Basketball is a team sport where players try to score points by throwing the ball through the basket. The game is played over a set amount of time, and the team with the most points wins. The game includes four quarters that last 10 minutes each, with a two-minute break between each and 15 minutes of halftime. The game is also governed by a number of rules regarding equipment, playing surface, and timeouts.
Basketball involves many mental skills, in addition to physical skill. For example, a player must be able to think fast and focus on the ball, even when they are tired or injured. They must also learn to control their emotions and stay present, which can help them cope with stress in other areas of life. The game can also foster a sense of community and teamwork as players work together to support each other and achieve success.
The game is played by two teams, each consisting of five players. The two teams alternate between offense and defense. The offensive team tries to score by passing or shooting the ball into the opponent’s basket. The defensive team tries to prevent the other team from scoring by stealing the ball or taking away their shots. The defensive team may also block the opposing player from getting to the basket by stepping in front of them and blocking their path.
To shoot a basket, a player must push off with their legs to gain momentum and then jump into the air in order to propel themselves towards the basket. The height of the player’s jump and how long they stay in the air is used to determine the accuracy of their shot. A shot that misses the hoop and only hits the backboard is called a brick, while a shot that slams through the basket from jumping is known as a dunk.
A basketball court is typically made of wood or concrete, and has a rectangular layout with a basket at one end. There are markings on the court that indicate the three-point line, the lane lines, and the free-throw line.
Basketball is a fast-paced sport, and players must be able to keep their feet planted while swerving or turning. If they move too quickly, they are called for a traveling violation and the opposing team gets possession of the ball. To avoid this, a player must dribble the ball only once before passing or shooting and then only while on the move.
The game is overseen by a group of officials, who penalize the team when its players break the rules. The most common violations are bumping, pushing, and tripping, which result in the other team getting the ball. Players may also be fouled if they touch another player, which usually results in the opposing team shooting a free throw. Some fouls are penalized with a technical foul, which gives the player who was fouled the chance to shoot without a defender.