Basketball is a lot of fun to watch and equally entertaining to play recreationally but, unless you are near seven-feet tall, chances are you won’t be able to make a career out of playing. Even the smallest players on the court, the guards, are usually well above six-feet tall. Just because you can’t be out on the court doesn’t mean you can’t be part of the sport, however. There is a lot more to basketball than just what you see on television or from your ringside seat, and with the right qualifications, there are plenty of career opportunities. Unless you plan on donning a mascot suit and entertaining the crowds, you will have to work towards your qualification, though. You might not be out on the court shooting hoops, but you will still be working in a field related to the sport.

Administrative Careers

You will find the same kind of administrative jobs in the basketball field as in any other business, as it takes a lot of behind the scenes work to keep the sport growing. Everything from lawyers, accountants, general managers and travel coordinators right down to security is needed. With the right qualifications and a healthy dose of passion, you’ll be sure to find something that matches your talents. Being an accountant or travel coordinator might not be as glamorous as being an NBA superstar, but there is the satisfaction of knowing that your job is vital to the success and well-being of the players.

Media Careers

Basketball fans love to watch the game, read about the game and learn more about their favorite players. Entering into a career in the media can make you the person that provides them with everything they want to know. There are plenty of media outlets in both broadcast and print that provide basketball coverage, and working in this area will allow you to put your knowledge and passion for the game to good use. The list of media careers in the basketball sector is almost too many to mention, but includes everything from directors, producers and editors to statisticians and more.

Sports Agent Careers

If you want to get up close and personal with the players and the game, becoming a sports agent might be just what you are looking for. You will need excellent negotiating skills and probably a background in marketing as well as communications if you want to work in this competitive career. If you are really passionate about the game, it is worth it, as you will be able to directly affect the careers of your clients and they could reach greater heights through your expertise.

Don’t Be Discouraged

The three fields listed here barely scratch the surface when it comes to careers in the basketball industry, but it proves that you can still be a part of the sport you love, no matter what your talents are. You might have to pay your dues and work your way up before you get to the big leagues. But if you are committed to the sport, you’re likely to enjoy every minute of it.

Dribbling down the court and taking a three-point shot can be a thrilling experience, especially if the shot goes in. But no one picks up the game overnight. Instead, those with real skills spend lots of time on the court practicing the fundamentals. As a beginner, it can seem like basketball success is a long way off. Here are five tips any player can use to improve their game.

Become a Spectator

It might be hard to believe but watching basketball can help a person improve. Seeing the mistakes and successes that others experience can be a real learning opportunity. After watching certain moves being made, it helps to head out to the court and try them out. They aren’t going to be perfect with the first attempt, but these types of moves will come more naturally over time. Watching games, whether on TV or at a local court, also gives a spectator an overview of the game. It is easy to see the whole court and all the players to find out how to successfully move without the ball.

Spend More Time With a Basketball in Hand

Dribble, dribble, dribble: New and experienced players can always benefit from carrying around and dribbling a ball. It helps to get a feel for how the ball moves and how it feels to bounce it around. Different surfaces are going to create a different bounce. The more comfortable a person feels with the basketball in hand, the better they will be able to move on the court while dribbling.

Move Closer When Shooting

Instead of busting out a shot at the three-point line, consider moving closer to the basket to shoot around. This helps a player get the right form and also instills confidence as more shots go in. Gradually move out and continue shooting. Just like dribbling, it is impossible to shoot too much while practicing.

Join a Game

Doing drills alone can be tiring and become boring. When an opportunity to play becomes available, players should jump at the chance. From a three on three game at lunch time to a full court scrimmage in the evening, getting in the game will help with the skills and the overall knowledge necessary to play the game. These games are the places to make mistakes and learn from them. At the same time, keep an eye on the other players to see how they handle the game.

Defend With the Body, Not the Feet

Defense is one of the most important parts of the game. Often overlooked, it isn’t something that gets a lot of attention. However, players looking to improve their overall game or even just their offense should consider intensifying their defense. This means avoiding depending on the hands to stop the ball but using the body to stop the player. Fast feet work a person into position to stop the ball and force a player to pass or take a shot.