you're a guard, dribble it close to the side of your body rather than extending your arm and bouncing it a few feet away from your body. This, too, makes it more difficult for opponents to steal it.
Step 4
Study the opponent. Film preparation has become an art in competitive sports, and basketball is no exception. Learn your opponents' tendencies on offense and defense so you're not surprised when they decide to double-team you when you have the ball or shed you with a pick-and-roll when you're defending. You might be surprised to see how much more easily you're able to avoid sloppy mistakes when you've figured out what to expect from the other team.
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