Basketball is a popular sport that is played in a number of countries around the world. It is played with a spherical ball that weighs from 18 to 22 ounces. The object of the game is to shoot the ball into a basket that is located behind the three-point line. If the shot is made, a free throw is awarded to the team.
In order to play basketball, a team is required to have at least 10 players. They can be either men or women. Traditionally, teams are composed of 12 players. Most teams start with a number of open gyms or strength and conditioning sessions before beginning official training. During preseason, coaches work with their players for up to two hours a week.
The origins of basketball date back to the year 1891. Dr James Naismith, a physical education teacher, was seeking a sport that would be team-based and have limited physical contact. He devised 13 rules based on five principles.
Basketball is considered to be the most popular sport in the United States. Since its inception, basketball has had numerous rules and regulations that have evolved throughout the years. For example, the rules about shooting a ball from the free-throw line have changed since the early days of the game.
In order to keep the ball from going into the crowd, players are not allowed to block the ball in a downward trajectory toward the basket. However, players are allowed to pick up rebounds. There are also a variety of special equipment that has been added to the game.
Basketball is a sport that requires a lot of skill and strategy. Players must know how to score, and they must be able to get their teammates involved in their offensive and defensive strategies.
The rules about basketball are very simple to understand. One of the most interesting aspects is that the game is played everywhere. As a result, it attracts a huge following. People watch the games on television, and they follow the actions of their favorite stars.
A modern basketball game typically consists of four quarters of 10 minutes each. Teams switch sides on the court after two quarters. This is followed by an overtime period. During the overtime period, the team with the most points wins the game.
Some of the most important basketball rules include passing, shooting, and dribbling. Passing is important because it allows a team to move around the court. During a game, players may not stay in their own key for more than three seconds without attempting a shot.
Other important rules to know include the three-second rule. A three-second lane violation occurs when a player moves into a lane before receiving a pass. Additionally, a team is not allowed to block a shot if the ball has entered the net.
A basketball court measures approximately 15 to 28 meters in length and width. The basketball itself ranges in size from 28.5 to 30 inches in diameter.