Better Basketball's Better Passing

The pre-Titanic Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jim Carroll, the poet and musician who spent much of his adolescence addicted to heroin and shooting hoops with fellow Catholic high school kids. As a biography, the film doesn't amount to more than the sum of its gritty scenes of smack use, violence, perversions (poor Bruno Kirby plays a lecherous coach who comes on to young Jim), and the usual scream-and-puke dramas that go along with a cold-turkey session. Director Scott Kalvert doesn't seem to realize that most people don't know who Carroll is and therefore can't possibly understand why they should care about his gutterball youth. DiCaprio, having nowhere to go with his performance but maintain Carroll's tailspin, is boring and redundant. Some kind of allusion to the literary and rock & roll life that follows the mess we're watching might have been helpful. --Tom Keogh

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1999 Ncaa Basketball Championship: Yes Uconn [VHS]

The University of Connecticut Huskies weren't expected to advance far in the 1999 NCAA basketball tournament, but their determination paid off as they bested all opponents and wound up making their first appearance in the Final Four. This official 1999 NCAA championship video follows their dream odyssey through the tournament, which climaxed with the final game against the team favored to win, the powerhouse Blue Devils of Duke. UConn's battle to ultimate victory in the tournament didn't end until the final seconds of the final game, when the Huskies beat back last-ditch scoring attempts by the Blue Devils. Relying on highly professional camera work and exclusive interviews with UConn coach Jim Calhoun as well as with the players of his Cinderella team, the video manages to preserve the excitement of March Madness. Any fan of college hoops will appreciate this video's method of telling the great story of feisty UConn going the distance, and for fans of the Huskies, the tape will no doubt be considered a vital souvenir of the dream season that ended with the upstarts being national champs. --Robert J. McNamara

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Competition Basketball Goals - The First Team 187D

When you go shopping for a basketball goal, you may find that it is surprisingly complicated. There is a very large selection of brands to choose from, naturally. What you may not know, however, is that there is also a very large selection of different types of basketball goals to choose from. Many of these different types of basketball goals are designed to do different things and perform different functions from relatively light use such as free throws only to heavy duty and competition use.

If you are looking to perform extreme stunts such as heavy or repeated slam dunks, a heavy duty basketball goal is probably right for you. These often feature breakaway basketball hoops, designed to bend at the neck in order to transfer load forces from the basketball hoop to the mounting hardware which prevents the basketball hoop from snapping off and breaking. However, if you are only looking for a basketball hoop for occasional recreational use then a flexible basketball goal is probably more appropriate.

A flexible basketball goal has a limited amount of flexibility at the neck and basketball hoop in order to absorb the force of free throws or up to light, occasional slam dunks. However, they are not flexible enough to properly bend with a heavy slam dunk and they may break. Yet they tend to be more economical than breakaway basketball goals while still being durable, and many models of flexible basketball goals are qualified for some types of heavy duty use.

The FT 187D is one such example of a flexible basketball goal designed for more heavy duty use. What sets this goal apart from other flexible basketball goals is its special double rim feature. The double rim, consisting of 5/8 inch thick solid steel rings, naturally adds additional strength to the basketball hoop not found on inferior basketball goals. The rim is designed for very aggressive use on playgrounds and is able to withstand the abuse normally associated with school equipment.

The FT 187D also features continuous net locks to ensure that the net will stay attached to the basketball hoop after extended and heavy use. Dual return springs help the basketball goal absorb heavier loads to prevent structural failure. The totally enclosed flexible mechanism of the rim means that the basketball goal is protected from weather and other forms of corrosion, and needs little maintenance, both important factors for a playground basketball goal.

The goal mounts to most backboards, so switching out to new backboards probably will not be necessary. The durable powder coat finish not only adds an authentic touch to the basketball goal, but ensures that the paint will stay on through years of weather and shots. The goal is designed to look great and keep that look for a very long time.

The FT 187D is also a very easy basketball goal to install. The net and mounting hardware are included, limiting the number of trips you need to the hardware store. With a shipping weight of just 29 pounds, it will not break your back either.

Trey Carter is a creative writer for an athletic equipment store, Top Hoops. They specialize in hoops from residential in-ground basketball goals to institutional systems. You can review the best basketball hoops at their online shop.

Fast-finishing Heat bury Bulls

Updated May 27, 2011 14:16:00

Miami's star players cast off their struggles and staged a furious finish to beat the Bulls 83-80 in Chicago and advance to the NBA Finals series.

The soaring comeback from a 77-65 deficit in the last three minutes propelled the Heat to the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks, a repeat of the 2006 championship series which Miami won 4-2.

Led by their Big Three of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, Miami went on a closing 18-3 run to stun the Bulls and complete a 4-1 triumph in the best-of-seven series for the Eastern Conference title.

James, who missed nine shots in a row before catching fire at the end, led the Heat with 28 points as Miami swept the last four games after dropping the opener in Chicago.

Wade, who committed nine turnovers, contributed 21 points including a key four-point play, and Bosh scored 20, supplying some cushion with the last two free-throw points.

League MVP Derrick Rose topped Chicago with 25 points, but his desperate three-point heave as time expired was blocked by James.

"Defence. Staying together," was James' take on how the Heat overtook the Bulls.

"[We] just buckled down defensively and executed."

The Bulls contributed to their own demise by unraveling in the closing minutes.

They turned the ball over, failed to get off decent shots and allowed Miami a four-point play when Rose fouled Wade as he sank a three-point bucket.

"We've had several of these games in the Playoffs and the regular season where we've finished off with our defense on 12-0, 14-0 runs," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.

"We've been through a lot together. We've been through the fire together."

After James, Wade and Bosh joined forces in Miami by deciding to sign as free agents with the Heat, they became a love-or-hate team in the NBA, even as they went through growing pains in learning how to play together.

They showed they had come of age by charging past the young Bulls, who had beaten them in all three regular season meetings and who had never lost more than two in a row this season.

"It's disappointing," Chicago coach Tom Thibodeau said.

"We came up short at the end. We have to learn from it.

"They have the ability to make tough shots and they're hard to guard. We didn't make shots down the stretch."

The game was a tight defensive struggle similar to the previous four contests with Chicago leading by four after the first quarter, by seven at the half and by five heading into the fourth.

The Bulls, getting a boost from bench players Kurt Thomas and Ronnie Brewer, charged to 12-point lead and looked like they were sending the series back to Miami for a Game Six.

Then the tide turned.

Wade scored two baskets and James sank a three-pointer to end his nine-shot drought and the lead was cut to 77-72.

Wade, who was MVP of Miami's last title run in 2006, canned a three-pointer and was fouled by Rose. The free throw completed a four-point play that made it 79-76.

James drained another three to tie it at 79-79. His step-back jumper amazingly put Miami in the lead with a minute left.

Rose was fouled on a drive to the hoop and missed one of his two free throws to make the score 81-80, before Bosh sank two for the final margin.

The big-game finish by James and Wade, who had proclaimed they were joining forces to win championships, drew grudging respect from the Bulls.

"Give credit where credit is due," Chicago centre Joakim Noah said.

"They're Hollywood as hell, but they're still a hell of a team."

Miami has home-court advantage in the finals and will host Game One at the American Airlines Arena on Wednesday (AEST).

-Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

First posted May 27, 2011 13:43:00

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NBA Playoffs: Eastern Conference Finals

By Adrian Crawford

Posted May 27, 2011 20:13:00
Updated May 27, 2011 20:27:00

They say lightning never strikes twice in the same place but here we are, staring down the barrel of a rematch of the 2006 NBA Finals between Miami and Dallas. Neither franchise has been back to the big dance since they met five seasons ago but both rosters have evolved considerably since then. Let's take a look at how the Heat got there.

Chicago (1) v Miami (2)

Series outcome: Heat 4-1

Writing as a former Cavaliers fan jilted by LeBron James 10 months ago when he departed for the tropical surroundings of south Florida, it's tough to concede that his much-maligned move is paying off and Miami is in unstoppable form as a result. The Heat made a shaky start to their 2010/11 campaign despite the coming-together of James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh but the Eastern Conference's newest "Big Three" have figured it out in a big way. What was expected to be a team capable of an offensive blitzkrieg every single night poured equal intensity into the defensive end of the court as well.

