Basketball is one of the most beloved and exciting sports in the world, with millions of fans tuning in to watch professional games every year. But for those just starting out, understanding the basics of basketball can be a daunting task. From dribbling to dunking, there’s a lot to learn if you want to become a skilled player. That’s why we’ve put together this beginner’s guide – so whether you’re hitting the court for the first time or looking to improve your skills, we’ve got everything you need to know about mastering the fundamentals of basketball!
Introduction of Basketball:
Highest governing body | FIBA |
---|---|
First played | December 21, 1891 | . Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S.
Characteristics | |
Contact | Limited |
Team members | 5 per side |
Mixed-sex | Yes, separate competitions |
Type | Indoor/Outdoor |
Equipment | Basketball |
Venue | Indoor court (mainly) or outdoor court (Streetball) |
Glossary | Glossary of basketball |
Presence | |
Country or region | Worldwide |
Olympic | Yes, demonstrated in the 1904 and 1924 Summer Olympics Part of the Summer Olympic program since 1936 |
Paralympic | Yes |
Basketball is a team sport where two teams, typically of five players each, face off on a rectangular court. The objective is to shoot the basketball (measuring around 24cm in diameter) through the opposing team’s hoop – one basket at each end of the court which measures 46cm in diameter and is placed 3.048m high – while preventing them from doing so for their own hoop. A field goal equals two points, unless taken from behind the three-point line whereby it then scores three. When a foul happens, gameplay temporarily stops and the player in question or obliged to take technical foul(s) gets one, two or three free throws worth one point each. At the end of regulation play, the side with more points claims victory, if there’s a tie then an overtime period is mandated.
Players can progress the ball by dribbling or passing to a teammate, both of which take great skill. Offensively, players may use the layup, jump shot, or dunk; while on defense they can steal from a dribbler, intercept passes, and block shots. Rebounding is another skill that takes place after a missed shot bounces off the rim or backboard. When handling the ball, it’s against the rules to lift or drag one’s pivot foot without dribbling, carry it, or hold with both hands before beginning to dribble once more.
In a typical team, the tallest players are usually assigned to the center position, followed by the power forward. While slightly shorter and more agile, the small forward is also present. Finally, the two shortest players or best ball handlers take up the shooting guard and point guard roles; they are responsible for carrying out the coach’s instructions on offense and defense. Aside from five-on-five matchups, informal games of three-on-three, two-on-two, and one-on-one can be played.
Invented in 1891 by James Naismith in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA, basketball has become one of the most popular and widely viewed sports around the world.The leading professional association for the sport is the National Basketball Association (NBA) which attracts huge sums of money, top talent and considerable levels of competition from U.S. college basketball teams. On an international level, the FIBA Basketball World Cup and Men’s Olympic Basketball Tournament are some of the biggest events which draw teams from all over. At a regional level, championships such as EuroLeague and the Basketball Champions League Americas provide nation teams with the opportunity to compete against each other in their respective continents. Likewise, there are also tournaments such as EuroBasket and FIBA AmeriCup to be contested within each continent.
The FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup and Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament are both showcases of the best national teams from continental championships. The preeminent North American league is the WNBA, while the most dominant European clubs compete in the EuroLeague Women. NCAA Women’s Division I Basketball Championship is also highly popular.
History
In December 1891, James Naismith, a Canadian professor of physical education and instructor at the International Young Men’s Christian Association Training School (now Springfield College) in Springfield, Massachusetts, was struggling to keep his pupils active on the rain-soaked day. He required an indoor sport that would maintain their health through the winter season. After discarding other ideas as either too vigorous or unsuitable for gymnasiums with walls, he created a new game wherein players pass a ball between each other in order to score points by shooting it into a basket mounted on a wall. To set up this game, Naismith wrote the rules and fastened a peach basket onto an elevated track. At first, he left the bottom intact which meant that each “basket” or point scored necessitated manual retrieval of the ball. This became tiresome very quickly, so he removed the bottom to allow for long dowels to poke out the balls after every score.
Basketball originally used a soccer ball. The round ball was made with laces to close the hole containing the inflatable bladder, but this could hinder passes and dribbling. To solve this issue, a lace-free construction method was developed and supported by Naismith, though American football benefited from the laces remaining. Brown balls especially designed for basketball were seen around the late 1950s, until Tony Hinkle began creating orange ones as they were more visible to players and spectators. Dribbling wasn’t initially part of the game – apart from ‘bounce passes’ to teammates – instead focusing on passing as the main form of ball movement. However, dribbling became more common by 1896, and a rule preventing double dribbles had been implemented two years later.
The peach baskets were used to play the game until 1906 when they were eventually switched for metal hoops with backboards. Every time a player got the ball in the basket, their team would earn a point and whoever had the most points at the end of the game won. Initially, they were fixed to a mezzanine balcony, but this caused disruption from spectators, so a backboard was included to prevent interruptions and also allowed rebound shots. John Naismith, who invented this game, was apparently anxious about its success as he based it off another kids’ game called “duck on a rock” but fortunately it flourished. This was discovered in his diaries which were found by his granddaughter in 2006.
Frank Mahan, one of the participants in the first ever game, met up with James Naismith right after the holidays in 1892. He inquired as to what he was going to call his new invention. Realizing that he hadn’t considered it because he was just so focused on getting the game running, Mahan proposed “Naismith ball”. Naismith responded with laughter and mentioned how a name like that could easily kill any game. At which point Mahan suggested calling it basketball, a reference to the basket and the ball used in play. Naismith agreed, and on January 20th, 1892, the very first official game of basketball took place at Albany’s YMCA gymnasium with nine players on a court half the size of today’s Streetball or NBA courts. The game ended 1-0, with a shot from 25 feet away.
Soccer was initially played with 10 to a team, but this was soon increased to 11. During icy winters, teams had to move indoors and found it more convenient to break into two for basketball; by 1897–1898, teams of five had become the norm.
