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Basketball Term Paper:

Basketball is the sport game played with the help of a ball and baskets. Basketball is played by two teams which consist on five players. The aim of the game is to score as much goals with shooting the ball into a basket as possible and to prevent the opposite or the rival team from shooting the ball into the basket of the first team. The team which scores more goals wins. The basket is placed 10 feet high above the ground. Every shot values with 2 scores, but there is a possibility to earn 3 scores if the player manages to shoot from the three-point-line. The game is considered to be one of the most popular games in the world and is classified as the Olympic kind of sports from 1936. There are many various competitions held in Europe but the game is the most developed in the USA and is generally believed to be the favorite sports there.

Basketball is a team game which develops human body and soul. The players have to move all the time and to be very attentive to grab the ball from the opposite team and to score a goal at a moment’s notice. Every basketball player possesses well-trained dexterity and endurance.

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Moreover, people develop their strength due to the constant shots of the heavy ball. Basketball is characterized with constant jumping which influences the height of a human, so the parents who want their kid to be tall suggest him to play basketball. Basketball also develops the team spirit, because every victory is not the victory of an individual, but of the whole team.

Basketball is one of the most popular kinds of sports and everyone should know about the rules and origin of the game. When a student chooses to write a term paper about basketball, he is supposed to do much work and read much to collect data for the research. One should investigate the topic attentively and find out about the history of its creation and development. A student should mention the most talented and well-known basketball players and explain their success. Finally, it is interesting to analyze the positive and the negative sides of the game and its impact of the human health and the society.

In order to cope with the term paper a student will have to take advantage of a well-organized free example term paper on basketball in the Internet. A student who possesses poor writing experience and does not know the rules of term paper writing can increase his knowledge only with the help of the high-quality example. A free sample term paper on basketball written by the expert is often the best way out to find out about formatting, analysis and correct composition of the paper.

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Basketball Essay for Students and Children

500+ essay on basketball.

The game of basketball has truly become global in the last few years. The game is currently popular in the United States. Also, it is described by many as an American game because of the fun and competitive element in it. Also, this is one of the games which is played indoors and still caters to billions of fans around the world. This game was Dr. James Naismith from Canada. Initially, he invented the game by using a rectangular pitch which was 6 feet wide and 4 feet high. Additionally, the court includes a free throw line which is 12 feet long. In basketball essay, students will get to know about the different components that make the game of basketball special.

It is a team game that has gained immense popularity. Also, the game is played with the help of a ball and the ball is shot into the basket that is positioned horizontally. So, the objective in the game is to shoot the ball and score the maximum points. This game is played by 2 teams that constitute a total of 5 players each. Also, the game is played on a marked rectangular floor that has a basket on both the ends.

Originally, basketball was played using a soccer ball. Also, it was James Naismith that used a peach basket which ha ad a nonhollow bottom. So, this basket was nailed at a height of 10 ft. above the ground and on an elevated track. If you consider the manual removal of the ball from the basket a drawback then the bottom was removed to and it took the shape of modern-day baskets. Also, dribbling was not part of the game initially. Eventually, it evolved till 1950 by which the balls got better shape due to manufacturing.

Additionally, the orange ball was evolved from the brown ball. The brown ball was used in the beginning as it was thought that the ball is more visible. By 1996, the peach baskets used were replaced by metal hoops on the backboard.

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Basketball Game

At the start of the game, a referee tosses the ball at the center of the court between two players. One player from either team try to get their hands on the ball and the ball is passed on to the teammates. For scoring a point, a team needs to shoot the ball through the basket. If a shot is scored from a distance that is closer to the basket than the 3 point line than it fetches 2 points. Also, if the ball is shot from the distance behind 3 point line, it fetches 3 points. So, the team that has a maximum number of points is declared the winner.

In case of a draw, there may be additional time allotted to both the teams. In the game, a player is cannot move if he is holding the ball. The player needs to dribble, otherwise, it is considered as a foul. Likewise, when there is a physical contact that affects the other team then it counted as a physical foul.

Basketball is game played with a maintained and carefully marked court. It is a team sport that is commonly found in many different areas.

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J Hum Kinet
v.77; 2021 Jan

Physiology of Basketball – Field Tests. Review Article

Roni gottlieb.

1 The Academic College at Wingate, Wingate Institute, Netanya, Israel

Asaf Shalom

2 The Matte Asher Basketball Club, Matte Asher, Israel

Julio Calleja-Gonzalez

3 Physical Education and Sport Department, Faculty of Education and Sport University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain

The game of basketball is characterized by short and intense bouts of activity at medium to high frequency. Basketball entails specific types of movements, physiological requirements and energy sources. The duration of physiological responses involving ATP, CP and glycolysis responses to this type of activity is 5-6 seconds for a single sprint, and a contribution of the aerobic system is of less than 10%. Recovery periods in basketball, as a rule, are not long enough to fill the gap for such high intensity activities. It is hard to achieve the same level of performance consistently over time in repeated sprints. This means that basketball players need great athletic ability in order to demonstrate speed, strength and power required to produce a successful performance most proficiently. Therefore, tests are needed to help coaches to monitor their players and ensure that they have the physiological capacity required for the game. The aim of fitness tests is to assess the condition of athletes in terms of each fitness component, in order to determine what needs to be improved through the training program and to conduct retests at set times to assess whether their condition has changed. The literature offers a number of widely used tests to measure aerobic and anaerobic fitness. This article reviews the physiological demands of basketball and analyzes the field tests commonly used at present. The article emphasizes the need for a specific test that will serve coaches and physical fitness trainers in monitoring their players.

