Basquetebol

Basquetebol, commonly known as basketball, is a team sport played by two teams of five players on a rectangular court. The objective of the game is to shoot a ball through a hoop 18 inches (46 cm) in diameter and 10 feet (3.0 m) above the floor. The team that scores more points by the end of the game is the winner.

Points are scored by putting the ball through the hoop. A successful shot from the court inside the three-point line is worth two points. A shot made from beyond the three-point line is worth three points. A free throw, awarded after certain fouls, is worth one point.

Players move the ball by dribbling (bouncing the ball on the floor) or passing it to a teammate. Physical contact is limited, and fouls are called for illegal contact or rule violations. Common fouls include pushing, holding, and blocking.

The game is played in halves or quarters, with a halftime break. There are specific rules regarding time limits for possessing the ball and shooting. The game is officiated by referees who enforce the rules.

Basketball originated in the United States in December 1891, invented by James Naismith, a Canadian-American physical education instructor. It has since grown into one of the most popular sports globally, with professional leagues like the National Basketball Association (NBA) in North America and numerous international competitions. It is also a prominent sport in the Olympic Games.