Basketball

Basketball is a team sport that involves two teams, typically consisting of five players each, competing to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team’s hoop or goal. The game is played on a rectangular court, with a hoop elevated at each end. Points are scored by making baskets from various distances; a standard shot made from inside the three-point line is worth two points, while shots made from beyond the three-point arc are worth three points. Free throws, awarded after certain fouls, are worth one point each.

Basketball requires a combination of physical skills, including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defending, as well as strategic teamwork to outmaneuver the opposing team. The sport is governed by specific rules that dictate gameplay, fouls, and scoring. Originating in the late 19th century in the United States, basketball has become a popular global sport, played at both amateur and professional levels, including leagues like the NBA (National Basketball Association). It emphasizes athleticism, agility, and collaboration, making it not only a competitive sport but also a widely viewed entertainment activity.