Speaking of defence, it's been the cornerstone of Chicago's season after the club installed former Boston assistant Tom Thibodeau as head coach. Thibodeau was the defensive guru behind the Celtics' 2008 championship season and he earned the NBA Coach of the Year award after guiding the Bulls to their first division and conference titles since the Michael Jordan era and a league-best 62 wins, equalling a league record for wins by a rookie head coach. One of the Bulls' other weapons through the regular season was their offensive rebounding - led by Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer, they grabbed an average of 11.8 boards on the offensive end per game with a 1.7-rebound differential over their opponents.

And as things turned out, it was second-chance points and dominance on the offensive glass that helped Chicago to a 1-0 series lead after Game One at the United Centre. The Bulls ripped down 19 offensive boards to Miami's six, scored 23 more second-chance points and crushed the Heat by 21. Luol Deng put up 21 points (including four three-pointers), seven boards and his defensive lockdown on an unusually flustered-looking James made Chicago's doubters sit up and think "these guys have got what it takes to make the Finals". Regular season MVP Derrick Rose had 28 on 10-of-22 shooting and added six assists, but the series opener was the last time the Bulls point man would make better than 45 per cent of his field goals.

Rose's shooting woes continued throughout the next four games, in which he went 32-for-98 (32.6 per cent) from the floor and even worse (4-for-23, 17.39 per cent) from long-range as his side lost the next four straight games - which was a big deal in itself considering Chicago never lost more than two in a row all season. It was unreasonable to expect Miami not to come out swinging hard to avenge the series-opening loss and it did so, stealing home-court advantage behind James' 29-10-5 night and Wade's 24. The defensive chokehold the Bulls had over the Heat's scoring threats seemed to have eroded overnight and by the end of Game Three, when Chris Bosh silenced the number one seeds with a 34-point night, Miami was moving full speed towards the Finals.

The Heat needed an extra period to push the Bulls to the brink of elimination with an overtime win in Miami in Game Four but the series could have been 2-2 if not for two missed Rose field goals from 17 and 18 feet with the chance to break the 85-85 deadlock as the clock ticked down. Wade and James had six each in overtime and Bosh added four more to give Miami the chance to close things out in Chicago on Thursday night. The visitors did just that in a surprising late comeback, erasing a 12-point margin in the final three minutes to clinch the Eastern Conference Championship with an 83-80 win. Wade struggled from the field early but he and James were both firing on all cylinders, orchestrating an 18-3 run to end the series on their terms.

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out the key to the Heat's offensive success was their Big Three - James, Wade and Bosh accounted for an average of 67.8 of Miami's 89.4 points per night. But Miami's bench players have acted as energy guys on both ends of the floor - most notably the fit-again Udonis Haslem in the paint and guards Mario Chalmers and Mike Miller playing cameos at the perimeter. Joel Anthony is still playing big minutes and while he offers virtually nothing in points or rebounds, his shot-blocking (2.07bpg this postseason) is a valuable asset.

Perhaps the most telling individual statistic to come out of the series was that Rose's assist numbers (6.6apg) dipped from his regular season average (7.7apg) while his field goal attempts skyrocketed from 19.7 a night to 24.0 ... but his makes dropped from 8.8 to 8.4. If that's too many numbers to process, it can be said that the 22-year-old former number one overall draft pick opted to take on much of the offensive responsibility himself, but struggled under the defensive attention of James and the Heat and tried his best to shoot his team back into each contest. His free throw numbers stayed largely the same due to Rose's propensity to drive in traffic to the basket but again Miami got its stops where it counted.

Rose averaged a team-best 27.1ppg for the postseason but the nearest Bulls contributor was Deng (16.9 a night), while Boozer was impotent with the ball in his hands. A career .537 shooter, Boozer's field goal percentage plummeted to .407 against Miami and despite back-to-back double-doubles in Games Three and Four he was unable to give Chicago the consistent second scorer it desperately needed. With that said the Bulls shouldn't go home discouraged that their season ended prematurely. After all, they made it to the Eastern Conference Finals with a rookie head coach and a roster that had only played in that system - and together, more importantly - for one season. Chicago will likely take a lot out of the series loss and as the cast and crew all find their grooves with each other, so should postseason success.

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

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Miami makes NBA finals

Published:Friday, May 27, 2011 7:24 AESTExpires:Thursday, August 25, 2011 7:24 AEST

Lebron James has led the Miami Heat to a 83-80 victory against the Chicago Bulls to make the National Basketbal Association finals.

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Tags: basketball, united-states

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Win More Basketball Games With Effective Passing - Passing Tips for Basketball Success

Many teams fail to reach their potential due to a deficit in the basic skills needed in basketball. One of these basics is effective passing. By sharing insight in the art of good passing, this article aims to help basketball players and teams decrease their number of turnovers and win more games by providing specific philosophies and approaches when examining the elements of effective passing.

When examining the important elements of team offense, many basketball players and coaches overlook the role of passing. Passing the basketball reflects the link that unites a team on offense. Effective passing can allow any player the ability to score. And, when not done properly, many turnovers represent a direct result of bad passing. Thus, it is sensible to accept that improving one's ability to pass, would certainly lead to a greater scoring potential while lowering the rate of turnovers on the basketball court.

Let us first examine various elements of good basketball passing. To adopt any one of these tips should lead to immediate improvement for any basketball team that desires to win more games.

1. FOCUS. More important than passing the basketball, is to deliver it. Every player and coach has witnessed turnovers occur due to bad passing. Only to release the basketball in the direction of a teammate is not enough to be successful The great tool of passing becomes useless or self-defeating unless it arrives into the hands of a teammate. For this reason, a player must demonstrate focus to deliver the ball to its target and practice passing with this mental attitude. Without this concentration, when facing a determined opponent, the basketball can be taken by anyone - defender or teammate. However, once one responsibility of the pass is assumed by the passer, a team will progress to greater success by taking an important step towards good passing habits.

2. CATCHING. Once the ball is thrown and arrives at the proper place at the proper time, can the player receiving the pass catch it? We have often seen games when a team has worked hard to break through a tough defense, and the player open to shoot the high percentage shot, drops the pass and commits a turnover. These things can demotivate an entire team. For this reason, it is important for players to commit to do a few things to avoid these situations. Often, instead of being focused on catching, these players are thinking about what to do with the basketball after it is caught. Sometimes, they feel nervous from the pressure of making mistakes. Or, quite often, they try to catch the ball with one hand and not both.

If these things are happening to you or your team, try to replace these harmful habits. Always aim to provide a target with your hands in order to communicate to others where you want to receive the ball. The next time you see a basketball game, watch how often offensive players have their hands and arms at their sides. I am sure you will see that the best teams have better habits of showing the desired passing target. Therefore, Coaches, insist a, "No target, no pass!" policy for your players to reinforce this successful habit.

Once the pass is made, concentrate completely on getting control of the ball and, follow through to use both hands to catch it. Even a post player with one hand ready to catch, will achieve greater success if she or he were to follow through with the second hand upon catching the ball.

To alleviate the nervousness, focus with all of your mind on getting the ball under your control. We can think of only one thing at a time. And, instead of thinking about what to do next, or what could go wrong, direct your mind on the task at hand and catch the ball.

Thus, to improve catching the basketball, give a target, focus on ball control and use both hands. These three things, if put in use, can lead to greater achievement for any team.

3. POSITIONING. Often on offense, players stand still and avoid moving with the progress of the ball. I explain to my players, "If you want to watch, join me on the bench. But, if you want to play, remain in constant movement with the ball." Sometimes, players abandon the person who has the ball, making it more difficult for him or her to pass. Other times, players find themselves in the wrong positions because they do not know the offensive system or they have not focused on what is happening. Thus, these players are not seen or stand in difficult places causing the ball handler to avoid passing them the basketball. This situation can easily turn to an advantage for the defensive team. To eliminate this problem, players should understand the team's system and always move to a position were the ball handler can make a good passes.

4. BEING PREPARED. Very often, players run onto offense or defense with their backs to the ball. They often do not see the ball and are not ready to receive it when it comes. In these cases, the ball is passed, but stolen by an opponent. In Basketball as in life, we have to be ready when luck comes our way. I have seen players with a ball, ready to pass the ball to a player in an advantageous position, but the player is not focused on the ball and misses this golden opportunity. To avoid these situations, every player must see the basketball at all times. The one who sees the ball, stands a better chance to catch, shoot, or even steal the basketball.

