Basketball

Basketball is a fast-paced team sport in which two teams, typically of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team’s hoop or basket elevated 10 feet above the ground. The game is played on a rectangular court and involves a combination of dribbling, passing, and shooting. Points are scored by making field goals (worth two or three points, depending on the distance from the basket) or free throws (worth one point). The primary objective is to accumulate more points than the opposing team within a regulated time frame, usually consisting of four quarters. Basketball is known for its dynamic movements, athleticism, and strategic elements, making it one of the most popular sports worldwide. It is governed by a set of rules, known as the official basketball rules, which dictate various aspects of play, including fouls, violations, and the scoring system. The sport is played at various levels, from informal street games to highly organized leagues and professional competitions, including the NBA (National Basketball Association) in the United States.