The original game of basketball spread rapidly from YMCAs across the USA and Canada. By 1895, female high schools were also playing it. Though the YMCA introduced the sport, they eventually grew concerned about its more wild and unruly followers, and other organizations took their place. These included amateur sports clubs, universities and professional teams. In an effort to bring order to the sport’s rules, The Amateur Athletic Union and Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the United States (now known as the NCAA) competed against each other for dominance in this area. The National Basketball League was founded in 1898 to protect players from maltreatment and promote a calmer version of the game; however, it folded just 5 years later.
James Naismith was integral in introducing college basketball. His colleague C. O. Beamis soon after established the first college team at Geneva College, nearby Pittsburgh, PA. He would then coach for six years at the University of Kansas before being succeeded by Forrest “Phog” Allen. Amos Alonzo Stagg brought the sport to the University of Chicago through the influence of Naismith, and Adolph Rupp, a disciple of Naismith during his time in Kansas, coached to great success at the University of Kentucky. On February 9th, 1895, Hamline University had an intercollegiate 5-on-5 game with an affiliate from the University of Minnesota’s School of Agriculture which ended 9-3; with The School of Agriculture emerging victorious.
In 1901, the University of Chicago, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, the University of Minnesota, the U.S. Naval Academy, the University of Colorado and Yale University kickstarted men’s football competitions. This gained traction in 1905 after President Theodore Roosevelt urged for the establishment of a governing body to regulate the sport’s events, leading to the formation of Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the United States (IAAUS). After five years in 1910 it was renamed as National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Furthermore, on February 6th, 1904, history was made when McGill University and Queen’s University clashed in an interuniversity basketball game hosted by YMCA Kingston Ontario; McGill emerged victorious with a 9–7 overtime win having been tied at 7 during regulation play. A sizable crowd came to watch this monumental match.
The National Association of Intercollegiate Basketball tournament (which still exists as the NAIA tournament) was established in 1937 as the first men’s national championship. The following year, 1938, saw the creation of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) for NCAA teams in New York. From 1948 to 1951, college basketball faced an extensive scandal due to match fixing and point shaving involving a multitude of players from top teams. This led to a reduction in support for the NIT compared to the NCAA tournament, a result seen partially as a consequence of its association with cheating.
Before the wave of school district consolidation, a majority of American high schools were much smaller than now. As basketball only needed minimal equipment and personnel, it rapidly became the favorite interscholastic sport in the early decades of the 20th century. Before the prevalence of professional and college sports on television, high school basketball was an extremely popular pastime in many regions of America. One particularly remarkable team was the Franklin Wonder Five from Indiana, who created a sensation during the 1920s by dominating Indiana basketball and garnering nationwide fame.
Virtually every high school in the United States now fields a varsity basketball team, its immense popularity still thriving in both urban and rural areas. The 2016–17 season witnessed an impressive 980,673 boys and girls representing their schools in interscholastic competition across the nation, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations.Three states that have become particularly renowned for their attachment to the game are Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky; this is best exemplified by ‘Hoosier Hysteria’ in Indiana, which was famously portrayed in the critically acclaimed film Hoosiers.
No current tournament exists to determine a national high school champion. In the past, the most significant endeavor was the 1917-1930 National Interscholastic Basketball Tournament at the University of Chicago, which was established by Amos Alonzo Stagg and sent invitations to state champions. Originally an event mostly limited to the Midwest region, the tournament eventually grew and in 1929 included 29 state titleholders. However, due to opposition from organizations like the National Federation of State High School Associations and North Central Association of Colleges and Schools – which voiced fear that it might be used for professional recruitment amongst high schools – accreditation threatened by them, led to its ultimate halt in 1930. Also not included were minority schools or private/parochial ones.
The National Catholic Interscholastic Basketball Tournament ran from 1924 to 1941 at Loyola University. From 1954 to 1978 the National Catholic Invitational Basketball Tournament was held at a variety of locations, including Catholic University, Georgetown and George Mason. The National Interscholastic Basketball Tournament for Black High Schools took place from 1929 to 1942 at Hampton Institute. The basis for the champion weakened after 1954 when Brown v. Board of Education began an integration of schools. Prior to this, the National Invitational Interscholastic Basketball Tournament was held from 1941 to 1967 with its first editions being held at Tuskegee Institute. It resumed in Nashville once World War II came to an end, before moving its last events to Alabama State College from 1964 to 1967.
In the 1920s, teams flourished. Hundreds of men’s professional basketball teams populated towns and cities across the U.S., with little order to the pro game. Players would switch sides frequently, playing in armories and smoky dance halls. Leagues started and ended abruptly, while barnstorming squads like the Original Celtics and two all-African American groups, the Rens and the still-active Harlem Globetrotters, played up to two hundred games annually on their national tours.
Basketball’s journey to becoming one of the most beloved sports began in 1946 with the formation of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), whose first game took place in Toronto, Canada, between the Toronto Huskies and New York Knickerbockers. The BAA would later merge with the National Basketball League three seasons later to become known as the National Basketball Association (NBA). As time went on, basketball became increasingly popular thanks to its newfound importance in college sport and by 1959, a Hall of Fame was opened in Springfield, Massachusetts – home of the very first game. This Hall celebrates outstanding players, coaches, referees and contributors who have made significant impacts on basketball’s development. Another organization soon stepped into contention: 1967 marked the emergence of the American Basketball Association (ABA). While this initially posed a threat to NBA dominance, it soon merged with them in 1976. Nowadays, NBA is recognized as among the greatest professional basketball leagues globally both in terms of popularity, financial stability and high athlete quality.
The NBA has had a variety of renowned athletes, like its first leading “big man” George Mikan; Bob Cousy, the ball-handling master; and Bill Russell’s defensive prowess. Wilt Chamberlain, who began with the barnstorming Harlem Globetrotters, was another charismatic center. The all-round stars Oscar Robertson and Jerry West have been followed by more recent players such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon and Karl Malone; playmakers John Stockton, Isiah Thomas and Steve Nash; Julius Erving and Charles Barkley for jawdropping plays; Dirk Nowitzki, Pau Gasol and Tony Parker from Europe; Manu Ginobili for Latin America; Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo among the recent stars. The three players who raised the NBA’s level of popularity during in the 80s and 90s are Larry Bird, Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Michael Jordan.
