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 hoop, which is elevated 10 feet above the floor. The primary objective is to accumulate more points than the opposing team within a set time frame, usually divided into four quarters. Players advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball while running) or passing it to teammates. Scoring can occur through field goals (two or three points, depending on the distance from the hoop) or free throws (one point). The game emphasizes skills such as shooting, dribbling, passing, and defense, as well as teamwork and strategy. Basketball originated in the United States in the late 19th century and has since grown into a popular global sport, featuring professional leagues, international competitions, and a wide range of amateur play.