Basketball is a team sport played on a rectangular court, usually indoors, in which two teams of five players each try to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent’s hoop or net, which is mounted 10 feet high. Points are scored by making field goals (worth two or three points, depending on the distance from the hoop) or free throws (worth one point). The game is played in four quarters, and the team with the most points at the end wins.
Basketball involves various skills, including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defending, and emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and athleticism. It is governed by specific rules that outline how the game is played, including fouls, violations, and scoring methods. Basketball is popular worldwide and is played at various levels, from recreational to professional leagues, such as the NBA (National Basketball Association). The sport also has significant cultural and social influence, contributing to community engagement and youth development.
In summary, basketball is a fast-paced, high-energy team sport focused on scoring through shooting a ball into a hoop.