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.