Basketball

Basketball is a team sport played on a rectangular court, where two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team’s basketball hoop. The hoop is elevated at a height of 10 feet (3.05 meters) and the game is played in four quarters, with teams attempting to outscore each other. Players can advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball while moving) or passing it to teammates. Points are awarded for field goals made from various distances, with shots made from beyond the three-point line earning additional points. The game emphasizes skills such as shooting, dribbling, passing, defense, and teamwork. Basketball is governed by a set of rules that regulate gameplay, including how fouls and violations are handled. It is a popular sport worldwide, enjoyed at various levels from amateur to professional, and is also a key component of many educational and recreational programs.