Basketball is a team sport played on a rectangular floor called a court, with a basket elevated 10 feet off the ground (the hoop) at each end. Players advance the ball by bouncing it while walking or running (dribbling), or by passing it to a teammate. A player may also shoot the ball into the hoop. The game is scored in multiple ways, with points given for baskets made, and free throws awarded as a punishment for certain fouls. A game is divided into four quarters of varying length depending on the level of play. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
When playing basketball, it is important to have a set routine. This will help you develop your game over time and increase the chances of you sticking to a plan each time you hit the court. There are many different basketball workouts available online, so it is worth finding one that suits your individual strengths and weaknesses.
If you are looking to improve your ball handling, it is recommended that you focus on chest passes. These are where you grab the ball firmly and throw it over your head to a teammate. Overhead passes are a big part of the game, as you will have to make these numerous times throughout a game.
You can also practise your quick feet movement by running sideways and crossing your trailing foot just behind your lead foot as you push off to change directions. This technique is often used by professional players to get their opponents to jump and create space for themselves. When an offensive player pretends to shoot to try and fool their opponent into jumping, it is known as a pump fake.
The best way to improve your defensive skills is by working on your footwork. When defending, it is essential to be aware of your position on the court, and who you are guarding. Ideally you want to be guarding the player closest to the basket, so that you can easily intercept their pass and stop them from scoring. You should also practice stepping in and out of your stance, so that you can be prepared for when your opponent moves.
Another key skill that you should practise is your ability to read the player. For example, if you are guarding a player who is driving towards the basket, you should be aware that they will probably be attempting to dunk the ball, so you need to be ready to react quickly. You should also be able to anticipate their movement, so that you can stay in front of them or block their shot. Finally, you should practise your defensive communication with your teammates, as this is very important for a good defense.
