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

The sport emphasizes skills such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense, requiring both physical endurance and strategic teamwork. Basketball is governed by specific rules, including regulations about fouls, violations, and game timing. It is played in various formats, including professional leagues, college, and informal street games.

Invented by Dr. James Naismith in 1891, basketball has grown to become one of the most popular sports globally, with major leagues such as the NBA (National Basketball Association) in the United States, and international competitions like the FIBA Basketball World Cup. The sport promotes physical fitness, coordination, and social interaction, making it a widely played and celebrated activity across various cultures.