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 or basket, which is elevated 10 feet above the floor. The game is played on a rectangular court with a hoop at each end. Points are scored in various ways: a field goal (worth two points if taken from inside the three-point line or three points if taken from beyond it) and free throws (worth one point), awarded after certain fouls.

The objective of the game is to score more points than the opposing team within a set time limit, typically divided into quarters. Players can advance the ball by dribbling, which involves bouncing the ball while moving, or by passing it to teammates. Basketball emphasizes skills such as shooting, dribbling, passing, and defensive tactics. It is known for its fast pace and high score potential, making it a popular sport globally, both for recreational play and professional competition, with notable leagues including the NBA (National Basketball Association) in the United States.