We all see these tall basketball players slamming a dunk into the hoop with ease. Have you ever wondered whether they get that tall because of playing basketball or because of their gene?

Many people have wondered that, and to put this question to the rest, we got some proves that might surprised you.

Some Evidence of Increased Growth

Although no such data is stating that basketball makes us taller, some studies indicate the constant jumping motion sends messages to the brain and stimulates growth hormone. Enhancing blood supply to the spine and legs, and then triggers growth pates that are responsible for increasing height.

What does this mean?

This study is not limited to just basketball but can be applied to every sport that involves stretching and constant jumping such as volleyball, swimming, or tennis. This implements that every sport stimulates growth hormones to some extent and will add some inches to your height.

Also Read: Can You Jump Higher With Basketball Shoes? 

How Can We Grow Taller Then?

There are few elements that play a major role in growth, proven by science and a little bit of common sense. And the best part you need to maintain them for a very short time until you are out of your growth phase.

Let’s discuss these elements:

Sleep – So important when growing taller, sleep helps your body to refresh its working. Think of sleep as a payback for your brain to help you use your body. It is no surprise that an 8hr of sleep is a must for all people. It helps you to look fresh as well as keep you healthy.

Healthy Diet – Avoid something that is not healthy to consume or beneficial on your own organs. The research proposed encouraging small children to consume eggs as a source of protein to develop and avoid stunting. Alcohol, smoking, and even coffee should be ignored if possible.

Exercise – Exercise is a must to grow taller, and if you play basketball, then there are no worries as that should fulfill all your daily activity requirements. Moving your body is important in order to grow properly.

Genetics – Unfortunately, we have no control over genetics, but we can grow to our full potential. Even if you have a gene that states that your growth will 6.5 feet, if you don’t provide your body with the right factors, you will not grow to your full potential.

Also Read: Can You Pump Basketball Without Needle?

Conclusion

The short answer to our key query is, YES, basketball does help us to grow, but only when we take other factors to consider too. It is not like if you play basketball, you will be taller, you should have a healthy diet, a good sleep pattern alongside it as well.

Don’t get you hopes up that playing basketball will help you grow 10 inches. It does help, but having a healthy lifestyle helps more. So instead of eating MacDonald’s before a basketball training, try giving some greens a shot.

You might have seen most of the professional basketball players wear specific basketball shoes and also promoting them stating their certain abilities and design. So the question that pops up here is, do basketball shoes make you jump higher?

Well, the absolute answer only depends upon the style, strength, and the techniques a player is implying! Many basketball shoe manufacturers claim that their shoes can help the players to jump even higher than the standard shoes. This allows the players to score more and help them to show off with their unique dunks.

It is true because basketball shoe manufacturers design the shoes with specific materials and integrate basketball-specific mechanism to make it perfect for the players. But this might not be the case for every player! Because many players don’t find any difference, but some enhance their jumping abilities in every way.

The combination of strength and the technology used in the shoes results in the best, unique, and higher jumps. That is why power is the first thing to look out for. So first check out if the integrated technology in your desired basketball shoes fits you or not, then get your hands on it!

Features in the basketball shoes that make you jump higher?

Well, these are the features that can help you to jump higher with your basketball shoes:

1. Springs Integration

This is the most vital aspect in jumping specific basketball shoes, the rest of the things come after this. There are basketball shoes that are integrated with the compressed springs, and they drastically increase the jumping abilities of a player. But be aware that the National Basketball Association has banned these types of shoes because of the enhancements of the skills. So if you are consistently planning to use these in the official games, you might want to change your mind.

Compressed springs integrated shoes stores energy whenever a player steps for a jump, and then release that energy when jumping. This means that the jumping enhancement mainly depends on the strength you put in for a hike. But these springs can also fire back when faking a jump or running with intense pressure. The players can get imbalanced because of the enormous strength of the springs.

So only go for these types of shoes when you are confident that you can handle its strength at your best. Otherwise, the results can be horrible for your playing experience!

2. Material Used

When it comes to reliability and durability, there are certain materials that you can find in your favourite basketball shoes. Manufacturers are using Fabric, Rubber, Leather, Mesh, Neoprene, and some other stuff to design the perfect basketball shoes. These materials can help the users to bare the absolute pressure of their legs when jumping. For this reason, it is particularly convenient for the users to go with the shoes made out of these materials.

Also, check out for the sole material, the best suited for the professionals is the one with synthetic rubber sole. The mesh material is also good for the upper side of the shoe to make it comfortable and durable.

3. Cushions

Cushions certainly play a critical role for the players when jumping, as all of the pressure depends on it. A good cushion can make it easy for the players to jump conveniently. If you are going for the springs integrated cushions, you can surely jump a few inches higher than the normal. But still, the shoes with good cushions quality can cover up for that much height.

There are multiple types of cushions that you can find in the basketball shoes. These types include the Air Zoom, CloudFoam, Bounce, Graphlite, and some other types of cushions. So choose the ones according to your preferences and jumping style.