Introduction

The game of basketball is characterized by short and intense bouts of activity at medium to high frequency ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ). Such activity requires aerobic and anaerobic capabilities, both of which impact anaerobic performance ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). The ability to continuously perform intermittent high-intensity actions throughout the game is crucial for basketball players ( Ben Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ). Thus, higher aerobic capacity has been found to be essential for basketball players’ performance in games and in practice (Castagna et al., 2008), in order to recover faster.

Basketball includes high-intensity movements lasting less than 6 s and moderate-intensity exercise of up to 60 s ( Stolen et al., 2005 ). The duration of physiological responses involving ATP, CP and glycolysis responses to this type of activity is 5-6 s for a single sprint, and a contribution of the aerobic system is of less than 10%. During recovery from intense activity, when CP must be replenished, blood lactate concentration is used as a source of energy and phosphates accumulated in the cells are removed ( Wragg et al., 2000 ). For example, in basketball short recovery periods do not last long enough to fill the gap for such high-intensity activities. The ability of basketball players to continue to play well over time depends on rebuilding CP storage and removing waste products – both of which are functions of the aerobic system ( Glaister, 2005 ). Basketball is one of the fastest team sports, and is characterized by exceptional movements such as sprints, changes of direction, dunks, rebounds and blocked shots ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). This means that basketball players need great athletic ability in order to most proficiently demonstrate speed, strength and power required to produce a successful basketball performance ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ).

The game of basketball has undergone radical changes in the past decade. Coaches believe that the rule changes in May 2000 ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ) that shortened offensive attack time from 30 to 24 s and the time allowed to cross the median line from 10 to 8 s, as well as subdividing play time into four 10-min quarters instead of two 20-min halves, modified the tactical and physical demands of the game. Basketball players have been found to cover about 4500–5000 m during a 48–min game ( Crisafulli et al., 2002 ), and spend only 34.1% of the time playing, 56.8% walking, and 9.0% standing ( Narazaki et al., 2009 ). Thus, identifying the physiological requirements of modern basketball is essential in order to develop and prescribe an appropriate physical training program ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ).

Many of the key actions performed by basketball players in a game are based on horizontal movements (sprints and changes of direction), vertical movements (jump shots and rebounds) and combinations of movements within both of these planes, mainly when penetrating to the basket and blocking a shot ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ). These high-intensity movements are usually performed intermittently throughout the game ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ).

The fitness component and energy system in basketball

Many coaches and players equate athleticism with physical fitness in this type of sport. Being physically fit is essential from a health standpoint, but the following fitness components are equally important for elite basketball players ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Shaher, 2011): cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and body composition.

The first component, cardiorespiratory fitness, refers to the effective delivery of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the active body by the heart and lungs during physical work. Aerobic exercise improves cardiorespiratory function ( Meckel et al., 2009 ) and also strengthens the heart muscle. Aerobic training can be done through any activity requiring continuous low-intensity effort for 20-60 min ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ). In this sense basketball requires short and intense periods of activity, during which players expend a great deal of energy at a rapid rate. Anaerobic pathways are another aspect of cardiorespiratory fitness, and provide energy for high-intensity activities. Thus the anaerobic energy systems must also be well developed ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; McInnes et al., 2008 ).

The physiology underlying the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems is complex, and especially so in basketball ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ). On the one hand, the aerobic system, which supplies long-term energy, depends on the presence of oxygen for the production of ATP. This is the preferred energy source for exercise lasting more than 3 min ( Castagna et al., 2005 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ). When basketball players begin exercising, both the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems are involved. However, the relative contribution of each energy source varies according to the demands of the exercise, which in turn vary as functions of the intensity and duration of the activity ( Table 1 ). Basketball is about 20% aerobic and 80% anaerobic, and therefore many factors influence the exact energy expenditure ratio for individual players ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ).

Type of field tests

Assigning exact ratios to fit all styles of play would be impossible. It is widely accepted that basketball is a game requiring a high level of anaerobic fitness. This is certainly the case when a 2-hour game is broken down into shorter segments. For example, if we monitor one player for the first quarter (10 min), we can observe a work-rest ratio of 1:1 or less ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ), but if we monitor the same player for the whole game, we see a work-rest ratio of 1:2-1:3, given that the game includes short breaks: time-outs, quarter breaks and halftime ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). While the energy to perform high-intensity efforts is derived primarily from the anaerobic system during the basketball game, recovery for subsequent bouts of exercise is facilitated during the rest periods by the aerobic system ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ).

It is important to develop a training program that specifically emphasizes the energy system required to play basketball. Within 20 s of rest, 50% of the muscle stores of ATP-CP is restored, and 87% is restored after 60 s. Heavy breathing after high intensity is the process through which the aerobic system metabolizes lactate in an effort to facilitate recovery. In addition, if basketball players have strong basic aerobic conditioning to tolerate high levels of accumulated blood lactate concentration, this will delay the onset of fatigue and enhance productivity on the court ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ).

The physical requirements of a basketball game (intermittent exercise)

The last two decades have yielded a significant accumulation of specific data related to modern methods of coaching basketball ( Shelling and Torres, 2016 ). The body structure and impressive athletic ability of basketball players may account for some of the rapid development of the sport in recent years ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ).

As noted, since the introduction of the 24-s shot clock, the game has become much faster and the concept of fast playing has become crucial in basketball. This change has led to high physical demands on the players, both defensive and offensive, raising the importance of their explosive strength ( Stojanovic et al., 2012 ). For this reason, strength and conditioning coaches and other professionals in the field seek more effective training methods for nurturing and developing players' physical abilities, as well as better methods to monitor and assess the fitness components required for the sport of basketball ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ).