In 2001, the National Basketball Development League (NBDL) was set up by the NBA. This league would eventually be rebranded as the NBA D-League and, more recently, the NBA G League after a partnership with Gatorade. As of the 2021–22 season, there are 30 teams in this league.
FIBA, the International Basketball Federation, was established in 1932 by eight original nations: Argentina, Czechoslovakia, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Portugal, Romania and Switzerland. It existed only to oversee amateur players at the time. This basketball organization took its name from the French Fédération International de Basket-ball Amateur which translates to FIBA. Men’s basketball made its Olympic debut in 1936 at Berlin Games in Germany as a demonstration event; however, it had been included back in 1904 during a demonstration tournament. The U.S. has dominated this sport since its inception winning everything apart from three titles with one of those coming 1972 Munich Olympics where they were defeated by Soviet Union after a controversial ending that had to be replayed three times before Soviets emerged triumphant. 1950 marked the first FIBA World Championship for men – now known as the FIBA Basketball World Cup – held in Argentina with Women’s Basketball World Cup initiated three years later and hosted by Chile. In 1976 women’s basketball was added to Montreal Olympics featuring teams like USSR, Brazil and Australia competing against U.S. side.’
In 1989, FIBA made a groundbreaking decision to permit NBA players to take part in the Olympics. Until then, only European and South American squads were allowed to utilise professionals in the Games. This led to the USA’s continued success by way of their original Dream Team. However, at the 2004 Athens Olympics, they experienced their first loss when competing with professional players – due to defeats by Puerto Rico and Lithuania in group matches and Argentina in the semi-finals. The Redeem Team reclaimed gold for them at the 2008 Olympics; then, even without any players from the 2008 squad on their side, the B-Team won gold at the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. Subsequently, they went on to be victorious at a further three competitions – 2012 Olympic Games, 2014 FIBA World Cup and 2016 Olympics – maintaining their long-standing supremacy.
Throughout the world, tournaments are conducted for male and female participants of all ages. The far-reaching appeal of basketball is reflected in the diversity of nationalities featured in the NBA – players from six continents currently appear on its roster. In the mid-1990s, some of the finest athletes from around the globe transferred to the league, such as Croatians Dražen Petrović and Toni Kukoč, Serbian Vlade Divac, Lithuanians Arvydas Sabonis and Šarūnas Marčiulionis, Dutch Rik Smits and German Detlef Schrempf.
The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) held their first game on April 9, 1975, at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Philippines. It was a break-off from the Manila Industrial and Commercial Athletic Association, which had been regulated by the now extinct Basketball Association of the Philippines (FIBA’s recognized national organization). Nine MICAA teams joined the first PBA season. Alternately, in 1979, Australia launched their own Men’s Professional Basketball League with a winter season from April to September. A shift to the summer season format was made in 1998–99 to prevent them from competing against Australia’s various football codes. This league consists of eight teams across Australia and one in New Zealand. Luc Longley, Andrew Gaze, Shane Heal, Chris Anstey and Andrew Bogut are some players that became well known internationally thanks to this league. The Women’s National Basketball League commenced in 1981.
The Australian women’s basketball team emerged triumphant at the 2006 FIBA World Championship for Women, claiming victory in a thrilling match. This marks a momentous milestone for the country’s sporting history and an incredible feat that will be remembered for many years to come.
Women’s basketball was officially introduced in 1892 at Smith College by Senda Berenson, a physical education teacher who had modified Naismith’s rules to be played by women. Impressed by the sport and its potential for teaching valuable lessons, she organized the first women’s intercollegiate game on March 21, 1893, between Smith freshmen and sophomores. Two years later, her rules were published, and she became the editor of A.G. Spalding’s Women’s Basketball Guide. In 1895, teams from Wellesley, Vassar and Bryn Mawr began playing against each other, however it wasn’t until April 4, 1896, that the first intercollegiate women’s game occurred when Stanford fielded a team against Berkeley with Stanford ultimately prevailing 2–1.
In the early years, women’s basketball development was more structured than that of men. In 1905, the American Physical Education Association established the Executive Committee on Basketball Rules (National Women’s Basketball Committee) with rules requiring six to nine players per team and 11 officials. The International Women’s Sports Federation included a women’s basketball tourney in 1924- and 37-women’s varsity high school or state tournaments were held by 1925. Additionally, the Amateur Athletic Union sponsored the first national women’s basketball championship under men’s rules in 1926. The Edmonton Grads based in Alberta; Canada operated from 1915 through 1940. This team had an incredible record of 522 wins and only 20 losses as they toured all over North America, funded by ticket sales from their matches with any other team. On their trips across Europe for exhibition games, they won four consecutive Olympics-level competitions in 1924, 1928, 1932 and 1936 – although women’s basketball was not an official Olympic sport until 1976. Players of this team received no salary but had to remain single while they focused on playing as a team rather than showcasing individual skills. The first Women’s AAU All-America team was selected in 1929 and industrial leagues for female athletes sprang up throughout America including the Golden
The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), which is supported by the NBA, started playing in 1997. Although it had a slow start on the attendance front, several top-tier athletes such as Lisa Leslie, Diana Taurasi and Candace Parker have contributed to its growing recognition and level of competitiveness. The success of the WNBA has been a factor in the demise of other US-based women’s basketball leagues like the American Basketball League which existed from 1996 to 1998. Though initially thought of as an offshoot league, recent developments have shown otherwise; a contract extension with ESPN was agreed upon in 2007, extending until 2016 and providing the first ever broadcasting fees for a female professional sports league over their eight-year duration. To emphasize its importance, NBA Commissioner David Stern commented that due to financial instability among many teams, “the WNBA is far less profitable than the NBA” during an interview on March 12th, 2009, with “millions and millions of dollars” being distributed to its teams.
Rules and regulations
A game has come to an end as the clock ticks down to zero. The players are exhausted from their efforts during the duration of the match, and the crowd is silenced by its dramatic conclusion.
