Basketball is a team sport where players shoot a ball through a basket to score points. Each successful hoop shot earns one to three points depending on where the player made the basket and whether or not it was made inside or outside the arc. The game is played in four quarters of varying length and the team with the most points wins.
The basics of basketball include dribbling (bouncing the ball with one hand while maintaining control), passing, and shooting. It is important to practice all aspects of these skills, as well as playing the game at full speed to develop the skills needed to compete in games.
The rules of basketball are established by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA). They include equipment and court specifications, fouls, and game structure. In addition, FIBA establishes rules and standards for the conduct of basketball competitions.
Invented by James Naismith in 1891, basketball has become one of the world’s most popular sports, enjoyed by millions worldwide. The game is a fast-paced, highly physical, and tactically demanding sport that requires exceptional athleticism from its participants. Its popularity has also contributed to its widespread influence on youth culture and values.
Players play in five positions on the court, with two teams of five players each. The tallest players are the center and power forwards, while the shorter but agile small forwards and shooting guards implement the coach’s offensive plan and provide scoring punch. The point guard – usually the fastest player on the team – is responsible for managing the flow of the offense and executing defensive strategies.
Each player has a responsibility to protect the ball at all times. If a player loses possession of the ball, they must immediately recover it, return it to their teammate, or call for a timeout. Players are not allowed to run with the ball, and if they do, it’s considered a traveling violation.
A foul committed by a dribbler is called a charged foul, and can be accompanied by a holding foul or unsportsmanlike conduct technical foul. During a game, teams may substitute players at any time that there is stoppage in play and the referee blows the whistle.
Games are typically divided into four 12 minute quarters for a total of 48 minutes. If a game is tied at the end of regulation, overtime periods of varying lengths are played until a winner is determined. In high school and amateur leagues, games are often shorter and more frequent.