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Basketball is a high-scoring sport, with teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA) regularly exceeding 100 points per game. There are three primary ways to score points: field goals, three-point field goals, and free throws. Field goals refer to any basket scored during regular gameplay, inside the three-point line, and are worth two points. Three-point field goals, or 3-pointers, are shots taken from behind the three-point line and are worth three points. Free throws are unguarded shots taken after a foul and are worth one point. The number of points awarded for each shot varies depending on the shot type and distance from the basket.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Field goals | 2 or 3 points |
| Free throws | 1 point |
| Fouls | 2 free throws |
| Basket | 1 free throw |
| Foul limit | 7+ |
| Double bonus | 10+ fouls |
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What You'll Learn
Field goals
The efficiency of field goals is often measured using three main statistics: FGMs, FGA's, and percentage distribution. FGMs count the total number of shots made from any distance, while FGA's reflect the total number of attempts. Percentage distribution, meanwhile, indicates the success rates for each type of shot taken, whether from the floor or close range.
Some basketball players are renowned for their exceptional field goal percentages. For example, Wilt Chamberlain holds the top spots for the most field goals in a season, and Michael Jordan led the NBA in field goals made ten times. In the WNBA, Diana Taurasi holds the record for the most field goals in a season, with 298 out of 660 attempts in 2006.
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Three-point field goals
The three-pointer is a high-value shot that can significantly impact the outcome of a game. It is worth noting that the three-point line is usually only applicable to shots taken during regular play. If a player is fouled in the act of shooting from beyond the three-point line, they may be awarded free throws, which are typically worth one point each. However, if the player makes the three-pointer while being fouled, they may be given an "and-one" opportunity, resulting in a potential four-point play.
The strategy and tactics involved in three-point shooting are essential to understand. Offensively, teams may employ a strategy that prioritises taking a high volume of three-point shots, especially if they have skilled shooters on their roster. This can stretch the defence and create more scoring opportunities. On the other hand, defenders aim to prevent offensive players from getting open looks from beyond the arc, often through tight defensive schemes and aggressive close-outs on shooters.
The three-point shot has evolved significantly since its introduction to the game. Initially, it was used more sparingly, with teams relying more heavily on two-point shots and post-play. However, over time, the three-pointer has become an increasingly prominent feature of the game, with many teams and players specialising in this area. This shift has resulted in a more dynamic and fast-paced style of play, with a greater emphasis on perimeter skills and shooting ability.
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Free throws
There is no single correct way to shoot a free throw. Each player has their own unique rhythm and pre-shot routine. Some players, for example, bounce the ball a few times before shooting, while others look down at the floor before raising their eyes to the rim. However, there are some key components to a solid free throw. It is important to keep your shoulders and hands relaxed, with the power behind the shot coming from your legs. Keep your feet flat and your toes on the floor, bending your knees and then pushing off your heels to release the ball in a fluid motion. A good shot will have plenty of rotation on the ball, giving it a better chance of going in.
It is also important to practice shooting under pressure. Many games are decided by free throws, so it is important to be able to stay focused and confident when taking your shot.
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Fouls and free throws
There are four main types of fouls that result in free throws: personal, technical, team, and flagrant. Personal fouls involve blocking or striking a player on the opposing team while they are shooting. The number of free throws awarded depends on the player's proximity to the three-point line. If the player is within the three-point arc, they receive two free throws; if they are behind the arc, they get three. Additionally, if a player makes a basket at the time of the foul, they are awarded both the points for the field goal and an extra free throw.
Team fouls occur when a team exceeds its allotted number of fouls per game. In the NBA, players are allowed six personal fouls per game, while women's basketball allows seven per regulation half. NCAA college basketball and high school leagues typically permit five per game. Once a team surpasses this limit, they enter a bonus situation, where the opposing team receives a free throw for each additional foul.
Technical fouls are related to unsportsmanlike conduct, such as fighting or verbal abuse by players or coaches. These can be further classified into Class A and Class B in NCAA rules, with the former being more serious and resulting in two free throws, while the latter results in one.
Finally, unsportsmanlike or flagrant fouls are the most severe and can lead to ejection from the game. The opposing team is awarded two free throws, and possession of the ball is given to them after the free throws.
It is worth noting that in certain situations, such as when a team is in a bonus situation, the number of free throws awarded may vary, and the rules can differ slightly between different basketball organizations and leagues.
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Scoring calculations
Basketball scoring is calculated based on the various ways of scoring and the rules around earning points. The fundamental way to score in basketball is to put the ball through the hoop, i.e., to make a successful shot or basket. The points awarded for a shot depend on where the shot was attempted from and whether a foul was involved.
A field goal or basket made during regular play within the three-point line is worth two points. If a player makes a basket beyond the three-point line, it is worth three points. These are the two most common ways to score points in a basketball game.
Free throws, worth one point each, are awarded when a player is fouled by an opponent. If a player is fouled in the act of shooting, and the ball goes into the basket, the player is allowed an additional free throw, known as an "and one" or "1 and 1" situation. This means they can score three or four points in total, depending on whether the initial shot was attempted within or beyond the three-point line.
The number of fouls committed by each team is important, as it can lead to bonus free throws. For example, if a team commits seven or more fouls, the fouled player's team receives a bonus free throw, and if they make the shot, they score one point. If a team commits ten or more fouls, the fouled player's team is awarded two free throws for each subsequent foul, regardless of whether the first free throw is made or not.
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Frequently asked questions
Players can score 1, 2, 3 (or even 4 points) during a single possession.
Players score 1 point for made free throws. Free throws are shots that are awarded when a player is fouled in the act of shooting.
Players score 2 points for any basket made inside the 3-point line and 3 points for any basket made beyond the 3-point line. If a player is fouled in the act of shooting and the ball goes in the basket, the player is allowed an additional free throw, resulting in a 3 or 4-point play.
