Basketball is a thrilling, fast-paced sport that’s easy to pick up but challenging to master. If you’re new to the game, here’s a guide to get you started with the fundamental rules and key positions in basketball game.
Basic Rules of Basketball
Objective
The goal is to score points by shooting the basketball into the opposing team’s hoop while preventing them from scoring in yours.
Scoring
Points are scored by making baskets in the opposing team’s hoop—2 points for a standard shot, 3 points for a shot beyond the three-point line, and 1 point for free throws.
Gameplay
A game starts with a jump ball. Teams move the ball by dribbling or passing. The offensive team has 24 seconds to attempt a shot. Possession alternates when a team fails to shoot, commits a foul, or when the ball goes out of bounds.
Ball Movement
The ball must be dribbled when moving, and passing is crucial for teamwork.
Fouls
- Hitting, Pushing, Slapping, Holding: Any illegal physical contact with an opponent.
- Charging: An offensive foul where a player runs over a defensive player.
- Blocking: Illegal contact by a defender who fails to establish position.
- Flagrant Foul: Violent contact (hitting, kicking) resulting in free throws for the opposing team.
- Intentional Foul: Contact made with no effort to play the ball; a judgment call by officials.
- Technical Foul: Non-contact fouls, including unsportsmanlike conduct or improper game conduct.
Violations
- Traveling: Taking more than one and a half steps without dribbling.
- Carrying: Dribbling with the hand too far under the ball.
- Double Dribble: Dribbling with both hands or dribbling again after stopping.
- Held Ball: When two players gain possession; the referee stops play and awards the ball to one team.
- Goaltending: Interfering with a shot in the cylinder or while it’s on the way down.
- Backcourt Violation: Returning to the backcourt after crossing mid-court.
- Time Restrictions: Various time limits on inbounds passes and closely guarded plays.
Key Positions
Center
Typically the tallest player, positioned near the basket.
- Offensive Role: Gets open for passes, shoots, and screens defenders to help teammates. Responsible for offensive rebounds and put-backs.
- Defensive Role: Blocks shots and passes, and secures rebounds in the key area.
Forward
Usually the next tallest players, positioned both near the basket and on the wings.
- Offensive Role: Gets free for passes, takes outside shots, drives for goals, and rebounds.
- Defensive Role: Prevents drives to the basket and secures rebounds.
Guard
Generally the shortest players, skilled in dribbling and passing.
- Offensive Role: Dribbles, passes, sets up plays, drives to the basket, and shoots from long range.
- Defensive Role: Steals passes, contests shots, prevents drives to the hoop, and boxes out.
With the right foundation and dedication, anyone can master basketball basics. At Scholar Basketball Academy, our coaches ensure you build essential skills and understand the game from every angle. Explore SBA’s programs and sign up today to start your journey toward becoming a great basketball player!