Basketball is a sport where players compete with each other to score points by shooting the ball through a basket. The team with more points at the end of regulation time wins the game. If the score is tied at the end of regulation time, the game goes into overtime periods until one team wins.
The rules of the game vary by league and age level. For example, in high school games, halves are usually eight minutes long. In professional basketball, the quarters are twelve minutes each. The games are played with a referee, who tosses the ball between two players at center court. The player who gets the ball first scores a point for his team.
There are a variety of rules that are enforced by the referee. These include rules about time-limits, fouls and violations.
If a defender is too close to the basket, they can get called for a foul. In addition, players can be penalized for personal fouls, including any type of illegal physical contact.
In the NBA, a foul can lead to a free inbound pass for the other team and a shot at the basket. The other team can also shoot free throws, which are worth 2 or 3 points.
When a player is close to the basket, they can be called for a foul if they do not leave the area within three seconds. If they do not leave within that time, the foul is called and possession of the ball is given to the other team.
To dribble, you need to bounce the ball against the floor continuously using one hand at a time. You can dribble higher or lower depending on the situation, but you need to make sure that you’re bouncing the ball continuously.
You can practice dribbling by standing still and bouncing the ball with each hand, moving forward slowly until you reach your target. Once you have the feel for dribbling, you can then start dribbling faster.
While dribbling, keep your head on a swivel and track the ball at all times. You can also use your peripheral vision to track the location of the ball while dribbling.
If you need to change direction, you can do this by dribbling toward your lead foot and then quickly switching directions with your other foot. Doing this often will help you learn to switch direction with ease and prevent defenders from blocking your path.
Once you’ve mastered your dribble, try adding in some jump shots and other moves. This will make you more versatile, and it will help you become a better basketball player.
A key to success is learning how to set picks and screens effectively. This is a good way to create openings for your teammates.
For the best results, work on these skills with structured drills and practices. This will give you a solid foundation of basketball fundamentals and skills that will make you a better player on the court, no matter your age.