As one can see, effective passing is a powerful weapon in basketball. The best teams usually have the best passing game. Lacking this basic skill can hinder a basketball team from reaching its potential. However, by adapting these tips in regards to focusing, catching, positioning and preparation, any player or team should see immediate results leading to less turnovers and greater success on the basketball court.

Jorge Moreno is a basketball coach in the Southeast Regional basketball league. Coach Moreno reflects a strong commitment to individual development and greater success in basketball. To read the latest tips to improve your basketball game, visit Coach Moreno's site at: http://www.squidoo.com/basketball-training-online

2002 NCAA(r) Division I Men's Basketball Championship - Maryland vs. Indiana

The Maryland Terrapins become national champions for the first time in school history after beating Indiana 64-52. Maryland's Juan Dixon scored 18 points and was honored as the tournament's most outstanding player. Teammate Lonny Baxter also contributed to the effort with 15 points and 14 rebounds.

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Basketball Hoops - Consider the FT192 Breakaway Goal

You've got a lot of choices in breakaway basketball hoops. Here is a primer on some of the best ones, and their features, so that you can decide which is right for you. One standard recommendation is the FT192. It 's a good, solid breakaway goal. However, some people may require a breakaway basketball system that can withstand greater force loads and more demanding use, or a basketball goal that is built to even greater engineering and design requirements.

If you are one of these people, you should strongly consider the improved FT 192TA goal. Like the First Team's rim, the FT 192TA breakaway basketball rim comes with many features designed to give the basketball goal a professional, authentic look while also giving the basketball goal a durable, long lasting design and construction. However, the FT 192TA goal features many improvements and other key design changes from the FT 192 breakaway basketball goal. These upgrades give the FT 192TA breakaway basketball goal a superior design, making it even more durable, longer lasting and able to take on greater and more punishing basketball stunts as well as your average slam dunk.

For example, the FT 192TA goal has a "Tuff Tie" tubular net hangar design, replacing the FT 192 basketball goal's continuous net locks, in order to meet these more demanding requirements. One important feature that the FT 192TA goal retains from the FT 192 basketball goal is the important breakaway feature. A breakaway basketball goal is a basketball goal that can bend and flex at the neck joining the hoop to the mounting hardware. This is important because it allows the basketball hoop to transfer heavy loads to the mounting hardware through the next, preventing damage.

A more rigid goal will simply break at the neck under similar heavy loads; the FT 192TA however will simply spring back into position. What makes this breakaway basketball goal different from the original model is that its breakaway tension is fully adjustable, from 170 all the way up to 230 pounds. This gives you - and the basketball goal - greater flexibility depending in the different types of use or level of competition you expect your basketball goal to face up against.

The rim will mount on any standard backboard surface, so mounting this more demanding basketball goal will be little different from a cheaper model. It features a powder coat finish, to match the authentic, professional design and construction with an authentic, professional look that will not only look at home on an NBA court, but will also maintain that look for many years.

The rim is perfect to fit the demands and needs of high school and college level competitions, and meets all NCAA and high school regulations. Like many breakaway basketball goals, an anti-whip net and mounting hardware are included. It matches its superior design and construction, and you should look for it with the five year Superior warranty. One thing that is not superior about the FT 192A is its weight; with a shipping weight of only 26 pounds and a mounting area is 5 inches by 4-5 inches, installing the FT 192TA basketball hoop is as easy as breaking it is difficult.

Author Bill Parsons is the creative writer of a variety of online specialty stores that offer both items and information for all your athletic equipment needs. Today, he offers advice on the benefits of basketball and information on breakaway basketball goals of all kinds. Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor basketball hoops, this site has the hoop for you.

Bosh reacts during Miami's overtime win over Chicago

Published:Wednesday, May 25, 2011 2:20 AEST

Miami's Chris Bosh reacts during his team's 101-93 overtime win over Chicago in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Playoffs in Miami on May 24, 2011.

Tags: sport, basketball

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Heat one win from eliminating Bulls

Updated May 25, 2011 14:45:00

The Miami Heat beat the Chicago Bulls 101-93 in overtime to take a 3-1 lead in the Eastern Conference finals and move one win away from a place in the NBA Finals.

The best-of-seven series moves to Chicago for Game Five on Friday morning (AEST) for what promises to be another bruising but entertaining encounter in what has been a thrilling series.

A compelling and physical game finished 85-85 in regulation after league MVP Derrick Rose missed two late opportunities including a potential game-winner for the Bulls with the final play.

Rose had the game in his hand after an offensive foul was called on Miami's LeBron James with eight seconds left - but he was unable to find the basket.

"Tonight was definitely on me. I had two opportunities to end the game. I couldn't do it...it really was my fault but I am going to learn from it," said Rose, who made 23 points but gave up seven turnovers.

"It is not over yet - we still have games to play, we are going home, we have to be positive and they are beatable."

The MVP's game was made more difficult by James opting to mark him in the crucial latter stages and overtime, with the attention making Rose's final shot in regulation so difficult.

Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau was quick to give his backing to the 22-year-old Rose.

"He missed but I wouldn't want to have any other player, he is a great player and a great competitor and I have great belief in him," he said.

The Heat, with James (35 points) taking charge on both sides of the ball, dominated in overtime and extended their post-season home record to 8-0.

The loss was the first time this season the Bulls have lost three successive games.

Dwyane Wade had a quieter than normal game for Miami until overtime when he suddenly found the touch and rhythm that had been absent.

He produced a crucial jump shot to make it 91-88 and then made a driving lay-up on a turnover to extend the lead to six points before making a key block.

"The most important thing is that he was able to make game-winning plays at the end. It took great mental fortitude for Dwyane to leave the rest of his frustrations behind and find a way to help us win," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.

While the focus was inevitably on the final stages of the game, the encounter had ebbed and flowed from the outset with both teams enjoying spells of dominance where they showed their strengths.

The Bulls led by 11 points in the first quarter but then James led a 14-0 run from Heat that got them back into game.

Chicago responded though with Rose making two sensational dunks as the Bulls fought their way to lead 46-44 at half-time, which they continued in the third to take 68-63 lead before the dramatic fourth unfolded.

- Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

First posted May 25, 2011 14:08:00

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Basketball Goals - What is a Breakaway Basketball Goal?

Shopping for a basketball goal can be a surprisingly complicated experience. If you have already shopped for basketball hoops, you have no doubt discovered that there are many questions you need answered. For example, there are many different types of basketball goals, such as freestanding basketball goals and basketball goals that require being mounted onto a surface.

When you go shopping for a basketball goal, many other questions should come into mind as well. You may also wonder what kind of basketball goal height is right for you, or what kind of basketball goal brand to purchase. For example, there are also other different types of basketball rims, such as breakaway basketball goals. Finally, there are many different brands to choose from. With many different brands and types to decide between, selecting a goal can be a confusing challenge, and you will no doubt have many questions.

There are a few types of hoops available for purchase, and one you should strongly consider is the goal. The first question you will probably (and naturally) have on your mind is what exactly is a breakaway basketball goal? A breakaway basketball goal is a type of basketball goal that is designed to flex or bend at the neck, where the hoop connects to the rest of the mounting hardware.

This type of rim is very popular because the basketball hoop's ability to bend allows it to transfer the energy from a slam-dunk from the basketball hoop, through the neck, and into the mounting hardware, thus saving the basketball hoop and preventing the hoop and the neck from snapping off the mounting hardware. This means that a single goal can last for a very long time and can endure repeated slam dunks or other stunts that would break other types of basketball goals. Because of its durability, breakaway basketball hoops are very popular, and are highly recommended.

You'll find many different types of breakaway basketball hoops designed to fit any range of use or budget. The FT 190, for example, is a very economical choice for a breakaway basketball goal to be mounted above a driveway. It is also durable and capable of lasting for many years, and meets all NCAA and high school specifications, so the FT 190 meets competition levels.

Another model, the FT 192 features many of the same design and construction features as the FT 190, but features a positive lock mechanism and a longer warranty. The FT 192TA is an improvement on the FT 192, able to meet heavier demands and heavier use. The breakaway feature of this goal is fully adjustable, from 170 pounds all the way to 230 pounds.

It also features the "Tuff Tie" tubular net hanger design. The FT 194TA is a very tough and durable design, and you should be able to purchase it backed by a Lifetime Superior Warranty if the basketball goal is kept to indoor use. Look for breakaway basketball rims that feature durable powder coat finishes and all that meet NCAA and high school specifications. This will ensure that your basketball hoops and goals are a lifetime investment you won't regret.

