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, with a hoop at each end. Players advance the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball while running) or passing it to teammates. Points are scored by making field goals (two or three points) or free throws (one point). Basketball combines physical skill, strategy, and teamwork, and is known for its fast pace and high-scoring nature. The sport originated in the United States in the late 19th century and has since become a major global phenomenon, with professional leagues, international competitions, and a strong following at the amateur level.