Basketball is a sport played with a round ball on a court with two ten-foot high baskets on opposite sides. Traditional basketball games have five players on each team. As players move down the court, they must keep the ball bouncing, which is called "dribbling." Passing to teammates is encouraged, and is usually part of the team's strategy.

The main objective during the game is to shoot the ball through the basket, or hoop, which is a metal ring with a net. Doing so results in either two or three points depending on the distance from the basket. A penalty shot is given to a player after a foul and is worth one point per attempt.

Basketball has many variations and is played indoors and outdoors. Quickness, a good vertical jump, and a tall body can benefit the basketball player, who often has to shoot the ball out of the opponent's reach, or jump up for rebounds.  

ALASKA KID TIP: "Always look for the open man to pass to so that your team can make some baskets!" - Kevin C.

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