Basketball

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by throwing a ball through the opposing team’s hoop or basket, which is elevated 10 feet above the ground. The game is played on a rectangular court, and points can be scored in various ways: shooting from inside the three-point line earns two points, while shots from beyond the three-point line earn three points. Free throws, awarded after certain fouls, are worth one point each.

Players advance the ball down the court by dribbling (bouncing the ball) or passing it to teammates. The game includes various positions such as guard, forward, and center, each with specific roles and responsibilities. The objective is not only to score points but also to prevent the opposing team from scoring by employing defensive strategies.

Basketball is governed by a set of rules established by organizations like the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). It is widely played at various levels, from recreational street games to professional leagues, and is popular worldwide, contributing to a vibrant culture with significant athletic and commercial presence.