Technical Details
The court
An Olympic basketball court is a hard, flat rectangular wooden surface measuring 15 metres wide and 28m long with elevated baskets at either end. On the floor are several key markings. The three-point line is a semi-circle of radius 6.25m around the basket. The other crucial mark is the penalty line, which is 5.8m straight from the basket at the top of a triangular zone, known as ‘the key’.
The baskets
The baskets are elevated 3.05m high over the court, 1.2m in from the end of the court. The hoop of the basket is 45 centimetres in diameter, below which there is a net to contain the ball after points are scored. The hoop is mounted on a backboard that measures 1.8m wide and 1.05m high.
Players
Although a basketball match looks chaotic, players occupy key strategic positions.
The centre is the most forward player, and is there to defend the basket or pick up rebounds when an attacking player misses a shot. The forward and power forward are the main points scorers, while the playmaker is a smaller, quicker player who helps build an attack. The guard is the main defensive position and helps the team build up counter-attacks or takes long shots if required.
Current Olympic Programme
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Men
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Women
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Team Competition
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Team Competition
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