Author Bill Parsons is the creative writer of a variety of online specialty stores that offer both items and information for all your athletic equipment needs. Today, he offers advice on the benefits of basketball and information on breakaway basketball goals of all kinds. Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor basketball hoops, this site has the hoop for you.

Swish 2 Basketball Shooting

A remarkable two-hour DVD showing in great detail how to learn and coach basketball shooting. This is Tom Nordland's masterpiece! It simplifies the process of great shooting. It teaches players to coach themselves, the only way it's really going to work. This is considered by many to be the best shooting video ever! (visit swish22.com)

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Bulls' Noah fined for gay slur

Posted May 24, 2011 10:03:00

Chicago Bulls centre Joakim Noah has been fined $US50,000 for yelling an insulting remark, believed to be a gay slur, at a spectator in Miami during his team's recent NBA Playoff loss.

Television cameras showed Noah appearing to say "faggot" after sitting down on the bench early in the opening quarter of Miami's 96-85 triumph, which gave the Heat a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference best-of-seven final.

"I apologise," Noah said.

"The fan said something to me that I thought was disrespectful and I got caught up in the moment and I said some things that I shouldn't have said.

"I was frustrated and I don't mean no disrespect to anybody. I just got caught up."

The fine imposed by the NBA was half the amount handed to Los Angeles Lakers playmaker Kobe Bryant last month by the league for saying the same thing to referee Ben Adams during a game.

A league spokesman said the higher amount of Bryant's fine came because he was verbally abusive to an NBA game official.

Noah met with NBA officials before he was fined for his remark to the taunting Heat supporter.

"I don't want to hurt anybody's feelings," he said.

"Anybody who knows me knows that I'm not like that. I'm an open-minded guy.

"I said the wrong thing and I'm going to pay the consequences - deal with the consequences - like a man.

"I don't want to be a distraction to the team right now."

Noah also said he would learn from his mistakes and his frustration did not excuse his remark.

"I'll remember," Noah said.

"I'll remember it for a long time."

Bulls forward Luol Deng of Great Britain supported Noah, saying the fan made his own disrespectful comments to the Bulls' bench.

"It wasn't just one time or two times," Deng said.

"He just kept going and it became really annoying. (Noah) just lost his temper."

NBA commissioner David Stern said last month that "such a distasteful term should never be tolerated" and added "insensitive or derogatory comments are not acceptable and have no place in our game or society".

-AFP

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

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The #1 Basketball Training Mistake - Avoid Making It!

Since basketball's become more popular, a lot more people are doing focused basketball training and basketball drills. Many, however, could be gaining a lot more from their training than they actually do. Are you making this mistake?

What is the basketball training mistake that I'm speaking of? It's not training at High Intensity.

Take into consideration this common example: A player is a very good shooter when just shooting around, in warm-ups, in his or her driveway, etc., but for some reason, when they get into a game they can't buy a bucket. What is the common factor for these players? When they practice shooting they take more time than actual game situations allow. How can someone expect to make game-type shots when they don't practice game-type shots?

Before going further, though, let me clarify this: When first starting out in basketball training, then yes, you need to take it slower to get the proper form down or the feel for the ball when doing ball-handling drills, etc. But, once you have the basics down, then you need to start training at game speed.

This is actually my #1 basketball tip: to play and train at high intensity. Makes sense, right? The #1 tip should be to avoid the #1 mistake! Not only that, but basketball is a high intensity sport. If you want to train to be better at it, then you need to train for simulated game situations. This, again, means training at high intensity and high speed. If you practice shooting by staring at the rim for 5 seconds and with no hand in your face, then what's going to happen when you have 1 second and someone closing out on you?

Shooting's not the only situation, though. Similarly, if someone starts to pressure you and all you've done is practice dribbling while stationary, then how do you expect to dribble around them to get to the rim for an easy bucket?

So, now that I've probably repeated myself too many times, go out and take this basketball advice: go out and perform your basketball training at game-speed. This applies to all non-weight training done for basketball, whether it be working on your skills like dribbling and shooting, or doing conditioning or speed and agility training. The same principles apply either way: If you're not conditioning at high intensity then you could be getting in better shape; if you train for lateral quickness and don't train quickly, then you're slower than you should be.

I could obviously go on and on, but I think you get the idea by now. So, get out there and (once you have the fundamentals and form down) begin your high-intensity basketball training!

About the Author
Shawn Baune is a full time profit analyst and former basketball player. He has a passion for basketball and still plays on a regular basis in his spare time, gaining respect from others on the court. Perhaps an even bigger passion, though, is sharing (especially with his nephew) his basketball tips on what he's learned. These basketball tips come through Shawn's experiences, research, and mistakes made in basketball training.

Shawn has also been developing http://www.basketball-tips-and-training.com in his spare time to help share his passion for basketball. If you found the article helpful, there are plenty more free basketball tips where that came from at his site, including training tips at http://www.basketball-tips-and-training.com/basketball-training.html

? basketball-tips-and-training.com
Reproduction allowed with credit to website

Mavs comeback silences Thunder

Updated May 24, 2011 15:22:00

Dallas has produced a remarkable comeback to beat Oklahoma City 112-105 in overtime, with Dirk Nowitzki draining 40 points and pushing the Mavericks within one win of clinching a place in the NBA Finals.

The Mavericks lead the series 3-1 and can secure a place in the championship play-offs against the Miami Heat or the Chicago Bulls, with a victory in game five in Dallas on Thursday (AEST).

Dallas had not lead at any stage in regulation and was 15 points down with just over four-and-a-half minutes remaining in the fourth quarter in Oklahoma City.

"One thing about this team all year, they've been resourceful, they keep on believing, and we've been extremely opportunistic," Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle said.

"The way they hung in tonight was just fantastic."

While Dallas never lost faith in their ability to comeback, the Thunder looked a different side completely on offense after the influential James Harden fouled out with 4:34 remaining.

Dallas then finished with a 17-2 run with the magnificent Nowitzki producing two free throws in the final seven seconds as the game was tied at 101-101 after regulation.

In overtime Dallas took control over a demoralised Thunder, a three pointer from the excellent Jason Kid, with 40 seconds left on the clock, proving decisive.

The Thunder, who only came into existence in 2008 after the Seattle SuperSonics moved to Oklahoma City, looked dejected during time-outs in the latter stages - their body language betraying the shell-shocked state of a youthful team.

"Our youth is not an excuse," said Thunder top-scorer Kevin Durant, who made 29 points but also had nine of Oklahoma City's 25 turnovers.

"We just weren't making shots and they were.

"I feel upset because I feel I let the fans down, let the city down.

"We have to come back and push hard and try to bring it back to OKC."

Nowitzki's 40-point performance was his second in this series and included 14 on 15 free throws and some outstanding turnaround jump shots.

Durant and the Thunder started with impressive intensity and led 31-22 after the first quarter, but Dallas fought back with the seven-foot tall Nowitzki making 17 points in the second quarter.

"We kept believing, we got some rebounds at last, that had been killing us," Nowitzki said.

"We got some great stops in the last couple of minutes.

"We are happy with this win but it's not over yet."

-Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

First posted May 24, 2011 14:52:00

View the original article here

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Nowitzki goes up for a shot against the Thunder

Source:Christian Petersen, Getty ImagesPublished:Tuesday, May 24, 2011 3:03 AEST

Dallas's Dirk Nowitzki (R) goes up for a shot against Kendrick Perkins of Oklahoma City in Game Four of the Western Conference Finals at Oklahoma City Arena on May 23, 2011.

Tags: sport, basketball

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Add Some "Magic" to Your Basketball Game by Learning the Fundamentals of Passing a Basketball

What do Pete "the Pistol" Maravich and Magic Johnson have in common? If you answered that they were both great play makers and masters at passing the basketball, then you would be correct. If you would like to become an elite basketball player, it is essential that you master the fundamentals of passing a basketball. Why? It is very difficult for any basketball player to compete and succeed at the highest level--especially if he would like to win championships--if he does not learn how to pass a basketball effectively to his teammates.

