Basketball is a fast-paced and exciting sport, and a key element of the game is possession. Possession in basketball means that a team has control of the ball, and it is up to them to decide when and how to move the ball up and down the court, as well as when to shoot. In order to truly understand how possession works in basketball, it is important to look at the various ways a team can gain and maintain possession in the game.
How to Gain Possession
There are several ways that a team can gain possession of the ball in basketball. The first way is through a jump ball, which is a method of starting or restarting the game, and can also be used to reward possession to one team or the other after a foul or violation. A jump ball is when two players from opposing teams stand opposite each other at the center of the court, and an official tosses the ball up in the air between them. The players then attempt to tip the ball to a teammate, and each team will keep possession of the ball until the opposing team steals it or a violation is committed.
Another way for a team to gain possession of the ball is through a throw-in, which is when a player from one team throws the ball from out of bounds into the court. Throw-ins are used when the ball has gone out of bounds, and the team with the throw-in is rewarded possession of the ball. The player who is performing the throw-in must throw the ball from the spot where it went out of bounds, and must do so within five seconds. A violation will be called if the player does not throw the ball in correctly.
The last way a team can gain possession of the ball is through a rebound. This occurs when a player shoots the ball and it does not go in the basket. The team that is closest to the ball when it comes off the rim is rewarded possession. This is an important part of basketball, as it allows the team that did not shoot the ball to gain possession and take a shot of their own.
Maintaining Possession
Once a team has gained possession of the ball, it is up to them to keep it. There are several ways a team can maintain possession in basketball. The most important way is by ensuring that the ball handler does not turn the ball over. This means that the player must keep their dribble under control, and should not try to make risky passes or dribble moves. If the ball handler is in danger of losing the ball, they should pass it to a teammate.
Another way a team can maintain possession is by ensuring that they do not commit any violations. This includes traveling, double dribble, and carrying the ball. If a violation is committed, the other team will be rewarded possession of the ball. It is also important to make sure that the team moves the ball up and down the court quickly, in order to prevent the defense from setting up and taking away the ball.
Conclusion
Possession is an important part of basketball, and it is essential for teams to understand how to gain and maintain possession in order to be successful. Possession can be gained through a jump ball, throw-in, or rebound, and teams should make sure to keep the ball handler in control, pass the ball quickly, and avoid committing any violations in order to maintain possession. By understanding how possession works in basketball, teams will be able to gain an advantage and increase their chances for success.