Basketball

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent’s hoop, which is elevated and positioned at each end of a rectangular court. The game is played on a hardwood floor and consists of four quarters, with the team that scores the most points declared the winner. Players can move the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball while walking or running) or passing it to teammates. Points can be scored by shooting the ball through the hoop from different distances, with shots made from beyond the three-point line earning more points than regular field goals. Basketball emphasizes skills such as shooting, passing, dribbling, and defense, and it requires teamwork, strategy, and athleticism. The sport is governed by a set of rules established by organizations such as the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States and FIBA internationally. Basketball is played recreationally and competitively across various levels, from school leagues to professional championships, and it is one of the most popular sports worldwide.