The game of basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. It is played by teams of two. Teams move around the court by dribbling, passing, and shooting. If the team with the ball scores more points, the team wins the game. Players can get into trouble for making silly mistakes, or if they don’t follow the rules.
To start the game, the referee tosses the ball into the air. Players from each team attempt to catch it. They have eight seconds to advance the ball over the halfway line. After this, the offensive team takes possession of the ball and begins to move it up the court.
When a player from the opponent’s team is in possession of the ball for more than three seconds without attempting a shot, a violation is called. This can be a technical foul or a personal foul. A free throw is an uncontested shot awarded to the opposing team after a foul is called.
Another common example is a three-second paint rule. During a game, a player from the offensive team can be in the paint for up to three seconds. However, if a player is in the paint for longer than three seconds, the offensive team is considered to be out of possession of the ball.
Another example of the smallest possible change in the game is the addition of a two-minute break in the second half of a FIBA sanctioned game. This is not required but can be a good idea to avoid a tie.
The buzzer is a reference to the shot made before the end of the quarter. It is also a measurement of how many points a shot was worth. In a game of basketball, a made basket is worth three points.
In order to score a field goal, a player from the offensive team must pass the ball to a teammate. A dunk is a slam-dunk when a player from the offensive team dunks the ball over the defender. Likewise, a floater is a shot close to the basket.
For the most part, you’ll see teams play the same way for the first half of a game, but switch sides after the second half. Each team can have up to five substitutions. Substitutions are done when a player gets in trouble or is not allowed to play.
During the first half of a game, players on both teams are given a chance to show off their skills. Occasionally, a fast break, a trick shot, or a dunk is made. These are usually the most exciting moments of the game.
Other terms that you’ll hear in a game of basketball include the buzzer, tipoff, and free throw. All of these can be confusing. You can learn about them through practice, or by reading up on the rules. Once you’ve mastered them, you’ll be a pro.
If you’re interested in becoming a better basketball player, you may want to join a team. Or, you can start a team of your own.
