Basketball is a team sport in which players attempt to score points by throwing a ball through an opposition hoop while abiding by a fixed set of rules. The game was invented by James Naismith in 1891 and is primarily an indoor sport but it is also played on the streets of many US cities. There are five players on each team, and substitutions can be made at any time. The players fall into five playing positions: the tallest player is called the center, a power forward is the next tallest, a small forward is shorter but more agile, and a point guard is the shortest and best ball handler. The players are primarily divided into offensive and defensive teams, but each team can choose to use different tactics.
Three-point shot: A field goal that is scored from outside the area encircled by the three-point line in the opposition half wins a team three points.
Two-point shot: A field goal that is successfully scored from inside the three-point line in the opposition half earns a team two points.
Foul: A breach of the rules involving physical contact between players that may result in a change in possession or free-throw opportunities. There are several different types of fouls: unsportsmanlike, personal, flagrant and technical fouls.
Bounce pass: The passer bounces the ball crisply on the surface of the court, about two-thirds of the way from his chest to the receiver. This type of pass is harder for the opposition to intercept and can be useful in crowded situations. Overhead pass: A pass that is released while the passer is above the opposing defender’s head. This is usually used to bypass a defender in order to break into the lane and make a layup or a three-pointer.
Fast break: An offensive strategy that aims to advance the ball and score as quickly as possible, usually following a steal or blocked shot. A player isn’t allowed to stay in the opposition half of the court for more than three seconds without attempting a basket, or risk committing a backcourt violation.
Defending a three-pointer: The defending team may defend a shooter by placing a player on the wing or in the corner, or by forming a screen, so that the shooter’s defender isn’t able to see them. They can also try to tip or deflect the shooter’s shot, changing its trajectory and causing it to miss the basket.
The shooting position in basketball is important. The player should be in a balanced position, with his non-dominant foot back slightly to prevent him from falling when he shoots. He should also practice rolling the ball up in one smooth motion, using the backspin to increase the likelihood that it will go into the hoop when it hits the rim or backboard. Lastly, the player should jump when he shoots to generate extra height and momentum. The more a player practices this shot, the more he will learn to take advantage of his body’s natural abilities.