Another important component required for repeated sprints is aerobic capacity for overall performance in the game. Nevertheless, most of the actions during the game are characterized as anaerobic, e.g. jumping, changing direction and footwork ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). A basketball game is considered anaerobic-dominated and requires repetitive short and intense sprints from the players. Such activities take a high toll on the players (Castanga et al., 2005, 2008 ). In a basketball game a player averages 105 intense movements lasting between 2 to 6 s, which occur on average every 21 s on the game clock (not including time-outs). Intensity during these movements shows values of 60 to 75% of VO 2max , and 70-90% of the maximum heart rate ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ). The overall distance a player sprints during the game is less than 10% of the total distance a player moves throughout a full game. Overall, the intermittent activity pattern in basketball demands aerobic capabilities sufficient to sustain repeated short bouts of high-intensity exercise ( Bishop, 2004 ).

Despite the infrequency of these sprints, they have a great impact on the outcome of the game ( Wragg et al., 2000 ). It should be noted that time-outs last for 2 min, the halftime period for 15 min, and foul calls from 20 s to 1 min. The assessment of RSA as a training and research tool is also discussed ( Spencer et al., 2005 ).

To repeat these activities without fatigue two main processes are required: 1) faster renewal of CP stores, and 2) faster removal of blood lactate concentration from the muscles ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). Sport intensities and movement patterns during men's basketball were investigated by videoing the movements of eight elite players and monitoring their heart rate and blood lactate responses during competition ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ). The results are expressed in “live time”, which means actual playing time and “total time” which includes live time as well as all stoppages in play. The mean ± SD frequency of all activities was 997 ± 183, with a change in the movement category every 2.0 s ( Ostojic et al., 2006 ). A mean total of 105 ± 52 high-intensity runs (mean duration of 1.7 s) was recorded for each basketball game, resulting in one high-intensity run every 21 s in live time. Sixty percent of live time was spent engaged in low-intensity activity, while 15% was spent in high-intensity activity. The mean heart rate during live time was 169 ± 9 beats/min -l (89 ± 2% peak HR attained during laboratory testing); 75% of live time was spent with an HR response greater than 85% of the peak heart rate. Mean blood lactate concentration was 6.8 ± 2.8 mM/L, indicating the involvement of glycolysis in the energy demands of basketball. It was concluded in these studies that physiological requirements of men's basketball are high, placing considerable demands on the cardiovascular and metabolic capacities of players ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ; Ostojic et al., 2006 ).

Physical fitness is a performance factor that is characterized by its ability to be assessed using closed tests. Among the existing tests today, there are no data on which are the most optimal ones for the sport to which they are applied ( Mancha-Triguero et al., 2019 ).

Tests for assessing aerobic and neuromuscular capacity

The aim of fitness tests is to assess the condition of athletes in terms of each fitness component, in order to determine what needs to be improved through the training program and to conduct retests at set times to assess whether their condition has changed. These tests are especially important among children and teenagers, so that coaches can see whether players are developing in terms of physical fitness as they get older ( Chiu et al., 2003 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Hoffman, 1996 ; Mujika et al., 2009 ).

The ability to produce great power in a short period of time is an important measure in many sports, such as basketball, soccer and volleyball. For this reason, these team sports place great emphasis on improving strength at every age and every level of performance ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). Optimal development and improvement of this ability, as well as of speed, agility and coordination, is not merely a theoretical exercise in comprehending the principles of physiology and training underlying these fitness components. It is also connected to the need for valid and reliable measurement techniques that make it possible to assess different abilities accurately and consistently ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ).

The most commonly used field tests in the basketball literature

The literature offers a number of widely used tests to measure aerobic and anaerobic fitness ( Abdelkrim et al., 2007 ; Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). The following are examples of field tests that can provide fitness coaches with relevant information for basketball:

Endurance tests (aerobic)

Yo-Yo endurance test – a maximum aerobic capacity test that includes running back and forth for 20 m with increasing effort until the participant becomes exhausted. The test has a high correlation with VO 2max (r = 0.92). This test is reliable and valid for predicting aerobic capacity in different populations ( Clair et al., 1998 ). The test was chosen to evaluate aerobic fitness every few months, due to its suitability to the activity patterns routinely performed by athletes. The pace starts at 8 km/h and increases by 0.5 km/h every minute. The pace is dictated and made audible by an audio disc. Test results are determined by the number of times the athlete performs the sprints before reaching exhaustion ( Castagna et al., 2005 ; Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Ostojic et al., 2006 ).

Yo-Yo recovery test (Level 1) – this version of Yo-Yo has a correlation of r = 0.77 with maximum VO 2max . Assessment includes a 40-m run, divided into 20 m up and 20 m back to the starting point, and 10 s recovery after each full cycle (40 m). The test starts at 10 km/h and increases by 0.5 km/h after each cycle. This version was developed for sports that require intense physical efforts followed by periods of incomplete recovery, such as basketball ( Bangsbo, 2006 ; Castagna et al., 2005 ; Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ).

Cooper test – in this test the player needs to run as far as he/she can in 12 minutes. Its predictive ability of VO 2max is very good r = 0.89 ( Cooper, 1968 ), but does not reflect the character of all ball games ( Castagna et al., 2005 ).

Neuromuscular tests (anaerobic)

5/10-m sprints from a standing start – Starting Speed test : this test evaluates horizontal power while performing a cyclical movement – sprints from a standing start. The first step is decisive in the examinee's achievement. Times are usually measured by photo-electric cells or Optojump (Microgate, Italy). Each player performs 2 sprints from a high start, with 3-5 min of rest between runs. The best time is recorded ( Balciunas, 2006 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Hoffman, 1996 ; Shaher, 2011).

