Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. Invented by Dr. James A. Naismith in Springfield, Massachusetts, to give his students something to do in winter, the game is played by some of the greatest athletes and provides thrilling moments to competitors and fans.

Basketball is a fast-paced game that requires the knowledge and instinct to perform quickly and properly. The sport of basketball requires five basic skills. While some players might be more experienced with some skills than others, it is best to have at least some ability in all five areas.

The rules of basketball intend for the game to be contested with five players to a team, utilizing five athletes at five different positions, each with their own unique set of strengths and skills.

Passing the ball in basketball requires touch, vision, dexterity and strength. Good teams have players who look to pass the ball to the open player to take the ball to the basket or get a good look for a jump shot. You can pass the ball effectively in several ways.

Basketball requires an excessive amount of running and jumping. The constant movement and lower-body trauma can lead to a number of injuries, from twisted ankles to shin splints and sprained knees.

As a basketball player, you have likely dreamed of throwing down a monster dunk. Sports highlights are filled with spectacular dunks by high-flying basketball players who make it look easy. While genetics sometimes plays a part, dunking a basketball requires great physical strength and mental training.

The difference between boys' and girls' basketball increases at the high school level because of the widening physical differences between the genders. The structure of the game is similar for boys and girls, but the pace and athleticism varies.

Basketball requires speed, strength, quickness and overall athleticism. Conditioning drills for basketball can help you get in shape to play the game competitively. However, your coaches may push you very hard to get in the best shape possible because they want you to have stamina in the late stages of the game.

Many people think of basketball as a noncontact sport. However, anyone who has ever fought for a rebound under the backboard knows that is not the case. When it comes to player safety, there are several precautions that players and teams must take to ensure the health of the individuals participating in the game.

Whether you just don't have the cash for a store-bought fiberglass backboard or you simply like to make your own stuff, a homemade basketball backboard may be a good option for you.

Backcourt violations are among the most misunderstood in basketball. Many players know that they must advance the ball from the backcourt to the frontcourt in a specific period of time, but few know what specifically constitutes a backcourt violation.

Good basketball players are quick on their feet. They must be able to change directions quickly and run and jump throughout the game. Basketball shoes help the player by providing support and protection to the foot and ankle.