Basketball is a team sport. Unfortunately, a lot of basketball players, make the mistake of thinking that they can win games and championships by solely outscoring their opponent(s). Not a single basketball player, since the invention of basketball by James Naismith in 1891, has ever won a championship without involving his teammates--that is over 100 years and counting! Even Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, did not win his first NBA championship ring until after he learned how to "share" the basketball with his teammates by creating scoring opportunities not only for himself but also for his teammates--in essence, he improved his basketball passing skills. In a nutshell, great basketball players know how to pass the ball. With that said, there are different type of passes that you can make as a basketball player: Bounce Pass, Chest Pass, Overhead Pass, Underhand Pass, Baseball Pass, and the Hook Pass. Each type of pass is useful for different game situations. And, you as a basketball player should definitely try to master all the different type of basketball passes. However, only the chest pass will be covered in this article.

How To Make A Chest Pass

The chest pass is one of the most important passes in basketball. To make the chest pass, do the following:

1) Place one hand on either side of the ball, fingers spread evenly and loosely;

2) Hold the ball in front of your chest;

3) Pull your hands together until your thumbs are about four inches apart; and,

4) Keep your el­bows close to the body.

How To Make A Chest Pass To A Teammate

1) Step directly toward him with either foot;

2) Thrust your arms toward him until they are fully ex­tended; and,

3) At the end of the arm thrust, press your thumbs downward, snap your wrists up slightly and turn the backs of your hands toward each other.

Note:

The ball should be drilled at some point between your teammates shoulders and waist. As the ball travels, it should have good back spin.

Reasons why the chest pass is effective

The chest pass is effective for many reasons:

1) It enables a player to easily make a fake before an actual pass.

2) It can be fired quickly.

3) It is accurate.

4) It can be used with good power, cutting down the possibility of interception.

5) It can be used at close and medium range.

6) It can be con­verted into a bounce pass.

The correlation between the success of any basketball player and his ability to pass the ball effectively cannot be emphasized enough. To score in a game of basketball, you must first have an opportunity to shoot the ball. Since there are five opposing players, you cannot always create this opportunity alone. Most of the time, only an accurate pass will lead to a score. This is the epitome of teamwork.

You can find more FREE resources including actual basketball videos on how you can improve your basketball skills by visiting http://www.basketball-drills-and-tips.com

Fired-up Bosh torches Bulls

Updated May 23, 2011 15:35:00

Chris Bosh discarded his 'third man' label to shoot 34 points and lead Miami to a 96-85 win over the Chicago Bulls, giving the Heat a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Bulls paid too much attention to the Heat's usual threats - Dwyane Wade and LeBron James - and that allowed more opportunities for Bosh.

The pick and roll between Bosh and Wade was particularly effective for Miami but the difference between previous wins in the Playoffs and this victory was the amount of times Bosh was given looks.

Miami, now 7-0 at home in this year's Playoffs, were on top from the outset and Bosh, after missing his first three shots, was their key man.

"Bosh was terrific from the start of the game, very aggressive and I thought that we allowed him to get his confidence early," Bulls coach Tim Thibodeau said.

"He is hard to slow down once he gets going like that.

"We gave him too much space, we didn't challenge his shot properly. He had a big night."

With strong defense and Bosh's shooting, Miami never looked in any real danger and led 43-40 at half-time with the Bulls' Derrick Rose failing to make a single assist in the opening two quarters.

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra was delighted with Bosh.

"We run a lot of our offense through him regardless of whether he's getting shots or not," Spoelstra said.

"Tonight dictated something else. We needed him to be aggressive. Easy shots and opportunities in this series are hard to come by.

"He was able to take the pressure off the other guys, to get some baskets, which helped."

James managed 22 points for Miami while Carlos Boozer top-scored for Chicago with 26, but the Bulls will have to show significant improvement if they are to avoid going 3-1 down in Tuesday's fourth meeting of the seven-game series.

The Bulls have not lost two games in a row since February but the Heat defense locked them up again.

Rose, who scored 20 points in the game, had just two field goal attempts in the fourth quarter.

"We have got to get up and challenge their shots better. We have to finish our defense," Thibodeau said.

The game was tighter though than the scoreline suggests as Miami only broke clear in the latter stages with a 9-0 run including a decisive three-point play from James on a turnover.

"There is absolutely nothing easy in this series and it is all about enduring, sustaining and finding a way to grind it out," Spoelstra said.

"It is a battle, a scrap, a fight every possession.

"The guys did a good job of that and particularly to find a way to break it open in the last five."

-Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

First posted May 23, 2011 15:17:00

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A Brief History of Basketball

Modern day basketball can trace it's origins to early December 1891 when Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian physical education teacher and a local instructor at Springfield, Massachusetts' YMCA Training School was desperately seeking an indoor game active and fit during cold, snowy New England winters. After trying several different games and finding them too dangerous or not quite suitable for gymnasiums, Naismith wrote down the essential rules of basketball, incorporating some of the rules of a popular children's game of the era, "Ducks on a Pond," and then nailed a peach basket on an upraised track, ten feet above the playing surface. Of course, since the peach baskets still had closed bottoms, retrieving a ball after a player scored a basket was terribly inefficient - unbelievably, the game had to be stopped for someone to retrieve the ball with a dowel. And although the first official game was played in January of 1892, at the YMCA gymnasium Naismith's handwritten diaries at the time indicate that he was extremely nervous about the new game he invented, fearing that his basketball wouldn't take.

Oddly, in that first official game of basketball, there were nine players on a side and the winning team won a close fought 1-0 battle with a 25-foot shot - on a court barely half the size of the modern day court! By 1897 teams of five had become standard. Around the same time, women's basketball was developed at nearby Smith College when Sandra Berenson, a physical education teacher at the college modified many of the rules for women to play. As it turned out, Berenson was fascinated by the values of teamwork, fair play and vigorous exercise that basketball promoted and began organizing some of the first women's basketball games by 1893. By 1899 Berenson's rules for women's basketball were published and by the turn of the century, she was the editor of A.G. Spaulding's legendary Women's Basketball Guide which spread her version of basketball across the country to countless physical education instructors across the country.

In fact, with the help of many YMCA instructors, basketball was promoted throughout the United States and Canada, paving the way for the game to be established as a varsity sport at many high schools. Sadly (and perhaps ironically), the YMCA began to discourage basketball by 1905, fearing that rowdy; belligerent crowds and rough play distracted from the organization's mission. But that didn't matter much as amateur clubs, colleges, high schools and even several short-lived professional basketball clubs and leagues not only filled in the void but also helped promote the game. Basketball was becoming so popular that the forebear to the NCAA, known as the Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the United States and the Amateur Athletic Union fought for control of the game's rules and of its future.

A little known fact is that during those first decades, basketball was primarily played with soccer balls, which were difficult to dribble. Most games consisted of players passing the ball to each other in order to advance it up and down the court. It wasn't for some time until a ball was specifically designed and made for basketball and frequently basketballs were irregularly made, creating an odd scene for modern basketball fans. It wasn't until the late 1940s when college basketball was becoming insanely popular and viable enough to pave the way for the National Basketball Association's popularity that Tony Hinkle developed the orange basketball that fans are so familiar with. Of course, it should not be forgotten that Naismith was also influential in the promotion and creation of men's college basketball when he became the University of Kansas ' first basketball team. And believably, many of Naismith's first students and disciples became important in the history of college basketball including Amos Alonzo Stagg, Forrest "Phog" Allen, and Adolph Rupp.

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Basketball Goals and Basketball Hoops - What Are the Best Accessories?

Once you make the decision to buy basketball goals and basketball hoops for personal or community use, you may think that the matter is closed. This isn't necessarily the case. Several accessories are available to help you get the most out of your basketball equipment.

If you have decided to buy a basketball goal or basketball hoop with a crank to raise and lower the rim height, you may want to make sure that it stays at the level you have selected. In that case, the FT 12 lock is the solution to the problem. This key operated handle lock can be used on either the 4", 5" or 6" EZ-Crank adjustable goal systems.

A ground anchor kit is available if you buy one of the outdoor basketball goals and basketball hoops offered. In it you will find everything you need to install an EZ-Crank adjustable basketball system, including a template, rebar, hex bolts and J-bolts. A set of instructions has also been included.

Outdoor basketball goals and basketball hoops for outdoor use need to be grounded, and buying a ground sleeve makes the process a lot easier. The sleeves are meant to cement into place and the post fits neatly inside. Eight tension bolts hold the post in place, and the sleeve is buried 36" below the playing surface. The post is then perfectly leveled.

When it's time to practice drills, you will appreciate the fact that you have a ball carrier to keep all of them stored neatly. The casters on all four corners make the unit easy to move into place and back into storage once the game or practice is finished.

