Basketball is a popular team sport played by 12-15 members, with only 5 players allowed to play at a time. This game can be played indoors or outdoors and was first played in 1891 in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Objective
The primary objective of basketball is to outrun the opposing team’s score by shooting the ball through their basket while preventing them from scoring or getting hold of the ball.
Regulations
International basketball games have specific rules and regulations that need to be followed to ensure an exciting and organized game.
Time
An international basketball game lasts about 2 hours, with 4 quarters of playing time of 10 minutes each. There is a 15-minute half-time break and two quick breaks of 2 minutes each. Time is stopped when the game is inactive or when problems arise during play. Time-outs are typically not longer than a minute.
Team
Each basketball team comprises 12 players, with only 5 allowed to play inside the court each time. The team has a coach who gives out strategies and developments, along with assistant coaches, statisticians, managers, trainers, and a doctor in case of emergencies.
Attire
Both men and women’s standard uniform consists of comfortable shorts and a jersey with the player’s number printed at the front and back. High-top sneakers are worn for ankle support, and the team’s name, sponsors, and player’s name are printed on the uniform.
Game Officials
Game officials include referees, two umpires, and table officials responsible for recording scoring, substitutions, timekeeping, team and individual fouls, and the shot clock.
Equipment
The basketball court looks rectangular and flat with two baskets at opposite sides. Along with the ball, score sheets, possession arrows, clocks, scoreboards, and clock systems operated by the table officials are necessary for a basketball game.
