Scoring
A free throw is worth 1 point. A legal field goal inside or on the three-point line is worth 2; a legal field goal beyond it is worth 3.
Know the game
Rules make the action readable
Master the universal ideas first, then check the exact rule set for your league, age group, or tournament.
Traveling
Moving a pivot foot or taking steps beyond what the governing rules allow without a legal dribble is a violation.
Double dribble
A player cannot end a dribble and start another unless control was lost through a shot, pass, opponent touch, or another rule-defined event.
Out of bounds
The ball is out when it touches a boundary line, a person on or outside it, or an object defined as out by the rule set.
Personal foul
Illegal contact can lead to a throw-in, free throws, team-foul penalties, or disqualification depending on the situation and league.
Shot clock
Competitive leagues limit possession length, but the exact clock and reset rules vary. Recreational games may not use one.
Five traditional positions
Roles are starting points, not limits
Modern players often share responsibilities, but these labels still help beginners understand spacing and matchups.
Point guard
Organizes the offense, handles pressure, and creates passes.
Shooting guard
Spaces the floor, scores, and attacks closeouts.
Small forward
Connects perimeter and interior play with versatile scoring and defense.
Power forward
Screens, rebounds, defends size, and increasingly handles or shoots.
Center
Protects the paint, rebounds, screens, and finishes near the rim.
Numbers that commonly vary
Quarter or half length depends on level and competition.
Possession and reset timing differ across rule sets.
Disqualification and team-bonus thresholds vary.
Three-point distance, lane dimensions, and restricted areas vary.
Number, length, and advancement rules differ.