What home basketball court would be complete without having lines stenciled in the concrete of your driveway or patio area? Use Basketball Court Stencil Kit FT 20 to paint a free throw line, regulation line and circle on any blacktop or cement surface.

Practice time needs to be used to its best advantage, and you can minimize the time you spend chasing after stray shots and passes by buying the FT 22 Defender Ball Retention Net. This product is designed to promote safety as well as reduce the damage to your neighbors' property and plants. The unit fits on top of all of First Team's pole-mounted basketball goals and basketball hoops. Best of all, you can install it in about 10 minutes and get on with enjoying the sport!

Practicing rebounding skills with the FT 23 Block-Aid. You don't need any tools or ladders to install it; just toss it into place or use a broom handle to lift it up. Made from lightweight urethane, the Block-Aid will help you improve your rebounding skills without damaging the floor or injuring the other people you are playing with.

These accessories for basketball goals and basketball hoops can help you get the most out of these products. When you are thinking about ordering the right basketball goal or hoop for your needs, consider what else you might need to complement it.

Author Bill Parsons is the creative author of a variety of online specialty stores that offer both items and information for all your athletic equipment needs. Today, he offers advice on the different types of basketball hoop accessories.

If you're looking for a new basketball goal, there are many different types and styles to choose from. Click any of the links here and all up the basketball hoop experts.

Bosh shoots over Noah in Miami

Published:Monday, May 23, 2011 3:26 AEST

Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat attempts a shot over Joakim Noah of the Chicago Bulls in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals in Miami on May 22, 2011.

Tags: sport, basketball

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Noah apologises for anti-gay insult

Posted May 23, 2011 15:51:00

Chicago Bulls centre Joakim Noah has apologised for an anti-gay slur made to a Miami Heat fan during his team's 96-85 play-off defeat in the Eastern Conference championship series.

Noah appeared to make an almost identical comment in Miami as the one Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant used to a referee last month - Bryant was fined $US100,000 by the NBA.

"I apologise," Noah said.

"The fan said something to me that I thought was disrespectful, and I got caught up in the moment, and I responded.

"I said some things that I shouldn't have said. I was frustrated and I didn't mean any disrespect to anybody."

While NBA officials declined to comment on the incident, the league has taken a strong stance since the Bryant incident, which was heavily criticised by gay rights groups.

During the game, the league broadcast commercials featuring players urging fans not to use slang terms for gays as insults.

The Heat lead the series 2-1.

New York-born Noah is the son of former French tennis player Yannick Noah.

- Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

View the original article here

Get Your Game on With a Printed Basketball

Who doesn't like playing a game of hoops? Nothing is better than getting out on the basketball court and sinking a few baskets. Companies know how much people love to play basketball, and that is why a lot of companies are using a printed basketball as a promotional item.

There are a couple of good reasons that companies should use basketballs when they are looking for something to promote their business.

People Love Basketball

People love basketball. They love to play it, they love to watch it, and they know that it's a great way to pass the time after school. It doesn't matter what age the people who are the target audience are - people of all ages love basketball.

Different promotional item

Most companies don't think about giving out basketballs. They think about balls like golf balls, bouncy balls, and other types of balls, but a lot of companies don't consider basketballs when they are looking for promotional items.

Now that we know two of the reasons why companies give out a printed basketball as a promotional item, let's see the different ways that a company can use basketballs to promote their business.

Organize a Basketball Game

What is the best way to promote basketballs that are bearing your company's name and logo? Organize a basketball game, of course. Invite people in the community to come out and play or cheer for their favourite team. If it really takes off, you might think about organizing a youth league so that people can play on a regular basis and people will get to know your company and products better.

Donate a Printed Basketball to Schools

Another great way that you can promote your business with basketballs is to donate some of your basketballs to local schools so that they can play with them. If you have enough people who are interested in playing, you can organize a regular basketball game.

Donate Basketballs to Fundraisers

A third great way to promote your company through a printed basketball is to donate them for fundraisers. The organization that is having the fundraiser is going to get the money that they need for their cause and your company is going to be receiving a lot of positive advertisement. People always look kindly on companies that donate their time and their products to help organizations that are less fortunate.

When you look at a printed basketball as a promotional items, you are going to see that there are a lot of great ways that you can promote your business with your printed basketball. They are something that people are going to enjoy playing with and they are going to show that your company wants to take time out for fun and games, that it's not all about making money.

If you want to get the word out about your company, products and services, look into promoting your business with printed basketballs. It's a choice that you are not going to regret, and you will find that basketballs are something that can give your company a little bounce and get the sales rolling in.

Matt Franks is director of Fluid Branding, the UK"s leading online supplier of printed basketball items and other Promotional Products. You can also find a wide range of Eco Friendly promotional products, including Recycled, Organic and Sustainable items at Eco Incentives.

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'Matrix' reloads against Thunder

Source:Christian Petersen, Getty ImagesPublished:Sunday, May 22, 2011 3:20 AEST

Shawn Marion of the Dallas Mavericks goes up for a dunk in the second quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals during the 2011 NBA Playoffs at Oklahoma City Arena on May 21, 2011.

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

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Shooting the Basketball - What it is and How It's Done

The game of basketball is already one of the most popular sports around the world, and it is growing in popularity all the time. With high-profile players like Michael Jordan and Shaquille O'Neal, kids from all backgrounds are gaining interest in the game. Besides their favorite players, fans love to play the game because it is fast-paced and exciting.

Basketball requires speed, strength and stamina, and all of these skills contribute to shooting. The object of the game of basketball is to make baskets, and you can't make a basket without taking a shot. That is why becoming a good shooter is the desire of all basketball players.

The more shots your team makes, the higher your score will be and the better your chances for winning the game. Since shooting is so important to winning, it is no wonder why learning to shoot well is such an important aspect of the game of basketball. In fact, many people think shooting is the single most important of all basketball skills.

The act of shooting is when the player shoots the basketball, the goal being to make it into the net. Most of the time, a basket is worth two points, but if you make a shot from outside the three-point arc, that basket is worth three points.

Types of Basketball Shots

Good shooters are versatile; they can shoot the ball from many places on the court, and they can shoot from a standing position, shoot while running, walking, and even take a shot while jumping. There are several different types of shots in basketball. Here are some of the most common:

The Set Shot. A set shot is usually made from a standing position and is most commonly used during the free throw. The set shot is one of the easiest shots in basketball.

The Jump Shot The jump shot is not so easy, because it is done in mid-air. The higher you can jump while you shoot, the better your jump shot will be. You want to jump as high as possible, because your opponent will be doing their best to block you from making the basket. Take care during a jump shot to make sure you don't get called for a traveling violation.

The Lay-Up A lay-up is done while the player is in motion. The shooting player takes a shot at the net without stopping to take up a shooting position. The lay-up is a great opportunity for your opponent to snatch the ball away, so undertake this shot with caution.

The Slam Dunk The slam dunk is probably the most famous of all shots in the game of basketball. If a player can master the slam dunk, they can become a super star. In a slam dunk, the player jumps up and dunks the ball directly into the net. It's fun to watch and even more fun to do, as long as the ball goes in. An unsuccessful slam dunk is called an air ball.

Ways To Improve Your Basketball Shots

Shooting is one of the most coveted skills in basketball, and there are many ways to improve your shooting techniques. Here are some of the most effective:

Balance The better your balance, the better your chances for making successful shots. Good balance will improve your skill as a basketball player.

Good Hands You use your hands to throw the basketball into the net, and this requires a certain amount of force which needs to be adjusted depending on the circumstances of the shot. Pay attention to the specific details of each shot: distance, height, range, and train your hands to follow through appropriately.

Keep Your Head In The Game Even though you need strength and other physical attributes to be good at basketball, your mental game can be what puts you above your opponents. Pay attention and keep your focus on what is going on in the game at all times.

Shooting is probably the most important skill you can work on if you want to become a basketball great. Follow the tips and pointers above, and you can be on your way to more fun and skill on the court.

Want to find out about basketball moves and basketball offense? Get tips from The Basketball Coach.

Mavs withstand late rally to lead 2-1

Updated May 22, 2011 15:35:00

Dirk Nowitzki and Shawn Marion both scored 18 points as the Dallas Mavericks held on for a 93-87 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Three of the Western Conference Finals.