20/30-m sprint test from a standing start – Absolute Speed test : this test also evaluates horizontal power while performing a cyclical movement – sprints from a standing start. The ability to accelerate is decisive for good results. Times are usually measured by photo-electric cells or Optojump). Each player performs two sprints from a standing start, with 3-5 min of rest between runs. The best time is recorded ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Hoffman, 1996 ; Mujika et al., 2009 ; Shaher, 2011).

Repeat Sprint Ability (RSA)Test - field-based team sports present some fitness components which are poorly understood. In particular, repeated-sprint ability (RSA) is one area that has received relatively little research attention until recent times. However, with improvements in technology, time-motion analysis has allowed researchers to document the detailed movement patterns of team-sport athletes. This type of practice involves the metabolic changes occurring during this type of exercise, such as energy system contribution, adenosine triphosphate depletion and resynthesis, phosphocreatine degradation and resynthesis, glycolysis and glycogenolysis, and purine nucleotide loss. Assessment of RSA, as a training and research tool, is also discussed (Spencer et al., 2015). The recognition of the important role of RSA for performance in basketball has led to the wide use of RSA-based tests among basketball players as part of routine fitness testing ( Caprino et al., 2012 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ), as well as for training session strategy (Attene et al., 2015).

Countermovement jump (CMJ) test – this test assesses vertical power in a single jump. Jumps begin while standing straight, then knees are bent and quickly extended while leaving the ground and rising to the maximal height. Hands are usually placed on the hips in order to neutralize momentum from the arms. Each athlete performs 3 maximal jumps with about 2 min of rest between jumps. Jumps are usually performed using Optojump, which is connected to a digital timer that converts time in air to the jump height, or a force plate which contains sensors that measure the strength exerted by the feet ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Hoffman, 1996 ; Shaher, 2011).

Squat jump test – in the same way, it is possible to perform a squat jump as a test. Players assume a low squat position. Movement is stopped and then the athlete jumps as high as they can from this position, with hands on hips or behind their back (García-López et al., 2005).

Standing broad jump – athletes stand with both legs together. They bend their knees and use arm momentum in order to jump. The longest jump of 3 attempts is recorded as the result. If an athlete falls backward the jump must be repeated. Although the standing broad jump was part of the Olympic Game athletics competitions from 1900 to 1912, it has not been part of regular competitions worldwide for more than a century. In addition, no extensive statistics are available about achievements and progress in this event. If this test is used for assessing power, it is only by basketball clubs which do not have advanced equipment.

Also available are agility tests that assess changes of direction which require, among other things, great explosive strenght. Players need starting speed, a fast takeoff, stopping, acceleration, change of direction and at times sideways running. In addition, it is important to mention that the ability to change direction requires high technical skills combined with unique leg work ( Sheppard and Young, 2006 ; Wragg et al., 2000 ). Many agility tests can be found in the literature. The two mentioned here are among the most accepted for assessing the explosive strength of basketball players ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ):

2 x 5-m agility test : this test measures sprinting time, turning, and changing direction. The test is performed by running 5 m in one direction, turning quickly, and returning 5 m to the starting point, a total of 10 m of running. The test can use photoelectric cells or an Optojump system to assess performance ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Sheppard and Young, 2006 ; Wragg et al., 2000 ).

T-test (5-10-5 Shuttle) : this is an agility test that measures how quickly athletes can accurately change direction. The T-test is designed to measure lateral speed as well as forward and backward speed ( Sheppard and Young, 2006 ; Wragg et al., 2000 ; Young et al., 2001 ).

Conclusions

The new generation of basketball players consists of highly conditioned athletes who ultimately elevate the level of the game ( Spencer et al., 2005 ). For consistency in season-long, high-level performance, conditioning is the key. Participation in youth sports such as basketball offers many potential benefits for children and adolescents ( DeFiori et al., 2018 ). However, there is also a concern that an excessive focus on sport-specific intensive training and competition at a young age may impede an athlete’s ability to develop transferable athletic skills, and possibly increase the risk of burnout and overuse injury ( DeFiori et al., 2014 ).

Based on the literature review of field tests presented above, the impression is that sports researchers still seek specific tests to reflect as closely as possible abilities of athletes required in the game itself.

The activity of basketball players is based on a combination of horizontal movements (sprints and changes of direction), vertical movements (jump shots and rebounds), and movements that combine the two movement planes, mainly when penetrating to the basket and blocking shots. These are high-intensity movements that are usually performed intermittently throughout the game and at different intervals, by players in the various positions on the court ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ).

This combined type of movement has caused fitness coaches, physiologists, and other professionals in the field to seek the most effective training methods for promoting and developing physical abilities in basketball players ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ). Today, as fitness coaches deliberate long and hard about which training method is most effective for developing explosive strenght, they encounter many limitations in choosing the most effective tests for assessing this component. A number of efforts have been made to develop specific tests for assessing power among players ( Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ; Ostojic et al., 2006 ; Sheppard and Young, 2006 ; Wragg et al., 2000 ). Studies show a correlation between horizontal and vertical power ( Hori et al., 2008 ; Sheppard et al., 2008 ). However, the literature does not offer a sufficient number of specific tests in ball sports to enable examining power where horizontal and vertical movements are combined ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ).

