Basketball is a very popular sport where two competing teams, usually of five players each, play against each other on a circular court, with the main goal of scoring the winning basket through the opponent’s hoop. Most sports refer to basketball as “futebol”. Futebol, derived from the Spanish word for ball, has been the favorite sport of generations of ball players and the name is synonymous with the game. The origin of basketball can be traced as far back as 7th century Spain.
Today, basketball is played by individuals of any age, although children seem to enjoy the game the most. In a typical game of basketball, two teams are set up with two players on each team at the corners of the court. The basketball is usually played in a small court size, sometimes no less than thirty-two inches by thirty-six inches. The foul line is eight feet from the center of the foul line. The ball is normally put into play by “picking” the ball from the corner of the court. Normally the ball is in a basket, but occasionally it is carried by a player on the floor.
Basketball involves many different skills, including control of the ball, balance, finesse in shooting (frolf), decision making, teamwork and defense. The offensive player tries to make the shot and the defensive player tries to stop the shot, using any means available to prevent the opponent from making a basket. Usually the two teams play at approximately thirty-two foot spacing between the center of the foul line and the mid-court line.
In a typical game, players wear jerseys made from a polyethylene Teflon material, since the material allows a gentle flow of air between the shirt and the skin, keeping both cool and fresh during the play. Another benefit of wearing a Teflon jersey is that it does not absorb the sweat that some players tend to perspire during the hot summer months. However, the material can become dirty easily if the person who is playing gets sweaty and starts to perspire under his Teflon shirt. This causes the Teflon fabric to turn from white to dark colors, making it impossible for the basketball player to see clearly.
Basketball involves a lot of moving around on the court, so a lot of players prefer to have shoes with strong soles so that they do not slip on the hardwood floor. Usually the shoes are either equipped with firm soles or the basketball player uses a combination of both so that he can move smoothly without slipping. However, sneakers tend to wear out quickly when they are used on a regular basis. If you are an occasional basketball player, it might be best for you to select a basketball shoe that has more grip on the ground.
One of the most common skills required in basketball is three-point shooting. If a player can make three-point shots well, he will surely have a good score and assist his team to win the game. The best way for a player to master the art of three-point shooting is by getting in the habit of practicing often. The other option is to hire an instructor to teach you the techniques of three-point shooting. A regular exercise routine is the best way to get into the rhythm of three-point shooting. In addition to that, you should not only concentrate on the accuracy of your three-point shot, but you should also concentrate on the rhythm with which you shoot the shots as well.