Jason Kidd finished with 13 points and eight assists for Dallas, which took a 2-1 series lead and managed to hold NBA scoring champion Kevin Durant to just 7-of-22 shooting from the field.

"It was a great defensive effort early on. It set the tone for us," Nowitzki said.

"We just played off our defence and executed well. We had more aggression to our play."

It was the fourth consecutive win on the road in the post-season for Dallas, which tied the Miami Heat for the best road record in the 2010-11 regular season.

Nowitzki struggled early, shooting just 7-of-21 from the field but came on in the clutch for the Mavericks by scoring three key late baskets.

"He's the best, even if he's not making shots early he wants the ball to make a play," Kidd said of Nowitzki.

Jason Terry chipped in with 13 points for Dallas while Tyson Chandler had 15 rebounds, including a half dozen on the offensive end.

Thunder star Durant also struggled at times but finished with 12 rebounds to go with his 24 points.

Russell Westbrook responded to a fourth-quarter benching in the last game to score 30 points.

"They doubled a lot more off pick-and-rolls and post-ups. They made it tough for us," Durant said.

"We have to figure out ways to have a better start."

The Mavericks built a big lead in the first half and at one point led by as many as 23 points before Oklahoma City mounted a comeback.

Dallas also held the Thunder to just 29 per cent shooting from the field in the first half.

Indeed the Thunder struggled with their shooting throughout the game and set a dubious NBA record, missing their first 16 three-point attempts.

They connected on their 17th, and final, attempt with 35 seconds remaining to trim the lead to 88-83.

"Dallas came out and did a great job with their defensive pressure," Thunder coach Scott Brooks said.

"They took us out of our sets and trapped the basketball, just got us playing on our heels.

"I give our guys a lot of credit, they made it a game in the fourth quarter."

Game Four of the Western Conference Finals series will also be in Oklahoma City on Monday.

- AFP/Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

First posted May 22, 2011 15:12:00

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Thunder upset Mavs to tie series

Posted May 21, 2011 16:45:00

The Oklahoma City Thunder, getting a tremendous boost from their bench, beat the Dallas Mavericks 106-100 to level the best-of-seven Western Conference Finals at 1-1.

Kevin Durant, the NBA scoring leader the last two years, scored 24 points to lead the Thunder in scoring but was supported by a mighty effort from the reserves topped by guard James Harden's 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists.

"We have a lot of confidence in James," Thunder coach Scott Brooks said.

"He made plays. He made big basketball plays. He's a spot up shooter, he's a penetrator, he's a playmaker. He's a tremendous player."

The Oklahoma back-ups, outscored by 31 points by Maverick reserves in Game One, manned the floor throughout the fourth quarter alongside Durant and combined to score 50 points in the game.

Harden gave Oklahoma City the lead going into the final period by producing a four-point play at the end of the third quarter when the guard drained a three-pointer and was fouled in the process. After sinking the free throw, the Thunder led 77-76.

A long jumper by Harden padded the lead to 102-92 with 3:15 left, and Oklahoma City withstood a furious fight-back led by Dirk Nowitzki, who had been quieted by some heavy double-team defensive pressure following his Game One eruption for 48 points.

Nowitzki, the seven-foot (2.13m) German jump shooter, scored 16 fourth-quarter points to finish with 29.

"They wanted it more and came out swinging," Nowitzki said after Dallas lost its first home playoff game of this postseason.

Said Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle: "They attacked us, got us back on our heels. I don't remember a game we've won giving up 56 per cent shooting. Give them credit. They played an attacking, desperate game. Their bench was dominant."

The Mavericks led by as many as 11 points in the first quarter before Durant changed the momentum with a thunderous, rim-rattling dunk over Dallas centre Brendan Hayward.

Oklahoma City finished the first quarter trailing 31-26 and surged into a 59-57 at the intermission.

Durant praised the work of the reserves.

"We had a good chemistry going and the coach made a great decision to stick with it," he said.

"They really won the game tonight."

Brooks sat talented starting guard Russell Westbrook, who had scored 18 points, for the entire fourth quarter after he made a turnover at the end of the third quarter and a foul and then fumed on the bench.

Eric Maynor took over for Westbrook and finished with 13 points.

"I thought Eric did a good job," coach Brooks said.

"Russell is an incredible player, our starting point guard. It was his time to come out and I stuck with Eric. He did a great job handling the decisions on the court."

The series now shifts to Oklahoma City for Game Three.

- Reuters

Tags: sport, basketball, united-states

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History of Basketball

The history of basketball is much easier to trace than other sports. It is clear that Dr. James Naismith is credited with creating basketball and much of basketball history. Dr. Naismith, born in 1861 in Ontario, Canada first came up with the concept of basketball during his youth school days in the area where he played a game that involved knocking a rock off an object by attempting to throw another rock at it. The game obviously evolved from there and began the history of basketball.

Mr. Naismith taught at the YMCA School in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1891, where the sport of basketball was created. He was faced with a problem of finding a sport that could be played indoors during the harsh Massachusetts winters. He needed to come up with a game that could be played in and outdoors and one that adopted a sense of skill and not just brawn. He first developed the game by involving a soccer ball and two peach baskets, who would have ever thought basketball history, could come from a soccer ball.

In addition to creating basketball Dr. Naismith became a medical doctor focused on sports science and was a minister. Naismith watched his sport grow to become one of the world's most popular sports that saw its entrance in the Olympics in 1936 at Berlin and he fixed himself a spot in basketball history.

The history of basketball began with teams of five and was the sports standard by 1897. The sport became popular to both men and women and began to spread throughout Canada and the US. The US servicemen took the sport overseas with them in WWII and the history of basketball became global.

U.S. colleges accepted the game and began to have it as a standard college sport. College basketball history took off around the late 1890's and the first college game began at the Madison Square Garden in New York.

Professional basketball history first began when the National Basketball League was created in the late 1800's around 1898. The league however did not last and was broken up after 5 years providing a rough start to basketball history. The break up just led to a number of random leagues forming themselves in the early 1900's and each was very loosely organized. Ironically enough the first super team was the Celtics but they were from New York City not Boston. The famous Harlem globetrotters were also founded around this time in 1927 and hold a place in basketball history as being the most entertaining of basketball teams.

It wasn't until 1949 that two professional basketball leagues the NBL and the BAA merged to create what we all know now as the National Basketball Association or the NBA. The Boston Celtics dominated the NBA from the late 1950s through the 1960s. By the 1960s, professional teams had formed throughout the United States and basketball was a mainstream powerhouse. Players such as Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russel and Kareem Abdul-Jabar all became household names that drew millions to watch them play as they all found a spot in basketball history.

National Basketball Association fell off the charts and was surpassed by football in popularity through the 1970's then got a resurgence from the popular Larry Bird and Magic Johnson era. Michael Jordan carried the league through the eighties and nineties and the torch has been passed on to Shaquille O'neal, Kobe Bryant and Lebron James. The history of basketball has never been so fascinating and it is all thanks to Dr. James Naismith.

Author is from http://recruitcity.com

Gifts For The Basketball Fan

Gift giving can be frustrating. It seems finding the right gift for some people is more difficult than it should be. Some people seem to have everything, so what do you buy them? You also may not want to just buy anything because you want something the person will enjoy and get some use from. You really have to put some thought into it and choose a gift wisely.

When you need to buy a gift for a basketball fan you are in luck. You have a range of great options in basketball gifts. You should find gift giving gets a lot more simple when you are dealing with a basketball fan.

Basketball Themed Gifts

You can seek out any gift that has something to do with basketball. Basketball is popular so you will have many options. You will find basketball shaped bowls and tables. You will find basketball themes on clothing, towels and anything else that can be printed. You will find basketball novelty items and fin things like basketball shaped crackpots.

You are not, limited at all when you seek out to find a basketball themed gift. Go crazy and see what you can find that best suits the recipient.

Actual Gaming Items

You can also think practical. Just buy them something they need for their game. Get them a new net, a new ball, some new shoes. If they are important to you then go the distance. Get their driveway paved or buy them a new basketball system.

Going with actual basketball items you can not go wrong. They will need them, so you are sure they will be happy.

Game Related Stuff

You can also be the big spender and offer up something amazing. You can buy tickets to their favorite team. You can buy memorabilia items. You can work to get a signature form their favorite player. Going all out is what this type of basketball gift is all about and you can be sure that it will be welcomed well.

You should not just focus on finding something basketball related. You also have to keep the basic ideas of gift giving in mind.

