Playgrounds and gymnasiums beckon players of all ages with the squeaking of shoes and the cheers of victory. Since its inception, basketball has become a great form of exercise, forum for competition, and even a career goal for players of all ages. Youth, or little league, basketball provides a structured environment for young players to develop their skills and build a lifelong love for the sport of basketball. While little league rules are similar to those at higher levels, more intricate regulations will develop as players advance in the sport.
Equipment
A youth basketball court is a flat rectangular surface. The measurements of the court will vary based on the age of the players (youth, high school/college or professional). The court should be painted with a free throw line, three point circle and midcourt line, all in proportion to the size of the court. Ball sizes also vary based on the age of the players. Hoop size and height are standard, with a diameter of 18 inches elevated at 10 feet above the court and attached to a backboard. Uniforms consist merely of shorts, jerseys or T-shirts, and basketball shoes.
Players
Two teams of five players each compete on the court at any given time. Most youth leagues will have strict divisions based on age to form teams and participate in tournaments. As young players develop fundamental basketball skills they will fall into one of three positions: center, forward, or guard. Each position comes with different offensive and defensive responsibilities.
Game Play
Basketball games consist of two halves, which are divided into four quarters in many youth and high school leagues, but are played simply as two 20 minute halves at the college level. The length of quarters will vary based on age, usually six to eight minutes. Players on the court are attempting to get the ball into the basket, while preventing the opposing team from doing so. The ball can be advanced down the court by dribbling or passing. The ball changes possession once a team scores, puts the ball out of bounds, has the ball stolen or makes an errant pass. In the event of a tied score at the end of regulation time, overtime is played, usually with a duration of three or four minutes.
Violations and Fouls
Play and the clock stop with all fouls and violations. Referees will determine if a foul or violation has occurred. Violations can be related to ball handling, such as traveling, or time, such as remaining too long in the lane or area underneath the basket below the free throw line. Violations result in the opposing team gaining possession of the ball. Fouls involve illegally coming into contact with another player. If a foul occurs against a shooter, free throws are awarded. If a foul is committed away from the ball, possession changes or free throws may be awarded depending on the number of fouls the offending team has already committed.
Scoring
Players score two points for a basket within the three point circle, and three points for a basket outside of it. A free throw is worth one point. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
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