Basketball

Basketball is a team sport played on a rectangular court, where two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a spherical ball through the opposing team’s hoop or basket, which is elevated 10 feet above the ground. The objective is to accumulate more points than the opponent by making field goals (worth two or three points, depending on the player’s location relative to the three-point line) or free throws (worth one point).

The game is played in four quarters, with teams advancing the ball through dribbling or passing. Key skills in basketball include shooting, passing, dribbling, and defensive strategies. The sport emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness, and it can be played both indoors and outdoors. Basketball is governed by a set of established rules, which include regulations on fouls, scoring, and the playing area. Popularized in the early 20th century, basketball has become a major global sport, known for its fast pace and high-scoring games. It is played at various levels, from amateur youth leagues to professional leagues like the NBA (National Basketball Association).