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 or net. The game is played on a rectangular court, with a hoop elevated 10 feet (3.05 meters) above the ground at each end. Players can advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing) it or passing it to teammates. Scoring can occur through field goals, which are worth two or three points depending on the distance from the hoop, or through free throws, which are awarded after certain fouls and are worth one point each. Basketball emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and athleticism, with players engaging in offensive and defensive plays to outscore their opponents. The sport is governed by specific rules and regulations, and it is popular worldwide, both at amateur and professional levels, with leagues such as the NBA (National Basketball Association) showcasing high-level competition. The game originated in the late 19th century and has since evolved into one of the most popular sports globally.