Karcher and Buchheit (2016) conducted a study in team handball which examined the benefit of conducting CMJ tests to predict specific jumping ability in handball. The results showed no clear correlation between time in the air in jump shots and the CMJ, indicating that the use of the CMJ for predicting specific jumping ability in handball, with its combination of horizontal and vertical movement, is questionable. Thus, specific tests are needed that reflect jumping ability and power for team handball. In contrast, a volleyball study by Sheppard et al. (2008) revealed a strong connection between CMJ performance and the jump serve which combines both horizontal and vertical components as does the spike jump. This seems to indicate that specific connections among these variables may differ from one sport to another and between the various developmental levels of athletes. However, it is still not known whether the protocols of tests like the CMJ can actually predict specific jumping abilities in basketball (such as the actual jumping time when penetrating to the basket while holding the ball and pushing off from one leg). As for improvement in performance, several intervention studies in ball games have shown that maximal strength training, plyometric training, sprint training, complex training, and other types of training all significantly improved CMJ performance ( DeFiori et al., 2014 ; Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Mujika et al., 2009 ). At the same time, it is still not clear whether these improvements can be transferred to game situations, such as lay-ups and penetrating to the basket, and therefore there is a need for future studies.

There is no doubt that aerobic capacity is significant in basketball for rapid recovery from sprints and repeated jumps ( Meckel et al., 2009 ). The competition demands encountered by basketball players suggest that both anaerobic and aerobic energy pathways contribute to energy sources ( Edwards et al., 2018 ), which cause fatigue and lower the rate of activity, thus impinging on the quality of a player's game. Therefore, coaches and fitness coaches must correctly measure their players' aerobic capacity, mainly before the season begins. Today a number of tests for aerobic capacity are available, both laboratory and field tests ( Gottlieb et al., 2014 ; Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ). The laboratory VO 2max test is accurate, but because of its high cost various field tests, such as the Cooper test (sequential 12-min running tests), have been developed ( Cooper, 1968 ).

Various types of Level 1 Yo-Yo tests ( Bangsbo, 2006 ; Delextrat and Cohen, 2008 ) yield good predictions of VO 2max (aerobic ability) in ball games defined as sports with intermittent activities – in other words, many intense activities with short recovery periods. However, the tests are not adapted specifically to particular sports. In other words, the specific elements of the sport, as well as rest periods, changes of direction, typical movements, etc., must be taken into consideration when adapting the tests for particular sports. In general, the transfer of physical improvements from training to team ball games is difficult to predict, when technical abilities, complex interactions between players, and other factors must be considered.

Future lines of research

One of the problems with many of the physiological and biomechanical studies of the vertical jump is that they neutralize arm movement in an attempt to isolate the effect of leg muscle power in the action. In this way they hope to find a causal relationship between improved muscular power or muscle output, and jump height. Yet it must be kept in mind that few sports require athletes to jump without arm momentum (i.e., with arms on hips or behind the back). The result is that such tests are less useful for coaches in the field. In general, it is advisable to adhere to the principle of specificity in training – improving a given motor skill should entail practicing that skill as it is performed in games/competitions. To this end, specific tests for basketball should be developed and used.

One of the aspects to be considered is recovery time. Sports in general, and basketball in particular, involve intense but non-consistent body movement. Based on the observation and analysis of 15 basketball games in the Israel Premier League, it is apparent that basketball players experience incomplete recovery during rest periods that last from 10 s (for fouls with no free throws) and 30 s (for fouls with two free throws) to time-outs of about one minute in duration, and timeouts of somewhat more than two minutes between quarters. Importantly, the frequency of recovery (10-30 s) was observed on average every three possessions.

To the best of our knowledge, no specific test has yet been developed to assess the unique features of basketball. Thus, it would be both important and interesting to build a reliable and valid test of which results will provide coaches with tools for testing the specific abilities required in basketball, even if certain compromises must be made to accommodate field-based limitations.

The reviewed aerobic tests demonstrate a good correlation with VO 2max ( Meckel and Gottlieb, 2009 ; Meckel et al., 2009 ) which is very important for recovery from short, intense bouts of movements of a few seconds. However, they do not offer elements similar enough to basketball movements which require leg muscle exertion. A basketball-oriented test should take this into consideration as well. The analyzed bibliography reveals the lack of the design and use of specific tests to highlight the qualities involved in the targeted sport ( Mancha-Triguero et al., 2019 ).

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Basketball Printables

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Basketball is a sport played by two opposing teams consisting of five members each. Points are scored by successfully tossing the ball through the opposing team's basket, which is a net suspended on a goal ten feet off the ground.

Basketball is the only major sport that originated in the United States. It was invented by physical education instructor, James Naismith in December 1891.

Naismith was an instructor at a YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts. During the cold winter months, his PE class developed a reputation for being unruly. The PE instructor was asked to come up with an activity that would keep the boys occupied, didn't require much equipment, and wasn't physically rough like football.

It is said that James Naismith came up with the rules in about an hour. The first game was played with peach baskets and a soccer ball - and it netted a grand total of one basket scored.

The game caught on quickly with the first basketball rules being published in the YMCA campus paper the following January.

At first, the number of players varied depending on how many wanted to play and how much space was available. By 1897, five players became the official number, though pick-up games can involve as few as two players facing off be as little as one-on-one.

For the first two years, basketball was played with a soccer ball. The first basketball was introduced in 1894. It was a laced ball, 32 inches in circumference. It wasn't until 1948 that an unlaced, 30-inch version became the official ball of the sport.

The first collegiate game was played in 1896, and the NBA (National Basketball Association) was formed in 1946.

If you've got a child who is fascinated with basketball, capitalize on that interest. Help your student learn more about the sport with this set of basketball printables.