Hoops, rim and net are some of the terms associated with the basketball court. The three-point arc which is measured at 23.75 feet from the central point of the hoop is also important as it measures a team’s success rate in shooting shots from deep.
Basketball is a game that can be played with two or more players. The main objective of the game is to score points by shooting a round ball through a hoop. The rules of basketball are the regulations and guidelines that govern the play, mechanics, and conduct of this sport.
This section considers the parameters set forth by both international and NBA rules, which may differ from one tournament or organization to another.
The aim of the game is to outscore one’s opponents by shooting the ball through their basket from above and stopping them from doing same. This effort is called a shot, which earns two points, or three if taken from beyond the 3-point arc (measures 6.75 meters in international games and 23 feet 9 inches in NBA games). Additionally, a one-point shot can be earned after shooting from the foul line following a foul. After either team has scored from a field goal or free throw, play continues with a throw-in awarded to the non-scoring team at the point beyond where the points were scored.
Playing regulations
In basketball games, the length of each period varies. According to FIBA regulations, 10 minutes are allowed for each quarter whilst the NBA allows 12 minutes per quarter. College men’s games consist of two 20-minute halves, college women’s games are divided into 10-minute quarters and most U.S high school varsity games use 8-minutes quarters though this differs depending on state law. During halftime, FIBA, NBA and NCAA rules stipulate 15 minutes while U.S high schools allow just 10 minutes. Overtime periods typically last five minutes in FIBA, NBA and NCAA games, with the exception of U.S high schools where a four-minute overtime is played. When teams exchange baskets after the second half, the gaming time can be extended due to stoppages; it usually takes around two hours to complete a game despite the designated allotted game time.
A maximum of five players from each team can be on the court at one time. Players may be substituted without limitation; however, this is only possible during a stoppage in play. A coach looking after the development and strategies of the team leads every team, as well as other personnel like assistant coaches, administrators, statisticians, health professionals and fitness trainers.
Uniforms of both male and female teams consist of a number-printed jersey accompanied by shorts. High-top sneakers are standard for all players, offering additional ankle support. Depending on the league, uniforms may also be printed with team names, players’ names or sponsors.
A coach may request (or the NBA can mandate) a time-out up to a certain limit. These meetings typically don’t last much longer than 100 seconds but, during television broadcasts, they are extended to accommodate promotional spots.
The game is managed by the officials, comprising the referee (known as crew chief in the NBA) and one or two umpires (called referees in the NBA). College, the NBA, and plenty of high schools have three referees on the court. It’s up to the table officials to track each team’s score, timekeeping, individual/team fouls, player substitutions, team possession arrow, and shot clock.
Equipment
Basketball is played with a ball on a court, which typically has a backboard. The main components of this sport are the ball, the court, and the backboard.
A traditional eight-panel basketball is a type of classic ball that has been around for many years. It is constructed with eight panels and a set of laces that can be used to close it. This type of ball has been popular in basketball since its invention and continues to be very much in use today.
Basketball requires one primary piece of equipment: the ball. Additionally, a court is needed, which is typically a flat, rectangular surface with baskets at each end. For competitive playing levels, more items such as clocks, score sheets, scoreboards, alternating possession arrows and whistle-operated stop-clock systems may be used.
is perfect for outdoor basketball games and can be used just about anywhere. It can provide hours of entertainment, enabling you to have a good time with friends and family.
The regulations for a basketball court in international games dictate that its length must be 28m (92ft) and its width 15m (49ft). However, the measurements of an NBA or NCAA court are 94ft by 50ft (29m by 15m). Commonly, the flooring is crafted from maple planks which run parallel to the longer court dimension. Not only that, but it’s also customary to have the home team’s name and logo placed around the center circle.
The basket stands 18 inches (46 cm) with a steel rim and an attached net affixed to a backboard that measures 6 by 3.5 feet (1.8 by 1.1 meters). It is standard at almost all levels of competition for the top of the rim to be exactly 10 feet (3.05 meters) above the court and 4 feet (1.22 meters) inside the baseline; however, variations are possible in terms of both court dimensions and backboard size. The important consideration is that it must be correctly tall – a tiny difference of a few inches can significantly affect shooting accuracy. Additionally, when the ball passes through the basket, the net should momentarily check it, providing visual affirmation that it has gone through as well as slowing down its rebound.
In basketball, the size of the ball is regulated depending on the gender of the players. For men, a size 7 or 295 ball must have a circumference of 29.5 inches (75 cm) and weighs 22 oz (620 g). Women must use a size 6 or 285 ball with a circumference of 28.5 inches (72 cm) and weighing 20 oz (570 g). In 3×3, which is a formalized version of the halfcourt 3-on-3 game, all teams – whether men’s, women’s or mixed – utilize a dedicated ball with the circumference of a size 6 but with the weight of a size 7.
In basketball, a violation is an infraction of the rules. It occurs when a player or team does not comply with one of the rules of the game. This could include moving or travelling with the ball, double-dribbling, goaltending, and more.
The ball can be propelled towards the basket via shooting, passing between players, throwing, tapping, rolling or dribbling (a technique which entails bouncing the ball while running).
The ball must remain on the court; if it exits the field of play, because it touched a boundary line, or an out-of-bounds player or object, then possession is lost by the team that had last touched it.
Players are only allowed to take a certain amounts of steps without dribbling the basketball; this is called traveling. It is also not permitted to restart the dribble after stopping it, which is referred to as double-dribbling. Additionally, carrying the ball by putting one’s hand underneath it as opposed to dribbling it is not allowed and results in losing possession. The last violation occurs when a team brings the ball back into their backcourt area before anyone else has touched it. All of these infractions lead to loss of possession.
Kicking or striking the ball with the fist is not allowed, and if it happens there, are consequences. For the offense, they lose possession; for the defense, most leagues reset the shot clock and give the offending team possession of the ball out of bounds.
