Learn basketball basic rules

There are basic basketball rules that govern each participant in a basketball game.  All players and coaches are all responsible for following the rules correctly.  Depending on where you are, the rules may vary slightly, but the general principles are consistent at all levels.  This article is a quick introduction to how basketball is played.

The rules allow for two separate teams to compete in head-to-head competition.  Basic basketball rules state that the game is timed and the team with the most points at the end wins.  Each team is allowed to have five players on the court at a time.  If a new player enters the game, one of the current players must exit the game.  

The basic basketball rules are different when it comes to time of game and court length.  A high school full length basketball court is 84 feet long.  The basketball courts in the NCAA and NBA are both 94 feet long.  College games are two 20 minute halves.  NBA games are four 12 minute periods.

Teams may advance by passing (throwing) or dribbling (bouncing) the ball down the court. Basic basketball rules do not allow players to run with the ball or kick the ball.  Once at their basket, a team can score by shooting the ball into the goal.  Teams must shoot the ball within a certain time limit.  The NBA, international, and collegiate leagues have a 24 second, 30 second, and 45 second shot clock respectively.

The basic basketball rules are universal when it comes to scoring.  One point is awarded when a player gets a free chance (free throw) to shoot the ball into the basket.  Two points are given when a player shoots the ball into the basket during regular play.  Three points are given when a player shoots the ball into the basket from the assigned three point arc during regular play.  

To begin the game, the referee stands in the center circle and throws the ball into the air.  At that time, two opposing players jump up and try to tap it to one of their teammates.  Basic basketball rules assess a foul to any player making illegal body contact with an opposing player.  When a foul occurs, the fouled team may be given possession of the ball or the fouled player may be awarded free throws.  Players who exceed the foul limit (normally five, but the NBA allows six) are disqualified from the game.

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world.  Today almost every high school in the United States prepares a basketball team for varsity competition. Competitive basketball is carefully regulated, so you must understand the basic basketball rules if you are going to play.  This article provides a quick introduction to help you understand the basic basketball concepts.