Basketball is played with five players on each team and a ball that must be passed or shot over a net into a hoop. It is a fast-paced and highly physical game, which can be played and enjoyed at any age or level of fitness. A game of basketball is won by the team that scores the most points in a given time, while abiding by a set of fixed rules. In addition to the hoop and net, the court is marked with a three-point line arc, which grants three points for shots made from inside it; a field goal scored from outside the arc wins two points; and free throws awarded after a player has been fouled while shooting are worth one point each.
Players advance the ball by bouncing it while walking or running, a technique known as dribbling. They may also pass the ball to a teammate, which requires considerable skill. A player may also shoot the ball into a basket from anywhere on the floor, though some shots are more difficult than others, such as slam dunks and jump shots, which must be made while in the air. A shot that hits the hoop or backboard but does not go through the net is called a brick. A good player can use a variety of moves to get around opponents and make shots, including jumping into the air and putting a spin on the ball as it bounces off the backboard.
There are many different ways to score a basket, and the most common are the one-pointer, the two-pointer, and the three-pointer. A player can also earn a bonus free throw in certain circumstances, such as when they are fouled while shooting.
The game can be played indoors or outdoors, on a hard surface such as asphalt or concrete, or on artificial surfaces like wood or turf. It can be played with as few as two people, although official games require a minimum of 10 players. The tallest player on each team is the center, while the second-tallest and strongest is the power forward; a slightly shorter but quicker and more agile player is the small forward; and the shortest or best ball handlers are the shooting guard and point guard, who implement the coach’s strategy by managing the execution of offensive and defensive plays (player positioning).
When playing basketball, it is important to follow the rules of the sport. These include avoiding any form of illegal physical contact, as well as not taking more than five seconds when passing the ball in-bounds. It is also important to practice setting clean picks and screens, which are movements that block a defensive player with your body to allow a teammate a clear path to the basket. Finally, it is important to listen to your coach, as they will have much experience and are great to learn from. Having a clear plan of what you want to accomplish every time you step on the court will help you to stay focused and improve.