Basketball is a sport that involves dribbling and shooting. It is played on a basketball court, which is rectangular in shape and 91 feet long by 50 feet wide. The court is marked with a small circle in the center, called the tip-off, and two baskets – one on each side of the court, each 10 feet high. The goal is to gain possession of the ball before the other team does, and score as many points as possible.
The game is played in two halves. One team plays on offense, and aims to score field goals by shooting, passing, and dribbling the ball. There are rules that govern how to score, and three-point shots are worth three points. The other team scores one point for each possession. In addition to this, two-point shots are worth two points.
The center of a basketball team is typically the tallest player on the court. His defensive duties involve picking rebounds and guarding the opposition’s shooter. In addition, the center plays an offensive role, executing the game plan devised by the coach. The center can also shield the other team’s defenders, which helps prevent the opposition from shooting.
The history of basketball can be traced back to the 1890s. James Naismith, a physical education teacher at Springfield College, first invented the sport in 1891. His goal was to create a sport that would keep students active during the cold winter months. To do this, Naismith took an old game called Duck on a Rock and modified it. The game consisted of two nine-player teams. In the early days, players would throw soccer balls into a peach-shaped basket.
The game is physically demanding and helps you develop coordination in all parts of the body. An hour’s play can burn 600-750 calories. It can also boost your stamina and improve your concentration. A good player must be able to analyze situations quickly and make strategic decisions. A player must also be motivated and have self-confidence to keep playing the sport.
The game quickly gained popularity and spread across the United States. Hundreds of men’s professional teams formed throughout the 20th century. They played in armories and smoky dance halls. The game became popular in many countries, and soon many high schools introduced it to their students. Its popularity even increased with the proliferation of television and cable television.
Basketball is a team sport played by two teams of five players. During organized games, the teams use basketball baskets attached to the backboard at either end of the court. Goals are scored when the ball goes through the basket in the opposing team’s court. A field goal is worth two points and a three-pointer is worth three.
A FIBA-sanctioned game usually includes four quarters, with the fourth quarter lasting ten minutes. In case of a tie, the game may proceed to overtime if necessary.