Basketball is a team sport in which two teams, typically consisting of five players each, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team’s hoop or basket. The game is played on a rectangular court with a hoop at each end. Points are scored by making field goals, which are shots made from various distances, and free throws, which are awarded after certain fouls.

The objective of basketball is to outscore the opponent by accumulating more points throughout the game, which is typically divided into quarters or halves. Key elements of the game include dribbling (bouncing the ball while moving), passing, shooting, and defensive skills.

Basketball is known for its fast pace and dynamic play, incorporating strategies such as offensive and defensive formations. The sport is played at various levels, from amateur leagues to professional organizations, with substantial global popularity. It originated in the late 19th century and has since evolved into a major international sport, governed by organizations such as FIBA (Fédération Internationale de Basketball) and the NBA (National Basketball Association) in the United States.