Whether you’re a newcomer to the court or just curious about how it all works, learn about the basics of basketball here!
It’s official: Australians love basketball. Last season, Aussies had the highest average NBA League Pass viewership and watch hours globally outside of the U.S. Many of us are eager to understand the game better. And while basketball can seem complex at first, with a bit of guidance, it can be straightforward and enjoyable.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down the essentials you need to know to understand and appreciate the game, from the basic rules and positions to key terminology and fundamental skills. So, lace up your sneakers, grab a ball, and let’s dive into the exciting world of basketball!
Team Formation
First, let’s talk about the teams. Basketball is played with two teams 12, with 5 players from each time on the court at a time.
Each player will be one of five roles, with unique rules for each. These include:
- Point Guard: Often the team leader; responsible for running the offense and distributing the ball.
- Shooting Guard: This is the primary scorer on the team and is often skilled at shooting from long distances.
- Small Forward: This is a versatile player who can score, defend, and rebound.
- Power Forward: This is a strong player who plays near the basket and is often responsible for rebounding and inside scoring.
- Center: Normally the tallest player, the centre will play around the centre of the court, moving the ball from one end to the other. They are key for defence, shot blocking, and rebounding.
Equipment Needed to Play Basketball
To get started playing, you’re going to need:
- A basketball
- A hoop (basket)
- A flat, rectangular court with markings
- Proper athletic wear (typically a jersey, shorts, and shoes designed for basketball)
Winning the Game
Like in many other sports, winning in basketball means scoring the most points. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. In the event of a tie, the game goes into overtime periods until one team wins.
Scoring in Basketball
The main objective of basketball is to score points by getting the ball through the opponent’s hoop. Here’s how points are scored:
- Field Goals: A basket made from anywhere on the court during regular play. It’s worth 2 points, or 3 points if taken from beyond the three-point line.
- Free Throws: Awarded after certain fouls are committed. Each successful free throw is worth 1 point.
- Three-Point Shots: A field goal made from beyond the three-point arc is worth 3 points.
Basketball court. Photography by Peter Berko via Unsplash
Basic Rules and Gameplay
At the beginning of a game, there will be a jump ball at the centre of the court. This is when the referee throws the ball up between two opposing players who try to tip it to a teammate.
There are a couple of basic rules that you need to be aware before you lace up on the court:
- Dribbling: Players must bounce (dribble) the ball while moving. If they stop dribbling, they must pass or shoot the ball; otherwise, it’s a violation called traveling.
- Passing: The act of throwing the ball to a teammate.
- Shooting: Throwing the ball in an attempt to score in the opponent’s hoop.
- Defence: Players work to prevent the opposing team from scoring.
Timing
A typical game is divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes (in professional leagues like the NBA). If the game is tied at the end of regulation time, it goes into overtime periods until a winner is determined.
One important note is that the players themselves also have to worry about time. In basketball, there is a time limit on holding the ball, known as the shot clock. This rule requires a team to attempt a shot within a certain amount of time after gaining possession of the ball. In professional competitions, for example, the shot clock is 24 second. If the team fails to attempt a shot within this time frame, they commit a shot clock violation, and possession of the ball is turned over to the opposing team.
Personal Fouls and Violations
Like with the shot clock, there are a handful of violations that players and viewers need to keep in mind.
- Personal Fouls: Include hitting, pushing, slapping, holding, or making illegal physical contact with an opponent.
- Technical Fouls: Non-contact violations such as unsportsmanlike conduct or arguing with a referee.
- Violations: Include traveling, double dribbling, carrying the ball, and goaltending (illegally interfering with a shot on its way to the basket).
Beyond the court, make the most of Australia’s winter destinations with our guide to The 5 Best Skiing Spots in Australia this Winter. And check out the Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Cricket for more sporting tips.
