Basketball

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team’s hoop, which is elevated 10 feet above the ground. The game is played on a rectangular court with a hoop at each end. Points are scored by making field goals (worth two or three points, depending on the player’s distance from the hoop) or free throws (worth one point). Players can advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball while moving) or passing it to teammates.

The objective of basketball is to outscore the opponent within a designated time frame, usually divided into quarters. The sport emphasizes skills such as shooting, passing, dribbling, and teamwork. It also involves elements of defense, where players aim to prevent the opposing team from scoring.

Basketball is played at various levels, from amateur school leagues to professional leagues like the National Basketball Association (NBA) and international competitions. The game is characterized by its fast pace, strategic plays, and athletic movements, making it a popular sport worldwide.