Basketball

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically composed of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent’s hoop, which is mounted at a height of 10 feet (3.05 meters) on a backboard. The game is played on a rectangular court, with a hoop at each end. Points are scored by making field goals, which are worth two or three points depending on the distance from the hoop, or free throws, which are worth one point.

Basketball emphasizes skillful ball handling, teamwork, strategy, and athleticism. It involves various actions such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defending. The game is played in four quarters, and the team with the most points at the end of the game wins. Basketball is widely popular globally and has numerous professional leagues, notably the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States, which significantly influences the sport’s culture and development. It also features international competitions, including the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the Olympic Games.