Basketball Crossover – What is it, How to Do it, and Tips to Perfect it

So, you want to be a basketball star? Many skills and personality characteristics are required for those who actually achieve their basketball dreams.

Athleticism and perseverance can take the novice a long way towards their professional goals, but no player has risen to the top of their game without mastery of game skills and effective ball handling.

There are a few dynamic basketball moves that can earn a player not only the respect of fellow players, but notoriety and the recognition of fans. Arguably, the most well-known of these unique moves is the crossover. Expert performance of the crossover shows a player’s ability to the highest level, exhibiting quickness, finesse and creativity.

Effective Ball Handling Is A Must

A good crossover requires a lightning fast dribble to opposite hands, in addition to superior faking skill and the ability to rapidly change direction, even while calculating your opponent’s next move. If you are a novice, still attempting to figure out how to do a crossover, below is a step-by-step primer to put you on the path to baffling even savvy defenders with your “ankle breaking” crossover moves!

Remember that an effective crossover must be done with both control and speed. After mastering the steps, practicing both these aspects is important to achieve mastery.

How To Do A Crossover In Six Steps

Step 1

Upon approaching your defender, dribble the ball with your dominant hand.

Step 2

Pause within a few feet of your opponent, making sure to keep him from stealing the ball.

Step 3

Watch your defender for subtle signs of directional movement as you fake in your dominant direction (towards your dribbling hand). Signs that he has taken the bait may be a shift in balance, facial movement or body movement in the direction you want him to go. Move your dominant foot approximately 1′ to 1 1/2′ towards your dominant direction. This will make your opponent believe you are committed to your direction. He will direct his momentum accordingly.

Step 4

Whether your “fake” includes a shift in your own weight or a hard bounce of the ball, your next move is critical. You can perform an effective “fake” by moving your body inward, as you dribble towards the outside. You must move away from the direction of your opponent in order to be ahead of him, as you drive for the basket. You must maintain concentration in the middle of your defender’s body. Do not lose your focus.

Step 5

Be as aggressive as possible as you approach the basket. Speed and control is what makes a good crossover so difficult to defend.

The Final Step In How To Do A Crossover

Step 6

Do not look at the ball when performing a crossover. You must not give away your real direction or look away from your opponent.

The subtle nuances of a killer crossover move can take a long time to perfect, but mastering this popular offensive move will gain you more playing time and the star recognition you’ve worked so hard to achieve. In the end the key is practice, effective ball handling which you develop over time and a willingness to never give up. Programs like Effective Ball Handling 2.0 can also help and you can check that out by clicking the link below. I hope this article on how to do a crossover helps your game.

The Secrets Of A Killer Crossover

The basketball crossover is one of the most talked about moves on the court. Executed properly, the crossover can bring fans to their feet and opposing players to their knees.

Affectionately called, “the ankle breaker,” a great crossover can leave your defender baffled and embarrassed.

As with all the other awe-inspiring moves in the game, developing a true killer crossovertakes time and effort, not to mention a few tips from gurus of the hoops. Below are a dozen tips to help you master the art of the “killer crossover.”

12 Killer Crossover Tips

1.) Practice, to become adept at ball handling and control with both of your hands. Your opponent may approach from either side, so you must be able to move rapidly and effectively, no matter your opponent’s position. You must be able to step and fake decisively from either foot.

2.) Concentrate your awareness on your defender’s center of balance at all times. Make a mental note of any movement belying directional momentum. Move immediately when you notice your defender’s weight shift. Keep your eyes on the center of his body and his hip area.

3.) Keep your shoulders low.

4.) Once you have committed to your own direction, move rapidly, decisively and aggressively. Move as explosively as you can when making your break towards the basket.

5.) Use your head and facial expression to fake your opponent into believing that your plan is to move in the direction opposite your real intention.

6.) Keep your dribble low to maintain better control and use less distance to cause the ball to cross to your other hand. You will automatically dribble higher when you make your breakaway move. Fake your drive by dribbling a few times to your dominant side with forceful bounces.

7.) Bend your knees, bringing your body to as low a position as possible. You may be able to fool your opponent by faking a direction change before you even bounce the ball.

8.) When your defender goes low, step delicately towards him, while bouncing the ball hard.

9.) As you begin your crossover, attempt to maintain at least three feet between yourself and your opponent.

10.) Make sure your receiving hand is in proper position to catch the ball as you bounce it from one side of your body to the other.

11.) You must have strong ankles and nimble hands to perform an effective crossover.

12.) Remember that every crossover is a little different from any other. This is what makes this move stand alone, along with the historic players that make it happen.

Who’s Ankles Will You Break First With Your Killer Crossover

With practice and perseverance, you can dazzle the crowd, in the tradition of Pete Maravich, Tim Hardaway, Bob Cousy and Allen Iverson. Make the crossover your own, and excel at dodging your quickest defender!

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