a beginner’s guide to rules and regulations of basketball

Basketball is a brilliant, fast-paced sport . Whether you’re just starting out or organising games with mates, knowing the basic rules makes play fair, fun and safe. Here’s a straightforward guide to the key rules you need to know to get started on the court.

Basically, your go-to basketball rulebook!

Basketball is played by two teams, each aiming to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent’s hoop. So, how many players are in a basketball team? A standard game has five players per team on the court at once.

The basics of basketball rules are simply for the players to move the ball by dribbling or passing. And of course getting it in the net to score.

what do I need to play basketball?

the court

• A rectangular, flat surface with marked boundaries.
• Each end has a raised hoop with a net, called a basket.

the ball

• Round and inflated to a fixed pressure.
• In adult play, a size 7 ball is standard; youth games often use smaller sizes.

how long is a basketball match?

A typical match is played in four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes. There's a short break at half-time and short pauses between each quarter.

how do I get started playing basketball?

The game begins with a jump ball at centre court:

The referee tosses the ball into the air and one player from each team tries to tap it to a team-mate.

how to move around the court

dribbling

• You must bounce the ball while moving.
• If you stop dribbling, you cannot start again without passing or shooting.

travelling

• Holding the ball and taking more than a couple of steps without dribbling is not allowed.

how to pass and shoot in basketball

passing

• You can pass in any direction to a team-mate.
• Accurate passing helps move the ball quickly and keeps opponents guessing.

shooting

• Points are scored when the ball goes through the opponent’s basket.
• 2 points for most baskets.
• 3 points for shots taken from beyond the three-point line.
• 1 point for a successful free throw.

what are the fouls in basketball?

fouls

• A foul occurs when a player makes unfair physical contact.
• Common examples include holding, pushing or striking another player.

consequences

• After a certain number of team fouls, the fouled player takes free throws.
• A free throw is an unopposed shot from a marked line.

what violations are involved in basketball?

A few other common infractions include:

• double dribble - starting and stopping dribble, twice.
• back-court violation - taking the ball back into your own half after crossing the mid-court line.
• shot clock breach - failing to attempt a shot within the allotted time (where a shot clock is used).

what are referees used for?

Referees are there to keep play fair. They:

• Blow a whistle to stop play for rules breaches.
• Award possession, free throws or restart play as appropriate.

book a court with us

Looking for a basketball court in Cheshire West & Chester? Brio’s indoor courts are ideal for everything from casual shootarounds to team training sessions. With plenty of space and a professional-grade surface, our facilities are designed to support players of all abilities.

Available at: 

• Brio Ellesmere Port
• Brio Northgate

Whether you're practising your jump shot, hosting a friendly game, or running a club session, our indoor basketball courts provide the right environment to stay active and develop your skills.

Courts are available to hire for individuals, groups, or clubs. Book your basketball court today at one of our Brio centres and enjoy top-quality indoor facilities close to home.

book here

 

References - https://basketballengland.co.uk/get-involved/play/getting-started