Rules have been put in place to encourage more offense play. These include limiting the time taken to progress the ball past halfway (8 seconds FIBA and NBA; 10 seconds NCAA and high school for both sexes), waiting 24 seconds before attempting a shot (FIBA, NBA, U Sports) or 30 seconds (NCAA) for both sexes, holding the ball while closely guarded (5 seconds) and staying in the restricted area known as the free-throw lane (or ‘key’) for 3 seconds.
Players may not use their bodies to block a field goal attempt or help a teammate, or else face the consequences of goaltending and basket interference. If goaltending is committed by a defender, the offensive team would benefit with the basket being awarded. If it is committed by an offensive player, the basket would be cancelled if one has been scored. Regardless of which team commits the violation, however, possession will be given to the defense.
Fouls
Illegal physical contact intended to give one opponent an unfair advantage is called a personal foul. Defenses commit the most of these, but offenses are not exempt from the rule. When someone is fouled, the result can be either a turnover or free throws; this depends on whether a shot was attempted. Free throws may be taken from fifteen feet and result in one point if successful.
The referee has the authority to assess whether contact is against the rules, which can at times lead to debate. Fouls can be interpreted differently between games, leagues and referees.
A second type of foul is the technical, which may be enforced for a variety of rules violations, from not indicating a player’s number in the scorebook to displaying unsportsmanlike behavior. Depending on the severity of the offense, this can lead to one or two free throws that any of the five players on court may take. Constant wrongdoing can even trigger ejection. Another foul is known as an intentional (or flagrant in the NBA), when physical contact is unnecessary or excessive. In FIBA and NCAA women’s basketball, a foul leading to dismissal is termed a disqualifying foul, while in other leagues than the NBA it’s referred to as flagrant.
Should a team exceed the limit of fouls for a period in such leagues as the NBA, NCAA women’s or international games, they will be subject to penalty; their opponents awarded one or two free throws on all subsequent non-shooting fouls in the relevant period. In US college men’s and high school games for both sexes, if more than 7 fouls have been committed in a half, then one free throw will be awarded, with the possibility to take a second shot if the first is successful- known as shooting “one-and-one”. Exceeding 10 fouls per half will result in two free throws for all subsequent fouls for that period.
When a team is taking foul shots, the opposition is not permitted to disrupt the shooter or attempt to retrieve the ball until the last or potentially final free throw has been launched.
Once a team has committed a preset number of fouls, they are said to be “in the bonus”; signified on scoreboards by an indicator light reading either “Bonus” or “Penalty”, with an illuminated directional arrow or dot. Additionally, some scoreboards display the actual number of fouls committed.
If a team fails to convert on the initial shot of a two-shot opportunity, the other squad must wait until the second attempt is finished before trying to take control of the ball and continue with gameplay.
If a player is fouled during an attempted shot, they will be given a number of free throws equivalent to the worth of that shot. Two-pointers earn two chances, and three-point attempts are rewarded with three opportunities.
If a player is fouled while attempting a shot and the attempt is successful, they usually get one free throw for one point. This combination is referred to as a “three-point play” or “four-point play” (or in informal terms, an “and one”) due to the points earned through the basket and free throw.
Different approaches and customary techniques
Basketball teams have a variety of positions. Team members take on different roles based on the specific game situation. Positions include point guards, shooting guards, small forwards, power forwards, and centers.
In the offensive zone, each team in a basketball game has five players that take up certain positions. The point guard is usually the leader, directing the offense and passing the ball. The other four positions include the shooting guard, small forward, power forward and center. Each player needs to understand their role in order to create a coordinated and successful team effort.
The rules of basketball may not dictate positions, however, as it has developed over time, certain positions have become commonplace. In the early days, two guards and two forwards alongside one center were used. More recently though, coaches such as Mike Krzyzewski are driving the trend of positionless basketball where players of larger sizes are permitted to shoot from outside and have more control over ball-handling. Common roles include:
The point guard, commonly referred to as the “1”, is typically the quickest player on the team. They are responsible for managing the team’s offensive flow, maneuvering the ball and ensuring it reaches its intended target at the right time.
The shooting guard, commonly referred to as the “2,” is the offensive force behind a high volume of shots, mostly long-distance. On defense, their job is to shut down the opposing team’s leading perimeter player.
Small forwards (“3″s) are often in charge of accumulating points through dribble penetration and by cutting to the basket. On defense, they go after rebounds and steals, but can occasionally become more active.
The power forward, or “4”, tends to play offensively with their back turned to the rim. Defensively they may be stationed under the hoop in zone defence or assigned to cover the opposing power forward in man-to-man defence.
Center is a position in which height and size are used to score on offense, defend close to the basket, and rebound.
The above descriptions are adaptable. Generally, shooting guards and small forwards share many of the same duties, and are colloquially known as wings. Meanwhile, power forwards and centers may be referred to as post players. Though most teams classify two players as guards, two as forwards, and one as a center, teams occasionally opt to use alternative terms.
Strategy
A basketball playbook is a collection of plays and strategies used in the game of basketball. It contains a variety of plays that have been developed and used by coaches to teach their teams how to play. It also includes diagrams, descriptions, and tips on executing each play effectively.
Two primary defensive strategies are employed in basketball: zone defense that entails having each player responsible for a certain section of the court, and with it being possible to double team the ball through a maneuver known as a trap, and man-to-man defense that involves each defender marking an individual opponent.
Offensive plays usually involve pre-planned passes and movement by players without the ball. Cuts, which involve a quick move to gain an advantageous position, are common. When an offensive player attempts to create space for a teammate by obstructing the defender’s path, it is called a screen or pick. These two methods are frequently combined in the pick and roll, which involves a screen followed by rolling away towards the basket. Both techniques of screens and cuts are essential in helping teams achieve successful baskets via fast passes and teamwork. To ensure unpredictability, teams often have multiple offensive plays on hand; their point guard is typically responsible for communicating which one should be used during games.
Shooting star streak across the night sky.
The player launches a brief jump shot while her defender is either on the ground or attempting to draw a foul.
Attempting to score points by throwing the ball through the hoop is known as shooting. The techniques used will vary depending on the individual and circumstances.
