Basketball

Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team’s hoop, which is elevated 10 feet above the ground. The game is played on a rectangular court, and points can be scored in various ways, including field goals (worth two or three points, depending on the distance from the hoop) and free throws (worth one point).

Players can advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball while running) or passing it to teammates. The objective of the game is to outscore the opposing team by the end of the game, which is typically divided into quarters or halves. Basketball not only emphasizes individual skills like shooting, passing, and dribbling but also teamwork, strategy, and defense.

Originating in the United States in the late 19th century, basketball has grown into a globally popular sport, with professional leagues, most notably the NBA (National Basketball Association) in the United States, drawing millions of fans and players worldwide. The sport is characterized by its fast pace, high scoring, and the athleticism of its players, making it one of the most exciting and influential sports in the world.