Basketball Vocabulary

Print the pdf: Basketball Vocabulary Sheet

In this activity, students will be introduced to the terminology associated with basketball. Use a dictionary or the Internet to look up each of the terms on the basketball vocabulary sheet. Then, write each word on the blank line next to its correct definition.

Some terms, such as dribble and rebound may already be familiar to your students, while others, such as airball and alley-oop may sound strange and need a bit more explanation.

Basketball Wordsearch

Print the pdf: Basketball Word Search

Use this fun word search to review the basketball terms that your student defined with the vocabulary worksheet. Each term from the word bank can be found among the jumbled letters in the word search.

Spend some time reviewing those terms your student doesn't remember. Illustrating them may be a fun activity for young basketball fans.

Basketball Challenge

Print the pdf: Basketball Challenge

Test your student's grasp of basketball vocabulary with this challenging worksheet. Students will circle the correct word from the multiple-choice options for each definition.

Basketball Alphabet Activity

Print the pdf: Basketball Alphabet Activity

Does your young basketball fan need to practice alphabetizing words? Make the activity more fun with this list of basketball-related words. Students will place each term from the word bank in the correct alphabetical order.

James Naismith, Inventor of Basketball Coloring Page

Print the pdf: James Naismith, Inventor of Basketball Coloring Page

Learn more about James Naismith, the inventor of basketball. Print the coloring page which contains the following facts about the origins of the sport:

James Naismith was a Physical Education Instructor (born in Canada) who invented the game of basketball (1861-1939). He was born on November 6, 1939, in Ramsay Township, Ontario, Canada. At Springfield, Massachusetts, YMCA, he had a rowdy class that was stuck indoors due to the weather. Dr. Luther Gulick, head of YMCA Physical Education, ordered Naismith to come up with a new game that wouldn't take up too much room, would keep the athletes in shape, and would be fair for all players and not too rough. Thus, basketball was born. The first game was played in December 1891, using a soccer ball and two peach baskets.

James Naismith: The Canadian Inventor of Basketball
Biography of James Naismith, Inventor of Basketball
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Basketball Terms: A Glossary of Definitions to Know

Welcome to our comprehensive basketball terms glossary, your ultimate guide to understanding basketball terminology. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get familiar with the basics or an avid fan aiming to deepen your knowledge, our glossary breaks down complex jargon into simple, easy-to-understand definitions. Use the search function of our basketball terms glossary or browse by letter.

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WHERE LEARNING BASKETBALL NEVER STOPS

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Term Paper on Basketball

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Term Paper – Format, Examples and Writing Guide

Table of Contents

Definition:

Term paper is a type of academic writing assignment that is typically assigned to students at the end of a semester or term. It is usually a research-based paper that is meant to demonstrate the student’s understanding of a particular topic, as well as their ability to analyze and synthesize information from various sources.

Term papers are usually longer than other types of academic writing assignments and can range anywhere from 5 to 20 pages or more, depending on the level of study and the specific requirements of the assignment. They often require extensive research and the use of a variety of sources, including books, articles, and other academic publications.

Term Paper Format

The format of a term paper may vary depending on the specific requirements of your professor or institution. However, a typical term paper usually consists of the following sections:

Title page: This should include the title of your paper, your name, the course name and number, your instructor’s name, and the date.
Abstract : This is a brief summary of your paper, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of your topic, the research question or hypothesis, your methodology, and your main findings or conclusions.
Introduction : This section should introduce your topic and provide background information on the subject. You should also state your research question or hypothesis and explain the importance of your research.
Literature review : This section should review the existing literature on your topic. You should summarize the key findings and arguments made by other scholars and identify any gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
Methodology: This section should describe the methods you used to collect and analyze your data. You should explain your research design, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques.
Results : This section should present your findings. You can use tables, graphs, and charts to illustrate your data.
Discussion : This section should interpret your findings and explain what they mean in relation to your research question or hypothesis. You should also discuss any limitations of your study and suggest areas for future research.
Conclusion : This section should summarize your main findings and conclusions. You should also restate the importance of your research and its implications for the field.
References : This section should list all the sources you cited in your paper using a specific citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
Appendices : This section should include any additional materials that are relevant to your study but not essential to your main argument (e.g., survey questions, interview transcripts).

Structure of Term Paper

Here’s an example structure for a term paper:

I. Introduction

A. Background information on the topic

B. Thesis statement

II. Literature Review

A. Overview of current literature on the topic

B. Discussion of key themes and findings from literature

C. Identification of gaps in current literature

III. Methodology

A. Description of research design

B. Discussion of data collection methods

C. Explanation of data analysis techniques

IV. Results

A. Presentation of findings

B. Analysis and interpretation of results

C. Comparison of results with previous studies

V. Discussion

A. Summary of key findings

B. Explanation of how results address the research questions

C. Implications of results for the field

VI. Conclusion

A. Recap of key points

B. Significance of findings

C. Future directions for research

VII. References

A. List of sources cited in the paper

How to Write Term Paper

Here are some steps to help you write a term paper:

Choose a topic: Choose a topic that interests you and is relevant to your course. If your professor has assigned a topic, make sure you understand it and clarify any doubts before you start.
Research : Conduct research on your topic by gathering information from various sources such as books, academic journals, and online resources. Take notes and organize your information systematically.
Create an outline : Create an outline of your term paper by arranging your ideas and information in a logical sequence. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Write a thesis statement: Write a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea of your paper. Your thesis statement should be included in your introduction.
Write the introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention, provide background information on your topic, and introduce your thesis statement.
Write the body : The body of your paper should provide supporting evidence for your thesis statement. Use your research to provide details and examples to support your argument. Make sure to organize your ideas logically and use transition words to connect paragraphs.
Write the conclusion : The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.
Edit and proofread: Edit and proofread your term paper carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Format and cite your sources: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your professor and cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style.
Submit your paper : Submit your paper on time and according to the instructions provided by your professor.