A player shooting a basketball aims to get the ball in the basket by typically facing it with both feet. The dominant hand rests the ball on their fingertips, slightly above the head, with the other hand supporting it. Jumping is often used with a fully extended arm and bent wrist to set up a follow-through. Quite often, backspin is applied while aiming for an ideal arc trajectory into the basket or using the backboard for redirecting it.
The two primary shots associated with this setup are the set shot and the jump shot. The shooter will crouch before each to preload their muscles, resulting in greater power and accuracy. A set shot requires no movement of either foot, most often used for free throws, while a jump shot involves releasing the ball near the peak of jump to gain elevation over a defender. If the shooter doesn’t release the ball before their feet touch down, it is considered traveling.
The layup is a frequently used shot and entails the player running towards the basket before ‘laying’ the ball in. An underhand variation, known as a finger roll, does not require using the backboard. The most entertaining, and usually most successful, shot of all is the slam dunk, where the player jumps very high and throws the ball down through the hoop while making contact with it.
Less commonplace than a layup, the circus shot is a risky manoeuvre in which a player flips, heaves, scoops or flings the ball toward the rim while off-balance, airborne or tumbling down. It also covers back-shots that are attempted with one or both hands, although they have little likelihood of success.
A shot that completely misses the rim and backboard is known as an air ball. A poor attempt at a basket is humorously referred to as a brick, especially if it only hits the backboard. Hang time is the duration a player spends in the air when attempting a dunk, layup or jump shot.
Rebounding is a great way to get fit.
Gaining possession of the basketball after a missed field goal or free throw is the main objective of rebounding and often holds major consequence in the game. Possessions typically end when a team does not make a shot. Therefore, rebounds are divided into two categories: offensive and defensive. Offensive rebounds are obtained by the offensive side without changing possession while defensive rebounds are secured by the defending team. The defense usually has an upper hand in securing these chances which is why roughly 75% of NBA rebounds are defensive ones.
Passing
Passing is the method of transferring the ball between players. It usually requires taking a step forward to generate more force and making sure to follow through with one’s hands in order to ensure precision.
A chest pass is a must-know staple for any basketball player. It’s a pass that goes right from the passer’s chest to the receivers, and snaps of the thumbs add some speed and catch the defense off guard.
Another way to pass is the bounce pass. This is when the player sends the ball with a sharp bounce two-thirds of the way between themselves and the receiver. As it lands on the court, it will hop into the hands of its intended target. It may take a bit longer than a chest pass, but it makes it more difficult for opponents to interfere; any violation with kicking is prohibited here. Subsequently, players often utilize this method in tight situations or while attempting to get past an opponent.
The overhead pass is used to get the ball over a defender by releasing it above the passer’s head.
After obtaining a defensive rebound, the team’s next pass is an outlet pass.
A good pass is one that’s hard to intercept. Those adept at passing can place it accurately with precision, and they know precisely where each teammate prefers the ball to be delivered. No-look passes are a unique way of delivering the ball without looking at the one receiving it.
An advanced way to pass is the behind-the-back toss. As implied by the name, it is a technique in which the ball is thrown behind one’s backside to a teammate. It can be effectively done by some players, but many trainers are of the opinion that this no-look method should be discouraged due to its higher risk of leading to miscommunications or turnovers.
Dribbling is an art; it is a skill that requires mastering. Dribblers must be able to manoeuvre the ball with their feet while they are on the move. A successful dribbler will be able to keep control of the ball, even while they are running at a quick pace.
A demonstration of the fundamental kinds of dribbling in basketball can be given. This can help to illustrate the different styles used by players when maneuvering a ball up and down the court.
The individual from the U.S. Naval Academy tussles with a U.S. Military Academy guard, preventing them from successfully defending their court.
Dribble is a basketball technique. It involves the player bouncing the ball up and down with one hand while moving along the court, avoiding defenders. The player will be able to maintain control of the ball while maneuvering around opponents.
Dribbling is an essential skill for a player, requiring them to continually bounce the ball with one hand. When dribbling, rather than patting the ball, a player must push it down towards the floor using their fingertips in order to have greater control.
It is essential for a player to be able to dribble competently with both hands when trying to get past an opponent. This will make it easier to keep the ball away, making it harder for the defensive player to reach it.
Good dribblers aim to keep their dribbling hand low, significantly reducing the amount of space the ball needs to travel. They also employ intricate moves such as crossovers and behind-the-backs, making it harder for defenders to steal possession. These methods create an unpredictable pattern that’s more difficult to defend against and is the most efficient way to move past a defender while dribbling.
A skilled player can dribble without having to fixate on the ball, using either the dribbling movement or their peripheral sight in order to keep track of where it is. This allows them to scan for potential teammates or openings to score, as well as dodge the danger of having the ball get snatched from them.
Blocking
A block is performed when, after a shot is attempted, a defender succeeds in altering the trajectory of the ball. In most variants of play, it is illegal to touch the ball once it has started its downward arc; this infringement is referred to as goaltending. The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Men’s NCAA basketball also prohibit blocking shots which have touched the backboard or when any part of the basketball is above the rim. According to international rules, reaching for a shot that has already begun its descent or having touched the backboard remains illegal until it has come into contact with the rim. After hitting the rim, it becomes permissible again, although no longer regarded as a block.
A player must be able to reach a point higher than the release point of a shot in order to successfully block it. Height, thus, can become an asset for those at the power forward or center positions as they often register more blocks than their shorter guard counterparts. However, with proper timing and adequate leaping ability, short players can be just as successful at swatting shots.
How Tall
Joonas Suotamo, the Finnish American former professional center, stands at 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 m), which is not as tall compared to many other centers who have heights exceeding 7 feet (2.13 m).
Professional basketball is a game where players’ size matters. Most male players at this level are over 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m) and most women over 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 m). Guards, who need excellent physical coordination and ball-handling abilities, are often the shortest players on the court. Almost all forwards in top-level men’s leagues measure at least 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 m), while most centers stand over 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 m). According to an NBA survey, [when?] the average height of its players is nearly 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 m), and their average weight is 222 pounds (101 kg). The tallest individuals to grace the NBA were Manute Bol and Gheorghe Mureșan at 7 feet 7 inches (2.31 m). In the WNBA, Margo Dydek holds that record at 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 m).
