Basketball is a team sport where each team is usually five players. They play on a rectangular court with one raised basket at each end. Points are scored by shooting the ball into the opponents basket. At the end of the game, the team with the most points wins.

A fast-paced team game, basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United States and the world. Teams seamlessly alternate between defending and scoring, to create a fluid, easy to learn and easy to play game. Though despite its simplicity, strategy and game-planning play a large part, as does an ample amount of physicality and athleticism.

Score more points than the opposing team, within the allotted amount of time.

Five players on each team advance the ball up the court by either passing or dribbling. A player cannot move with the ball without dribbling. Excessive contact is not allowed, and when made, results in a foul. Players are allowed to commit a limited number of fouls, but if that limit is exceeded the player is removed from the game.

Basketball was invented in 1891 by a gym teacher named James Naismith who was looking for a way for students to stay active during the winter months. The first games were slow-paced, low scoring affairs where players shot on goals made from peach baskets. Rules and equipment evolved as the sport grew in popularity. By the 1940's and 1950's basketball had become a major college sport, which paved the way for development of professional leagues. Today basketball is played in many countries around the world, and is considered one of the world's most recognizable sports.

Basketball
Goal/Hoop/Basket

As is the case with any physical game, injuries are unpredictable. These can range from the minor (cuts and bruises) to the major (torn ligaments and broken bones).

Various aerobic exercises can be performed to improve endurance and agility, while weight training can build strong arms, shoulders and legs. Players also practice shooting at the goal to develop rhythm and muscle memory.

Dribble - to take the ball forward past opponents by continuous bouncing

Foul - an unfair or invalid piece of play involving interference with an opponent

Goal/Hoop/Basket - a basket which players shoot at, with the intention of scoring points

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basketball