
Basketball is a sport with a simple scoring system, but one that offers a lot of nuances. The main stats are points, rebounds, assists, steals, and turnovers. The points are calculated based on the shooting location and distance from the hoop. The most common form of scoring is the two-pointer, but players can also score one, three, or four points.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of points | 1, 2, 3 or 4 |
| One-point play | Free throw (15 feet from the basket) |
| Two-point play | Layup, Dunk, Alley-oop, Shot inside the three-point line |
| Three-point play | Shot outside the three-point line |
| Four-point play | Three-point shot and a foul |
| Plus/Minus points | +/- points = Team points – Opponent points |
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What You'll Learn

Free throws
If a player is fouled as they sink a basket during gameplay, they will receive one bonus "and one" free throw. If they miss the shot, they will receive two or three free throws, depending on the location that the potential scorer launched the shot. In the NBA, if a player draws a foul while shooting a three-pointer, it will result in an extra shot from the free-throw line. This is a popular strategy used by players near the three-point line, even if they are not ready to shoot. If they miss the shot, they still have the opportunity to score from the free throw.
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Field goals
A field goal in basketball is scored when a player makes a basket during the play, except for the free throw. In short, a field goal is worth either one, two, or three points, depending on its distance from the basket. The term "field" or "the basketball field" refers to the court, hence the name field goal.
The most common way players measure their field goal efficiency is by looking at three different measurements: FGMs count how many shots they make from any distance, while FGA's total number of attempts and percentage distribution reflect success rates for every type of shot taken off the floor or close range within these parameters. The stats on a sheet are represented as 'FG' and there are three main statistics players keep track of when measuring field goal efficiency.
Some of the greatest field-goal shooters of all time include Michael Jordan, who led the NBA in field goals made ten times, Wilt Chamberlain, who holds the top four spots for most field goals made in a season, and Diana Taurasi, who has the Guinness World Record for most field goals attempted and achieved in a WNBA season.
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And-ones
An "and-one" is a technical play in basketball that occurs when a player makes a shot while being fouled by an opposing player. This play is difficult to pull off and requires a high level of skill and concentration. The player must be able to handle the shot properly and have the strength and accuracy to make the basket while being fouled. The term "and-one" refers to the fact that the player gets one additional foul shot, resulting in a potential three-point or four-point play. This play can be a game-changer as it switches the momentum from the defending team to the offense, often bringing the crowd to their feet.
The "and-one" play is a testament to a player's strength, tenacity, and poise under pressure. It showcases their ability to maintain focus and execute the shot despite the physical challenge presented by the opposing player. This play is not only challenging to perform but also emotionally charged, as players may shout "and-one" to chastise the referee for missing a foul call or to express their determination and excitement.
The "and-one" play is a unique aspect of basketball that adds excitement to the game for both players and spectators. It is a test of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude, making it a memorable and impactful moment in any basketball match. The ability to successfully execute an "and-one" play can be a defining factor in a team's strategy and performance.
While the "and-one" play is universally understood in basketball, there may be slight variations in how it is called or interpreted across different courts and leagues. Some players may prefer to call out ""foul" instead of "and-one," but both terms convey the same message and result in a stoppage of play. The lack of an official rule book for pick-up games can lead to some inconsistencies in how "and-one" situations are handled, but the fundamental concept remains consistent.
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Three-point line
The three-point line is a fundamental part of basketball, adding excitement and strategy to the game. As the name suggests, it is a line on a basketball court that forms an arc at a set distance from the basket, typically 22 feet (6.71 metres), although this can vary. If a player shoots the ball from beyond this line and scores, they are awarded three points instead of the usual two points for a regular shot or one point for a free throw.
The three-point line was first introduced by the American Basketball League (ABL) in 1961, with a distance of 25 feet (7.62 metres) from the basket. However, the other ABL owners later voted to shorten the line to 22 feet. The three-point shot gained popularity when it was adopted by the American Basketball Association (ABA) in its inaugural 1967-68 season, as it gave smaller players a better chance to score and opened up the defence, making the game more enjoyable for fans.
Over time, the three-point line has evolved and been adopted by various basketball leagues and organisations, including the NBA, WNBA, FIBA, and collegiate conferences. The distance of the line can vary slightly between different leagues and courts, but it typically ranges from 17 feet 9 inches (5.41 metres) to 23 feet 9 inches (7.24 metres).
The three-point line plays a crucial role in game strategy and player positioning. Players must be aware of their distance from the basket when shooting from beyond the arc, as it can be challenging to make a successful shot from that range. Additionally, the three-point line encourages players to develop their sharpshooting skills and attempt high-value shots to increase their score.
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Two-pointers
There are several ways to score a two-pointer, including the layup and the dunk. A layup is achieved when a player dribbles the ball inside the paint and gently places the ball in the basket. A dunk, on the other hand, is similar to a layup but is more aggressive. It occurs when a player throws the ball into the hoop and hangs onto the rim. The alley-oop is a popular form of dunking.
The value of a two-pointer in basketball is two points, as the name suggests. This is in contrast to the one-pointer, which is achieved by making a free throw, and the three-pointer, which is achieved by making a basket from outside the three-point line.
The two-pointer is an important part of the game of basketball, as it is the most common form of scoring. Players can employ a variety of strategies to score two-pointers, including layups and dunks. Understanding the mechanics of the two-pointer is crucial for players looking to improve their scoring abilities in basketball.
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