- Choose something they will like and find useful.

- Stay within your budget.

- Do not try to out do someone else.

- Give from the heart.

By following these basic gift giving guidelines you are sure to not go wrong. Do not let yourself get too caught up in the idea of giving a perfect gift.

You want to give your basketball fan friend something they will love and if they are a true fan and a true friend, then they will be happy with whatever you choose. Just stick with the basketball idea and you should give a gift they will be crazy about. So, go out there armed with these tips and ideas. Get shopping and buy that gift that is sure to put a smile on your basketball fan friends face.

Really cool basketball hoops are available here. Shop from tons of the best basketball goals and hoops on the market today. Find a basketball hoop for your driveway or indoor college arena, you will find your perfect hoop here.

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How to Build a Basketball Court In Your Own Yard

Some people dream of becoming a doctor, a pilot, or a teacher while others dream of becoming a professional basketball player. If you are entertaining high hopes for yourself or your son in entering a professional league, you need to start practicing as early as possible and all the important basketball training in this world always start at the backyard.

There are two ways for you to build your own basketball court: you can do it from scratch or simply purchase a DIY basketball court kit.

Starting from Scratch

Skills - You need to have intermediate carpentry skills to successfully build your own basketball court from scratch. Firstly, you have to make sure that the ground you'll be building your basketball court on has a smooth even surface to prevent accidents and decrease the risk of injury. Secondly, you'll need to build your own basketball ring. Thirdly, you'll need to paint your own court lines.

Costs - It's possible that you'll enjoy lower costs when it comes to building your own basketball court from scratch. Most DIY basketball court kits include flooring, which would just be an unnecessary expense if you already have an appropriate floor surface for your basketball court. You can also choose your own materials for your basketball stand and ring and even painting materials and ensure that you'll pay less for them.

Production Time - Of course, building your own basketball court from scratch will take a longer time than it would with a DIY kit. This is because instead of simply having to assemble things only as is such the case with a DIY kit, it's entirely a different procedure when you're determined to build one from scratch.

Firstly, you'll have to take appropriate measurements. Secondly, you'll have to go shopping for the necessary materials and tools before you can finally get on to the building part.

Material Sources - You may have a difficult time procuring the required materials for your project especially if you're looking for things that are only sold wholesale in the market.

Using a DIY Basketball Court Kit

Model - Make sure that you're purchasing the correct DIY basketball court kit. Most DIY basketball court kits differ according to court dimensions and whether or not it adheres to NBA or collegiate standards or the likes. Check also if the kit is for half or full court models.

Skills - Basic or moderate building skills are all that's necessary to get your basketball court assembled. You will need however to read instructions carefully and thoroughly because the assembly process leaves no room for errors. Skipping a step can spell danger for you in the long run as it compromises the safety of your basketball court.

Cost - Expect to spend a small amount of money on a DIY basketball kit, although this is certainly money well spent because DIY kits include absolutely everything you need to make your basketball court entirely professional and fit for the NBA!

Tips on Installing Poles for Your Basketball Court

Whether you're building your own basketball court from scratch or using a DIY kit, you'll basically undergo the same process in properly installing your pole.

Firstly, you need to dig an appropriately sized hole for the foundation of your basketball pole. At least one foot and three inches of your basketball pole must be set underneath to ensure its stability. Once you've secured the pole's position, cover the hole with concrete. Make sure it's completely filled and doesn't have any air pockets. Afterwards, fill the pole with concrete as well. When that's done, check if the pole is plumb positioned accurately.

Important Measurements for Basketball Court Building

The NBA and NCAA are both using the same court dimensions: ninety-four feet in length and fifty feet in width. High school basketball courts use the same width but a shorter length at eighty-four feet. Junior high basketball courts are seventy-four feet in length and forty-two feet in width.

Regardless of whether you're using an NBA, NCAA, or Junior High basketball court, you should concentrate more on honing your son's skills in basic basketball skills like dribbling and shooting if you want him fully prepared for a professional basketball career. But most important of all is to ensure that you and your son have fun playing. Shoot for your dreams!

Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.sports-wise.com where you can learn more about your favorite sports and get more tips on building a basketball court.

Basketball Drills for Free

Basketball is a great game to play. It's played with 5 players on each side and requires players to run up and down the court and to constantly switch from playing offense to playing defense. While playing offense and defense there are a variety of tasks players have to do and do well if they hope to have any success. That's why it's important for players to perform basketball drills during practice.

Basketball drills help players develop and polish their skills in specific areas. For example, one drill may help a player learn to pass the ball better while another drill might help a player learn how to play man-to-man defense better. There are countless basketball drills that can be done by players. Coaches can get many of these basketball drills for free.

While there are books that outline many drills, coaches can also get basketball drills for free. Most of the free basketball drills can be gotten over the internet. The internet offers all different types of drills and includes the instructions that are needed to actually run the drill in practice.

One of the best things about the basketball drills for free that are offered over the internet is the fact that there are drills for all ages and abilities. For example, there are drills that teach a player how to dribble the ball (great for beginners) and there are drills that involve complicated drills that teach passing, dribbling, and moving without the ball (best for more experienced players).

The basketball drills for free on the internet are often broken down into categories by what skill they work on. So basketball drills will be divided into categories such as dribbling, passing, and playing defense.

One of the free passing basketball drills that can be found involves the team forming a circle. The players will practice chest passes. All the players will form a large circle and have one player in the middle. One player who's part of the circle will pass to the middle player and then follow his pass (he'll run toward the middle to become the next receiver and passer). Then the middle player will pass to the player to the right of the player who just passed the ball to the middle. That middle player will then drop into the space in the circle that the other player just left.

This is just one example of the free basketball drills offered on the internet. There are many more drills that work on passing and there are also many drills that work on every other skill that basketball players use on the floor.

Basketball drills are very important to developing players' basketball skills. Most of the countless drills that exist can be found on the internet for free. These basketball drills for free are numerous and cover every possible skill that a player will need to develop in order to play well on the basketball court.

Coach Anderson's passion is coaching basketball. You can find more of his free basketball drills on his blog:

http://www.online-basketball-drills.com/

Visit the blog above to discover the 3 basketball drills Coach Anderson NEVER runs with his team.

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Making A Basketball Pass - 17 Tips For Success!

Undoubtedly one of the most important aspects of basketball is passing. In order for a team to move the ball effectively they must be efficient at basketball passing.

Passing is used in almost every part of the game. Let's think about it for a minute. The offensive team uses the pass to advance the ball down-court on the fast break. They also use the pass to move the basketball around in their half-court offense. Various passes are used depending on where and who the ball is being thrown to.

Rebounders use various basketball passes to throw to an outlet player - which is the initial step of initiating the fast-break. Offensive players must use a variety of passes when executing an inbound pass.

It's easy to see how important the pass is to the offensive players on the court. Every player must be able to pass the basketball effectively and efficiently in order to help their team succeed. In order to do this, they must have strong fundamentals and techniques. They must also practice a basketball drills that work on a variety of passes as well as passing situations.

As players practice their basketball passing and as they use the basketball pass during their games, there are certain tips they must be aware of and keep in mind. These are the passing dos and don'ts. Every player must realize the importance these dos and don'ts have on their effectiveness as a passer. The players that are able to implement or eliminate these tips will become extremely successful at basketball passing!

The Dos Of The Basketball Pass:

1. Do make the easy pass.

2. Do hit the open player.

3. Do use fakes before making the pass.

4. Do use an air pass on the fast break - not the bounce pass.

5. Do use the dribble to create better passing lanes.

6. Do pass to the low post from below the foul line.

7. Do use a bounce pass to feed the post.

8. Do follow through on every pass - don't let them float.

9. Do pass with two hands. One handed passes are harder to receive.

10. Do pass away from the defender.

11. Do face the basketball to improve your vision of the court.

The Don'ts Of The Basketball Pass:

1. Don't throw to a teammate's voice.

2. Don't jump in the air to make a pass.

3. Don't pass to a teammate who is in trouble.

4. Don't make a pass to a teammate that will get them into trouble.

5. Don't make a pass from the middle of the court - pick a side and then pass.

6. Don't overpass the ball.

For a free course to help you Dominate The Hardwood and take your basketball skills to the next level, visit http://www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com/improve-basketball-skills.html

About The Author

Joe runs http://www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com, a site dedicated to offering players, parents and coaches the best information, reviews and advice about the game of basketball.

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