Term Paper Example

Here’s an example of a term paper:

Title : The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity

As the world becomes more digitally interconnected, cybersecurity threats are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Traditional security measures are no longer enough to protect against these threats. This paper explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity, including how AI can be used to detect and respond to threats in real-time, the challenges of implementing AI in cybersecurity, and the potential ethical implications of AI-powered security systems. The paper concludes with recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their cybersecurity strategies.

Introduction :

The increasing number of cybersecurity threats in recent years has led to a growing interest in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve cybersecurity. AI has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a security breach. Additionally, AI can automate responses to threats, allowing for faster and more effective mitigation of security incidents. However, there are also challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for large amounts of high-quality data, the potential for AI systems to make mistakes, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI in security.

Literature Review:

This section of the paper reviews existing research on the use of AI in cybersecurity. It begins by discussing the types of AI techniques used in cybersecurity, including machine learning, natural language processing, and neural networks. The literature review then explores the advantages of using AI in cybersecurity, such as its ability to detect previously unknown threats and its potential to reduce the workload of security analysts. However, the review also highlights some of the challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, such as the need for high-quality training data and the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks.

Methodology :

To better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with using AI in cybersecurity, this paper conducted a survey of cybersecurity professionals working in a variety of industries. The survey included questions about the types of AI techniques used in their organizations, the challenges they faced when implementing AI in cybersecurity, and their perceptions of the ethical implications of using AI in security.

The results of the survey showed that while many organizations are interested in using AI in cybersecurity, they face several challenges when implementing these systems. These challenges include the need for high-quality training data, the potential for AI systems to be fooled by sophisticated attacks, and the difficulty of integrating AI with existing security systems. Additionally, many respondents expressed concerns about the ethical implications of using AI in security, such as the potential for AI to be biased or to make decisions that are harmful to individuals or society as a whole.

Discussion :

Based on the results of the survey and the existing literature, this paper discusses the potential benefits and risks of using AI in cybersecurity. It also provides recommendations for organizations looking to integrate AI into their security strategies, such as the need to prioritize data quality and to ensure that AI systems are transparent and accountable.

Conclusion :

While there are challenges associated with implementing AI in cybersecurity, the potential benefits of using these systems are significant. AI can help organizations detect and respond to threats more quickly and effectively, reducing the risk of security breaches. However, it is important for organizations to be aware of the potential ethical implications of using AI in security and to take steps to ensure that these systems are transparent and accountable.

References:

Alkhaldi, S., Al-Daraiseh, A., & Lutfiyya, H. (2019). A Survey on Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Cyber Security. Journal of Information Security, 10(03), 191-207.
Gartner. (2019). Gartner Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2020. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/gartner-top-10-strategic-technology-trends-for-2020/
Kshetri, N. (2018). Blockchain’s roles in meeting key supply chain management objectives. International Journal of Information Management, 39, 80-89.
Lipton, Z. C. (2018). The mythos of model interpretability. arXiv preprint arXiv:1606.03490.
Schneier, B. (2019). Click Here to Kill Everybody: Security and Survival in a Hyper-Connected World. WW Norton & Company.
Wahab, M. A., Rahman, M. S., & Islam, M. R. (2020). A Survey on AI Techniques in Cybersecurity. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 11(2), 22-27.

When to Write Term Paper

A term paper is usually a lengthy research paper that is assigned to students at the end of a term or semester. There are several situations when writing a term paper may be required, including:

As a course requirement: In most cases, a term paper is required as part of the coursework for a particular course. It may be assigned by the instructor as a way of assessing the student’s understanding of the course material.
To explore a specific topic : A term paper can be an excellent opportunity for students to explore a specific topic of interest in-depth. It allows them to conduct extensive research on the topic and develop their understanding of it.
To develop critical thinking skills : Writing a term paper requires students to engage in critical thinking and analysis. It helps them to develop their ability to evaluate and interpret information, as well as to present their ideas in a clear and coherent manner.
To prepare for future academic or professional pursuits: Writing a term paper can be an excellent way for students to prepare for future academic or professional pursuits. It can help them to develop the research and writing skills necessary for success in higher education or in a professional career.

Purpose of Term Paper

The main purposes of a term paper are:

Demonstrate mastery of a subject: A term paper provides an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. It requires students to research and analyze the topic, and then present their findings in a clear and organized manner.
Develop critical thinking skills: Writing a term paper requires students to think critically about their subject matter, analyzing various sources and viewpoints, and evaluating evidence to support their arguments.
Improve writing skills : Writing a term paper helps students improve their writing skills, including organization, clarity, and coherence. It also requires them to follow specific formatting and citation guidelines, which can be valuable skills for future academic and professional endeavors.
Contribute to academic discourse : A well-written term paper can contribute to academic discourse by presenting new insights, ideas, and arguments that add to the existing body of knowledge on a particular topic.
Prepare for future research : Writing a term paper can help prepare students for future research, by teaching them how to conduct a literature review, evaluate sources, and formulate research questions and hypotheses. It can also help them develop research skills that they can apply in future academic or professional endeavors.

