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, which is elevated 10 feet above the ground. The game is played on a rectangular court with a hoop at each end. Players advance the ball by dribbling or passing it to teammates, and they can score points by making field goals from various areas of the court or free throws awarded after certain fouls. The objective is to accumulate more points than the opposing team, and the game is played in four quarters or periods, depending on the level of play. Basketball emphasizes skills such as shooting, dribbling, passing, and defensive tactics. The sport is played at various levels, from amateur leagues to professional competitions, including the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the United States. It is also a popular recreational activity worldwide.