At just 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 m), Muggsy Bogues is the shortest player to have ever played in the NBA. Other small players who have achieved success include Anthony “Spud” Webb (5 ft 7 in, 1.70 m) and Temeka Johnson (also 5 ft 3 in, 1.60 m), both of whom earned Rookie of the Year Awards and championships. Although their stature may be a setback in some aspects of the game, short players benefit from their quickness on court and ability to reach low for ball steals.
Players commonly exaggerate their height while in high school or college to appear more attractive to coaches and scouts, who usually prefer taller players. Charles Barkley once commented: “I’ve been measured at 6-5, 6-4+3⁄4. But I started in college at 6-6.” Sam Smith, a former writer from the Chicago Tribune, also said: “We kind of recognize the heights, but when you report the correct dimensions, the player gets angry. Then his agent calls. Or you submit your story with the accurate height, but the copy desk alters it since they have ‘official’ N.B.A. media guide data which is wrong – so you essentially play along with the joke.
Since 2019-20, the NBA has kept definitive records of players’ heights by removing their shoes for measurement.
There are numerous types of games that bear resemblance to each other.
Various forms of basketball exist that employ the same basic skills and equipment of the classic game, only with slight modifications. These modifications can be minor changes or whole different games altogether that draw some inspiration from basketball. Children’s games, challenges or drills are all possible options to assist players in honing their skill set.
An earlier iteration of basketball, usually played by women and girls, was six-on-six. Horseball is a unique sporting activity that incorporates aspects of polo, rugby and basketball; it involves riding on horseback and controlling the ball while trying to shoot it through a high net (approximately 1.5m×1.5m). Additionally, Donkey Basketball has grown in popularity – though it has been met with moral criticism from animal welfare organizations.
Half-court basketball
Half-court basketball is a popular variation that can be played in informal settings without referees and rigid rules. As only one basket is utilized, each time the ball is passed or dribbled outside of the three-point line, it must be taken back or cleared. This type of basketball does not require as much cardiovascular activity considering players do not have to move up and down a full court. In addition, half-court games can accommodate more players for courts with an insufficient amount to form 5-on-5 teams.
Half-court basketball normally features 1-on-1, 2-on-2, or 3-on-3 competition. The latter version has been popularly known as FIBA 33 and has become increasingly acknowledged. It was first demonstrated at the 2007 Asian Indoor Games in Macau and was officially played at the 2009 Asian Youth Games and 2010 Youth Olympics in Singapore. Two years later, the first FIBA 3×3 Youth World Championships took place in Rimini, Italy, followed by the senior team championships in Athens in 2012. There is great anticipation that it will become an Olympic sport by 2016.In 2017, the BIG3 basketball league launched with professional 3×3 half-court basketball as its focus. This league is made up of former NBA players and even allows four pointers to be scored.
There are now more options and variants available.
Various forms of basketball have their own special section. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, all of which have their own distinct and unique page.
21 is a card game that has multiple names such as American, cutthroat and roughhouse.
The dog barked angrily and fiercely, its angry barking echoing all around.
Journeying around the world offers countless opportunities to explore different cultures and sample exotic cuisine. Travelling globally gives you a chance to gain insight into how others live, learn about their customs, challenges and successes.
Bounce is an exciting, exhilarating activity. It provides a thrilling experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Everyone can have fun bouncing around and getting their hearts pumping! Bounce offers an enjoyable and stimulating way to stay fit and energized.
The firing squad is an extremely brutal and vicious form of execution. It involves shooting people with guns, often at close range, and it can be emotionally traumatizing for those ordered to carry out the lethal shots. The firing squad is a terrible way to end someone’s life, offering no mercy or reprieve.
Fives is an exciting game which involves hand-eye coordination. It requires players to use their hands, as well as their vision, in order to react quickly and accurately. The objective of the game is to hit a ball against a wall with your hand in such a way that your opponent cannot return it. This game involves quick reflexes and agility, making it both challenging and thrilling.
Hoops, oh hoops! Basketball is a game of fun and skills. It’s a popular sport to play; the aim is to shoot baskets in order to win. You can have a great time competing with friends using the classic game of H-O-R-S-E – taking turns trying to make shots that your opponents must then replicate or lose a letter until they spell out the word.
Hotshot is an up-and-coming sports equipment company. They specialize in providing high quality, durable gear for athletes of all levels. Whether you’re a professional or just beginning, Hotshot has the equipment you need to perform at your peak. Their wide selection of products includes everything from running shoes and protective gear to team uniforms and accessories. Hotshot is quickly becoming the go-to for those looking for top-notch gear.
The knockout punch is a powerful punch that can render an opponent unconscious. It is used in boxing and other combat sports and has the capacity to end a fight with one precise strike.
Achieving success in a single attempt is possible. Triumph can be realized with just one try and victory is attainable with a solitary effort.
Steal The Bacon is an ancient game which goes back centuries. This game requires two players and the aim is for them to take possession of a piece of bacon or similar object. Although it has been around for years, it is just as popular today as it was during ancient times.
Tip-it is a great app for all of us who want to save time. It’s the perfect solution for those of us who are looking for an efficient and fast way to get things done. With Tip-it, you can do everything quicker than ever before.
Start by breaking down the paragraph and replacing any repeated words with synonyms.
“This individual” is one deserving of the title “The One”. They are incomparable and worthy of profound admiration. Their presence stands out in a crowd, and they possess innumerable qualities that make them unique. This person can be admired for their kindness, intelligence, and strength.
The basketball war between the two teams was intense. Both sides were fighting furiously and showing no mercy. The competition was very close, and it looked like it would be a close-fought battle until the end.
Water basketball is a fun and entertaining sport that can be enjoyed both in the pool and in the sea. It’s a great way to spend time with friends or family, and it’s an exciting activity for anyone who loves the water. You can have as much fun playing on your own as you would with others, and it’s an ideal option for those looking for something different to do on a hot summer day.
