Basketball is a team sport that involves shooting a ball into an opposing team’s basket or hoop using one hand or both. The game has a fixed set of rules that players must follow. It’s a high-impact exercise that can lead to injury, so players should do a warm-up and cool-down before playing. It’s also important to stay hydrated during play. Regular basketball practice may help players develop balance and coordination. It can also help increase confidence and self-esteem and improve moods. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that may boost moods and alleviate pain and depression.
The goal of the game is to score more points than the other team. Each team moves the ball around the court by passing or dribbling it, while abiding by the rules of the game. The team that has the ball is called the offense, and the defending team is known as the defense. Players attempt to steal the ball, contest shots and passes, and grab rebounds. The player that holds the most rebounds at the end of the game is awarded a trophy.
The basketball court is a rectangular area enclosed by a net with a round hoop at the end, or basket. The net is attached to a pole, or hoop, which sits on top of a glass backboard. The hoop is elevated several feet above the ground, making it difficult for players to reach from the floor. The rim is secured with metal rim tape to protect it from excessive contact.
Each team is made up of five players. The tallest player plays the center position, the second-tallest and strongest is the power forward, and the shortest players are small forwards. The point guard is the leader of the offense and must have excellent ball-handling skills to facilitate the team’s plays. The shooting guard is usually the best shooter on the team and can make shots from a variety of distances.
During the course of the game, players are awarded free throws when they are fouled while shooting. These are worth one point each. In addition, if a player makes a shot from inside the circle arc on the floor that surrounds the paint, it is worth three points.
While the rules of basketball vary from country to country, most have a similar structure. A game is played in halves of varying length, and the team with the most points at the end of the regulation period wins. There is often a gap of several minutes between the halves, and overtime periods of various lengths are sometimes played to determine a winner.
Basketball is a fast-paced game that can cause injuries, including knee injuries and bruises. Players should do a thorough warm-up before each practice, and drink water at regular intervals to stay hydrated. They should avoid jumping or bouncing while holding the ball, as this increases their risk of injury. It’s also important to do proper stretching before and after each session.