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 opposing team’s hoop or basket. The game is played on a rectangular court, with a hoop elevated at each end. Points are scored by making field goals, which are worth two or three points depending on the player’s distance from the basket, and by free throws, which are awarded after certain fouls and are worth one point each.

Basketball emphasizes coordination, teamwork, and strategy, and it involves various skills such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense. The sport is governed by specific rules, including fouls, violations, and the time allowed for play. It is widely played at all levels, from recreational leagues to professional competitions, with the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States being one of the most recognized leagues globally. Basketball is also an Olympic sport and has a significant cultural presence worldwide.