Basketball Diameter of the Hoop
The basketball diameter of the hoop is 18 inches in diameter and 10 feet high. The hoop is connected to a backboard. Teams score points by putting the ball through the hoop. If they shoot nearer the three point line, it counts for two points. From the three point line it counts for three points. The hoop can be of any color, but most of the time the net is white.
The Basketball Court
This is the area where the game takes place. The floor is rectangular in shape. Tiles are set at the end of the floor. Different materials are used. In the NBA and other professional leagues, the surface is made from wood such as maple. Courts used in pro basketball are well polished. In outdoor basketball, the surface is usually asphalt or concrete.
The basketball diameter of the hoop has been standardized. However, court dimensions differ. In FIBA, courts measure 28 m by 15 m (91’10.4″ by 49’2.6″). In the NBA, courts have dimensions of 94 feet by 50 ft (28.65m by 15.24m). Courts in high school and college games are smaller.
Basic Rules
Players advance the ball by dribbling or passing it to a teammate. Players are not allowed to walk while carrying the ball. Once they have picked up their dribble, they cannot dribble again unless they pass the ball first and get it again. Fouls refer to the numerous infractions that are called during a game.
A personal foul refers to disruptive physical contact. Free throws are given if the contact is made while a player is trying to shoot the ball. Technical fouls are given to a player or coach usually for unsportsmanlike behavior. A technical foul awards the opposing team a free throw and ball possession.
Positions and Strategies
Basketball is a game of strategy. Different techniques are used for dribbling, shooting and passing. Coaches have developed several plays to facilitate scoring. There are also defensive plays designed to prevent opponents from scoring.
Usually, the tallest players play the center position, small forward or power forward. Smaller players and those adept at dribbling play shooting guard or point guard. However, many players can now play multiple positions.
The basketball diameter of the hoop is rarely changed for the men’s game. However, numerous variations of the game have emerged. In street and home basketball, one on one, two on two and so on are common. Rules are also more lax.
