Basketball

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by throwing a ball through the opponent’s hoop or basket. The game is played on a rectangular court with a hoop at each end, elevated high above the floor. The primary objective is to accumulate more points than the opposing team within a set period, usually divided into quarters or halves.

Players advance the ball by dribbling, which involves bouncing the ball while walking or running, or by passing it to teammates. Points are scored through field goals, which are worth two or three points depending on the distance from the basket, and free throws, which are worth one point each and awarded after certain fouls.

Basketball requires a combination of physical skills, including agility, coordination, and endurance, as well as strategic thinking and teamwork. It is widely played at various levels, from recreational games to professional leagues, and is popular globally. The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the premier professional league in the United States, showcasing top talent and widely influencing the sport. Basketball also promotes values such as teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship.