Ideally, you want to be in control of the ball before passing it or shooting, but basketball is a fast-paced game and that is not always possible. If you are unable to make a clean pass or get properly set for the shot, tipping the basketball is a good option. Use your fingers to tip -- or deflect -- a pass to your teammate. Missed shots also can be tipped back into the basket.
The Pass
The bounce and chest pass are the most popular -- and safest -- ways to move the basketball on offense. The tip pass is a good option under heavy defensive pressure. When the basketball is knocked away by the defense, the offensive player does not always have a chance to regain possession. Running to the loose ball and tipping it to a teammate is an effective way to pass under duress.
Play It Safe
Tip passes should be used only in emergency situations. When the dribbler loses control or the defense strips the ball, the tip pass can help avoid a turnover. Using the tip pass in a regular offensive set is not smart basketball. The tip pass does not have the speed or accuracy of a bounce or chest pass.
Put It Back
The center and forwards typically are the tallest players on the court, and good size helps tip the ball back in the basket. On a missed shot, jumping up and tapping the ball back in is a good way to score. Catching the missed shot and putting the basketball down on the floor in heavy traffic can result in a strip and turnover.
Take It Away
Tipping the ball can bail out the offense and result in a basket off a missed shot. The defense also can use the tip to shut down a scoring opportunity. Getting a hand out and tipping an offensive pass is a good way to get a turnover. On defensive rebounds, it is not always possible to gain possession of the basketball. Tipping the missed shot to a defensive teammate in better rebounding position -- or back to yourself -- is smart strategy.
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