Also Read: Get Cushioned Basketball Sneakers Here !

4. Design and Structure

A calm and edgy design only offer looks and nothing else. If you don’t go with the basketball shoes with great ankle, toes, and palm support, you might face some severe circumstances when on the court.

That is why it is very best to go for the sturdy materials for your basketball shoes so that it can offer overall comfort to you.

This will not only allow you to jump with your best potential, but you will also be able to move with relaxation.

Conclusion

Enhancing your jumping abilities with certain shoes is not only a myth, but it has become a reality. All of the credits for this goes to the technology. But sometimes, the difference in jumping height is low that most of the players don’t consider it as an improvement. Over time, the players get more used to the shoes and learn how to use them. This will also let them go for the higher vertical angle jumps and hikes. Not only that, but players will also be able to show off their rebounding skills with comfort and style.

If you are wondering how to pump a basketball without needle, then you might be at the right place! It is pretty convenient for the players to pump a basketball without a needle as a needle is not always available. Most of the players don’t even have the basketball pump, which makes it even harder to fill in the air. But there indeed are some ways which you can implement to pump your basketball in no time.

So let’s have a conclusive look at the methods, but be sure that you are using the right equipment. The correct equipment is necessary for these tasks, and it can damage your basketball if not done correctly. So make sure and abide to follow all the steps with a keen eye.

Also Read: Get Better At Basketball Dribbling In Just One Week 

The Methods to pump a Basketball without Needle

1. Use Balloons

Well, we all have balloons in our homes, right? This is the easiest way to fill up your flat basketball and get back to the court with your friends. Balloons can be helpful if you are going to fill up your basketball. But make sure to keep some extra balloons as one might blow up while filling up the basketball. So follow out these steps to fill up your basketball without any needle or pump:

The things you would need:

• Get some balloons (Maybe 2 or 3)
• Get your basketball ready
• Find a paper clip or clamp (Your mother should have that)
• A Straw

Now, the method:

1. Now it is pretty evident that you will have to fill up the balloon with air (Make sure not to fill the balloon with excessive air, or it might blow).
2. Still, remember those paper clips? Clamp it on the balloon to tie it temporarily.
3. Now insert the straw to the air-hole of the basketball and connect it to the balloon.
4. Take off the clamp after connecting it.
5. The air should now be transferred through the balloon to the basketball.
6. You might have to do it for -several times to make the basketball playable.

Also Read: Get Better Grip On Basketball Sneakers 

2. By using the can of compressed air

This is one of the most common things in a household, and you might find a can of compressed air easily in your house. Compressed Air Cans usually comes with attached straw which is a very positive scenario for the players. That is why you will not need to do any extraordinary thing to fill up the basketball. So let’s know how you can fill up your basketball with the help of compressed air:

The things you would need:

• The can of compressed air (Might need 2)
• Nothing else

Now, the method:

1. The only thing you have to do is to connect to the straw of the can to the basketball.
2. Now allow the air to flow from the can to the basketball.
3. Make sure not to allow all the air at once, do it slowly, and your basketball will be filled with just the right amount.

3. Use a vehicle’s tire

It is not a problem if you don’t have a car; in this scenario, you can also use a bike or even a cycle. But makes sure to do this when your dad is not around, or you might get into serious trouble. This method can also be a little risky, and that is why it requires attention, so don’t ever do it until or unless you are sure of yourself. Let’s have a look at how this method works:

The things you would need:

• An Air Hose
• Schrader Chucks (Might be at your garage)
• A tube for transferring the air

Now, the method:

1. The very first thing you will have to do is to connect the air hose with Schrader chucks.
2. Now connect one end of the air hose to the tire of your desired vehicle.
3. Now attach the tube to your basketball.
4. Connect the air hose to the other end of the basketball.
5. Allow the Schrader Chucks to transfer the air between them.
6. Make sure not to fill up your basketball with excessive air, or you might lose your favourite basketball.

Precautions

These methods indeed are convenient, but they can be dangerous. So only implement them when you are sure that it will be safe (and they are if done correctly). So take the precautionary measures before implying any of the methods, and you will surely fill up your basketball without hassles.

How to get better at basketball dribbling?

Dribbling and controlling the ball is a much-needed skill to practice in basketball. Before the score point added on the board, there’s a long struggle of snatching and handling the ball, creating space while defending it from the opponents, eyes on the ball and the rim, and finally getting that score point.

It is a game all about how good you are with the ball. The better you can handle the ball, the more amazing you will be at the game.

Dribbling is one of the easiest skills to practice as it only requires a basketball and some area. No need for big courts or game partners, just you with your basketball practicing different drills.

Although it may be intimidating at the start, as you keep practicing these drills with dedication, you will find yourself become an amazing ball handler.

Here are some easy tips and drills for you. Practice these more often and step up your dribbling game!

Also Read: Get Better Grip On Basketball Sneakers

Basketball Dribbling Skills for Beginners

Dribble with your finger pads

The first basic key to improving your control over the ball is, dribble with your finger pads. Players often forget this basic tip and dribble with the palm of their hand or fingertips. The truth is, dribbling with the finger pads will give you the best control over the ball.