Beach basketball is an immensely popular outdoor sport. It has been played for many years and it remains a source of entertainment for countless people.
Streetball is a sport that is gaining in popularity. This rapidly growing sport has become more and more popular as the years have gone by.
One-on-one is an alternative wherein two people will employ a limited area of the court (maybe no bigger than half the court) and compete to score the ball in a single hoop. This game often highlights particular abilities such as controlling the ball and intercepting it, rather than shooting and team collaboration.
Dunk Hoops can be traced back to the increased popularity of the slam dunk. It involves a basketball hoop set at a lower height (under 10 feet) than in regular regulations, as well as different goaltending rules. This allows for more chances of dunking on the court.
Unicycle basketball is played on a regulation basketball court using rules that are consistent with the sport, such as dribbling while riding. Uniquely, players must have one foot on a pedal when in-bounding the ball. The equipment used during a game includes 24″ or smaller unicycles and plastic pedals so as to minimize harm to both the court and players’ legs. North America has become particularly noted for its popular unicycle basketball events.
Futsal, Foot Basketball and Slam Ball. These three sports are all spin-offs from basketball, having been derived from different elements of the original game.
Ringball, a South African sport with its roots in basketball, has been enjoyed since 1907. Today, it is widely promoted across countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, India, and Mauritius to bring the game to an international level.
Korfball is a Dutch-originated ball game, drawing characteristics from both netball and basketball, and played by mixed genders. It has spread across the world since its inception.
Netball is a limited-contact team sport which involves two teams of seven aiming to score points by putting the ball through a raised hoop. The ANZ Championship, a tournament featuring the Australia New Zealand champions, is renowned across both countries as the top netball league. Once purely a game for women, contemporary mixed-gender competitions have changed the face of the sport.
Invented by television writer Mason Gordon, Slamball is an intense full-contact sport. In place of the usual hardwood court, there are four trampolines set into the floor beneath a padded rim and backboard. This allows players to launch themselves to exceptional heights for slam dunks! The rules also permit contact between teams of four players, so it’s a game of strength and agility. Slamball made its professional debut on Spike TV in 2002 and has since gained popularity across the globe, reaching countries such as China.
In 1969, a basketballer in Israel was making a name for himself. He had become renowned for his skill and technique on the court.
In the year 1969, an Israeli individual had a career as a basketball player.
Schoolgirls in Dharamsala, India, play basketball among the Himalayas.
In the picturesque mountains of Dharamsala, India, schoolgirls can be seen playing basketball with enthusiasm. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, these young athletes demonstrate their skill and teamwork as they enjoy the game.
The Phan Đình Phùng High School, Hanoi, Vietnam offers a basketball training course.
The Phan Đình Phùng High School in Hanoi, Vietnam is offering a basketball training course.
A basketball court can be found in Tamil Nadu, India. This court is the perfect spot for anyone looking to practice or play a game of basketball. The court is located in a convenient area, making it easily accessible to those who come to use it.
In the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, there is a basketball court for players to practice their skills. It provides a safe and secure environment for players of all ages to learn and develop their interest in the sport. The court is open to everyone, offering an ideal venue for basketball fans to show off their talents.
Basketball can be played in a variety of forms – non-competitively, competitively and recreationally. From passing around a ball casually with friends to competing in an intense full court game, the sport offers lots of different experiences.
A privately owned basketball hoop is a common sight in many yards. This type of hoop can be seen in a variety of backyards, often providing much-needed recreational activities.
Basketball, unlike professional and televised versions, comes with different rules and demographics in its social and communal settings.
Recreational basketball is a great way to stay physically fit while having fun. It is a wonderful sport that offers physical exercise, camaraderie, and an abundance of enjoyment.
Basketball is a popular extracurricular, intramural, and amateur sport enjoyed in schools and colleges. It can be found in many notable institutions, including:
Schools and academies dedicated to basketball provide students with the opportunity to acquire fundamental skills, focus on fitness and endurance, as well as learn proper passing, ball handling, dribbling, shooting from different angles, rebounding, offensive movements, defensive postures, layups, screens and the underlying rules and ethics of the game. Basketball camps are also popular for preparing individuals for competitions or tournaments while clinics offer the chance to refine one’s technique.
College basketball, played in universities and other higher education institutions, includes the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s intercollegiate competition.
Disabled players must have access to the right equipment.
Deaf basketball, as one of the several forms of deaf sports, uses signing to communicate. In essence, any deaf sporting event’s purpose is to promote socialization in a population that is dispersed and rarely encountered.
Wheelchair basketball is a modified version of traditional basketball, adapted for disabled people who use wheelchairs. It’s one of the major sporting events for people with disabilities and has its own classification system to ensure fairness in competition. This system assesses players’ performance by conducting field-testing and analyzing game behavior, assigning them scores from 1 to 4.5.
Others Forms
Biddy basketball is a pastime enjoyed by young people, sometimes in official competitions, around the world.
LGBTQIA+ basketball is a widely played sport in many queer communities, especially within the Gay Games, World Outgames and EuroGames. It’s a major part of these events.
Midnight basketball is a program designed to keep youngsters off of the streets and out of trouble in urban communities, replacing potential criminal activities with exciting ball games. The initiative aims to prevent crime by providing an outlet for young people who might otherwise become involved in drugs or illegal activity.
Rezball has developed as a major sport across many Native American reservations and has gained a passionate following due to its distinctive style of play. Referred to as ‘reservation ball’, it is particularly popular amongst the Native American community.
Fantasy basketball is a fun activity for basketball fans to participate in. It allows people to build their own dream teams and predict who will win the championships. It can be an entertaining and interesting way to engage with the sport and follow players throughout the season.
The 1990s saw a surge in popularity for fantasy basketball, thanks largely to ESPN Fantasy Sports, NBA.com and Yahoo! Fantasy Sports. The game is based on the concepts of fantasy baseball and football; players build their own squad of professional basketball players via a mock draft or trades, and then obtain points relative to how the stars perform in reality.