Basketball is an Olympic sport that has become increasingly popular throughout the world. In fact, the NBA, which is one of the world’s biggest professional sports leagues, is credited with expanding the sport worldwide. It is also one of the most popular team games, second only to soccer.
There are many types of players and defenders in basketball. Offensive players use shooting skills, ball handling skills, and passing skills. The game is played on a rectangular court with two elevated baskets. When the offensive team is in possession of the ball, they score by throwing the ball through the opposing team’s basket.
In the early years of basketball, players used a soccer ball to play the game. To move the ball, players would bounce it on the floor with one hand as they ran. A player could only physically contact another player if they had permission from the other player.
As the game developed, rules were created. At the time, there were two sets of rules that were used. One set was for college basketball and the other was for amateur play. After World War II, the basketball rules were changed again.
Eventually, there were five on a side in college games. Amos Alonzo Stagg became the athletic director at the University of Chicago in 1892. He was the first person to create a basketball for indoor play. His students helped him spread the game to other parts of the country.
The first basketball was laced and measured close to 32 inches in circumference. It weighed less than 20 ounces.
The first basketball was invented by Jim Naismith in 1891. He was a Canadian. Before that, basketball was played in the United States and Australia. The original players included five Canadians.
Basketball was originally played in YMCA gyms. During World War I, a number of North American soldiers played basketball and spread the game to other countries. They also influenced the rules of the game.
A number of players became famous for their play. Bob Cousy, Lew Alcindor, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Michael Jordan are among the most famous players of all time.
During the 1980s, cable television began carrying college regular season games. During that period, the game became extremely popular as players gained exposure on television. High school championships were also carried by cable TV in certain states.
One of the most popular shots in basketball is the dunk shot. In this shot, a player throws the ball through the rim with their arms. The crowd watches as the shot becomes a reality. This shot electrified fans.
Other important shots are layups and free throws. A shot needs to be accurate and precise. Ideally, the shot needs to be thrown with an extension of the arm and lift from the legs.
Aside from the ball, the other things a player needs to have are self-confidence and motivation. He must be able to analyze situations quickly and make quick decisions. Also, he must be fit. Being a fit player is important because sudden stopping and starting can be very straining on the knees and ankles.
