D) who passes the ball E) that rules are followed and play is fair F) that’s why different skills are required for each position G) that scores the most points Basketball is one of the world’s most popular sports. It’s played in more than 200 countries, in
playgrounds, school gyms, and sports arenas. The equipment is quite simple: 1
____________ .
Basketball is played by two teams of five players. Players score points by throwing a ball through a
hoop 10 feet above the ground. The team
2 ____________ wins. Players move the basketball by
dribbling it or by passing it to another player. Shooting the ball through the basket usually scores
two points. The basket scores three points
3 ____________ . This line is called a three-point line. A
player gets to shoot one or more free throws after a foul by an opposing player. A successful free
throw scores one point.
A team plays a basketball game with five players on the court. These players have different roles,
or positions. The standard positions are two guards, two forwards, and one centre,
4 ____________ .
The centre is usually a team’s tallest player. The centre usually plays near the basket and shoots
from there. When the other team has the ball, the centre tries to block shots and rebound the ball
5 ____________ . There are two kinds of guards. The point guard is usually the team’s best ball handler and passer.
The shooting guard is often the highest scorer on the team. Guards shoot from near the basket and
from the three-point line.
There are also two kinds of forwards. A small forward is quick and nimble in getting to the basket.
A power forward is strong and grabs rebounds — unsuccessful shots that bounce back. But any
player may play anywhere on the court. One or more referees keep order. They make sure