Hit the basketball harder

When practicing dribbling, try to hit the ball with enough force. If you hit harder, the ball will hit the ground faster and return to you in no time. The more the ball stays in your hand, the less the chance of defender to steal it.

Stay Low

Train yourself to play the game with mobility, strength, and stability in a lower stance while you have the possession of the ball. It will help you play more explosive and the ball will be out of your hands for an even shorter time.

Dribbling with both hands

First, practice your dribbling with one hand, and then learn to use alternate hands while dribbling. A good basketball player should dribble equally well with both hands.

Some Drills to Practice for Getting Better at Basketball Dribbling

Ball Slaps

Start your drill practice by continuously slapping the ball from one hand to the other.

Spider Dribble

Spread your feet about shoulder-width. Use alternate hands and dribble the ball between, in front of, and behind your legs as fast as possible.

Crossover

Dribble and cross the ball continuously from one hand to another.

Drop and Catch

Hold the ball between your legs while one hand in front and others behind your body. Drop the ball, exchange hand positions, and quickly catch it before it falls to the ground.

Front V-Dribble

Use your one hand, dribble the ball from side to side in the shape of a ‘v’ in front of your body.

Freestyle

While staying in a stationary position, practice dribbling with all the moves you know. Be creative and bring your own moves too.

Also Read: Install In Ground Basketball Goal Easily 

Conclusion

How to get better at basketball dribbling is all about practicing different drills and techniques. Advance dribbling skills will get you any spot on the floor and set you up for high-percentage shots, eventually leading your team to a win!

How do you get better grip on basketball shoes?

Imagine you are in a basketball match, you have the ball and you are going for the winning shot for your team, there’s no obstacle ahead and you’re running towards the pole.

But suddenly your shoes loose the grip, you slide on the ground and your perfect shot turns into an embarrassment.

In a basketball match, you can’t let anything stop you from scoring a goal for your team. You need to move swiftly in a basketball court and catch every possible chance of scoring. If your shoes aren’t as swift as you are, they can keep holding you back.

To maneuver the abrupt changes of direction in a basketball match, having shoes with solid grip and traction is incredibly important. Slippery shoes can not only affect the player’s performance, but they can cause an injury too.

Keeping good care of your basketball shoes can improve its grip, avoiding slip and slide, and help you move better on the court.

Even if your shoes are slightly worn down, it can cause you to be one second too early or too late. And this is what the basketball match is all about.

6 Best Ways to Get Better Grip on Basketball Shoes

Cleaning the sole of shoes

Basketball shoes can easily collect dirt and dust from the floor. Even if the court is cleaned regularly, it will still have some dust which then coats the bottom of your shoes, loosing its natural grip.

Keeping shoe soles clean is the first trick to improve the grip. When you wipe off the dirt from the bottom of the shoe, it will start having more friction and contact with the floor, providing you a better grip on your move.

Clean your shoes before and after every match for better results. You can clean them either with a washcloth by wiping down the bottom of your shoe, or by scrubbing down the sole with a bristle brush and soapy water.

Make sure you don’t use them for outdoor courts if the shoes are purposely made for indoor play. The material used for indoor basketball shoes can collect a lot of dust and easily get damaged.

Cleaning the court

Make sure your indoor basketball court is free of dust and dirt by cleaning it before every match. A clean floor will definitely make a big difference.

If you go for dry mopping, it will somehow remove dust but won’t helpfully remove dirt from the floor.

For the best result, Wet mopping is the best way to clean basketball courts. Ask your friends to help you with cleaning before the match, so nothing can hinder your play.

Buy a Gel or Traction Mat

Here’s an easy way to get an extra grip for your shoes. Also known as ‘Sticky mat’, a traction board can give your shoes a certain grip.

All you need to do is step on this sticky mat before the match, and it will instantly grab off the dirt from the rubbery sole of your shoes. The effect might not be for longer so you will have to re-step on it every often.

Traction Fluid

When traction fluid is applied to the bottom of a shoe, it enhances the grip by adding stickiness to the outsoles.

You need to apply enough of it on the soles of your shoes before the match starts and during every timeout.

Hair Spray

Hair sprays can also be used as grip enhancers. Just spray the bottom of your basketball shoes and it will help them stick better to the floor.

Using Sandpaper

This is a DIY method of improving your shoe’s traction on the floor.

Grab low-grit sandpaper and rough up the bottom of your shoes with a few swipes. This will help them to have a better grip on the floor. Just don’t go too hard or you will puncture the shoe completely.

How to Get Better Grip On Basketball Shoes Video

Conclusion

Grip and traction for a basketball player is an important part of their play. A strong grip will help them score more effortlessly. But shoe soles can wear down quickly and lose their grip. You must take good care of them and follow these tricks to retain the grip on your basketball shoes.

Try different methods and figure out which one works the best for you.