Basketball is a team sport in which players try to outscore each other by shooting a ball through a hoop more times. It is played on a rectangular floor called a court, with one hoop at each end. The game can be played in a variety of ways, including man-to-man defense (where each player is assigned an opponent and follows him around) or zone defense (where all players cover the same area but may shift from side to side). Other techniques include stealing the ball from a dribbler, intercepting passes, and blocking shots. Players also may rebound, or collect a missed shot that bounces off the backboard or rim.
Each team consists of five players. The tallest players play center, the second-tallest and strongest players are power forwards, and the shortest but most agile players are small forwards. The point guard and shooting guard are the best ball handlers and implement their coach’s offensive and defensive game plan.
When a player has possession of the ball, he must keep it under control by bouncing it while walking or running (dribbling). To dribble, the ball must be held in one hand and kept within a restricted area of the court known as the paint; it is illegal to carry the ball or lift it over your head. It is also a violation to stop dribbling, pass the ball, or touch another player without a pass (assisted foul).
Once a team has possession of the ball, it may begin playing offense by passing it to a teammate or driving toward the basket for a shot. A shot is taken by releasing the ball from the hand that was holding it, usually while jumping and extending the shooting arm into a proper arc for the basket. Typically, players also use a backspin to help the ball stick to the rim after it hits.
Other rules of the game include a jump ball to start the game, a shot clock that gives a team a limited amount of time (24 seconds in the NBA and FIBA; 10 in high school and college for both sexes) to attempt a shot after gaining possession of the ball, and a restriction on where a team can advance the ball within a limited area known as the free-throw lane. There are also a number of more serious violations called fouls, such as reaching and offensive and personal fouls.
To become a good basketball player, you must develop your defensive skills. The key to defense is to not let your opponent get too close, as this will give them a better chance to steal the ball or block a shot. The first step in developing your defensive stance is to develop a strong base, with your body weight on the balls of your feet and your shoulders back. This will allow you to move quickly and keep up with your opponent while still maintaining your balance and control of the ball.