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. The game is played on a rectangular court with a goal at each end mounted ten feet above the floor. Points are scored by making field goals, worth two or three points depending on the distance from the basket, or free throws, which are worth one point each.

The objective of the game is to outscore the opponent by successfully making more baskets throughout the duration of the game. Basketball emphasizes skills such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defensive strategies. Players advance the ball by dribbling or passing, and the game involves both offensive and defensive plays.

Basketball is governed by specific rules regarding fouls, violations, and the general conduct of play. The sport has a significant global presence, with numerous professional leagues, the most prominent being the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States, and international competitions, such as the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the Olympics. The game is known for its fast pace, athleticism, and the ability to showcase individual talent within a team framework.