Advantages of Term Paper

There are several advantages of writing a term paper, including:

In-depth exploration: Writing a term paper allows you to delve deeper into a specific topic, allowing you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Improved writing skills: Writing a term paper involves extensive research, critical thinking, and the organization of ideas into a cohesive written document. As a result, writing a term paper can improve your writing skills significantly.
Demonstration of knowledge: A well-written term paper demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, which can be beneficial for academic or professional purposes.
Development of research skills : Writing a term paper requires conducting thorough research, analyzing data, and synthesizing information from various sources. This process can help you develop essential research skills that can be applied in many other areas.
Enhancement of critical thinking : Writing a term paper encourages you to think critically, evaluate information, and develop well-supported arguments. These skills can be useful in many areas of life, including personal and professional decision-making.
Preparation for further academic work : Writing a term paper is excellent preparation for more extensive academic projects, such as a thesis or dissertation.

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How to Write a Term Paper

How to Write a Term Paper - Getting to the Basics

A term paper is generally structured with an opening introduction, followed by several body paragraphs, and culminates with a conclusion. It articulates a central thesis statement, bolstered by corroborative evidence and critical analysis. The writing is formal in nature, adheres to a designated formatting style like APA or MLA, and is complemented by accurate citations and a comprehensive bibliography.

Writing a term paper is a structured process that demands careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step approach to guide you:

Understand the Assignment : Ensure you grasp the requirements, the topic's scope, and the deadline.
Choose a Topic : Select a topic that is interesting to you and meets the assignment's criteria. It should be narrow enough to explore fully within the paper's constraints.
Conduct Preliminary Research : Gather background information to further refine your topic, develop a thesis, and create a research question.
Develop a Thesis Statement : This is the central argument or claim of your paper. It should be clear, concise, and arguable.
Create an Outline : Organize your main points and supporting details into an outline. This will serve as a roadmap for your term paper.
Conduct Detailed Research : Use credible sources to collect evidence and information that support your thesis. Take careful notes and keep track of your sources for citations.
Write the Introduction : Start with a hook to grab the reader's interest, provide background information, and present your thesis statement.
Write the Body : Each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Use evidence and analysis to back up each point.
Write the Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate the thesis in the context of the evidence you provided. Discuss the implications of your findings or future directions for research.
Revise and Edit : Look for any gaps in logic or content, check for clarity and flow, and ensure each part of the paper supports your thesis. Edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Format Your Paper : Follow the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) for your discipline, and ensure your paper adheres to all formatting guidelines.
Final Review : Give your paper a final read-through, checking for coherence, structure, and formatting.
Submit : Turn in your paper by the deadline, and ensure you have a copy saved for your records.

You always hear the word “term paper,” and in the most basic sense, it is the paper that sums up everything you have learned in a term or semester. Think of it as the ‘gate pass’ for a checkpoint in a game: you need to secure one by finishing one important challenge.

As every game requires, that particular challenge is not similar to other challenges you have encountered. Thus, you must conserve every remaining energy and time to prepare for the challenge.

Going back to our topic, term papers require your knowledge, effort, and time. You can only produce a faultless and astounding term paper once you have mastered the fundamental things you will continuously see in every paper you will be crafting in the coming semesters.

Research-Based

In a term paper, you may not want to ditch your personal experiences or observations when integrating what you have learned in a single term or semester. Most of the time, integrating salient findings and concepts from literature and other scholarly sources may be required depending on the type of paper you are asked to write.

A topic, especially if it is purely theoretical or academic, may warrant you to do a literature review and background research. Fret not, though, as this blog will guide you through making your term paper a work of research.

Since a term paper is research-based, it is almost always impossible not to involve critical thinking and analysis on a certain topic. After all, the best way to discuss a topic, especially if it is complex, is to break it down into pieces. Once disassembled, you can evaluate the evidence, examine its validity, and draw reasoned conclusions based on your findings.

Thesis Statement

You might be able to equate a term paper to an essay. They seem to get along, especially with the structure and purpose of writing. However, you can never go wrong with formulating a good thesis statement for your term paper.

As it is more similar to a research paper, a term paper can be quite long, so having a good thesis statement reinstates the main argument or purpose of your writing. It guides the entire direction of your paper and helps your reader grasp its focus– no matter how long and winding his or her experience will be.

Logical Flow

We may love a fun, creative, and often chaotic way of writing, especially when reading a narrative essay as a coursework assignment. Sorry to burst your bubbles, but a term paper may not follow the same route.

As a standard term paper is full of concepts, terms, arguments, and ideas, it deserves great attention to logic and organization. This means that each section of the paper must build up from the previous one, and transitions between paragraphs and sections should observe smoothness and coherence.

What is a Term Paper In Terms of Its Various Types and Forms

Writing a term paper entails preparation. You can only wish that you have a ton of brain cells and resources to help you finalize your paper that is good for submission– and a stellar score.

However, preparation is only one thing in the long-lasting process of term paper writing.

The term paper structure will still depend on the scope of analysis, as well as the categories of the term paper. Yes, you saw it correctly: types or categories of term papers may have different structures or, in most cases, purposes.

This part of your journey in term paper writing will acquaint you with different types of term papers according to purpose and structure.

Analytical Paper

From the word itself, an analytical paper requires you to break down a concept, theory, or phenomenon into several parts. These parts may come in the form of elements, experiences, principles, and many other related components.

An analytical paper aims to examine these parts critically and evaluate them accordingly. Analytical papers are often found in social sciences and humanities, and they are mostly requested for a term paper writing service .

Possible topics that resemble your future topic under the mentioned fields are critiquing a philosophical theory or analyzing globalization's impact on a specific country's pop culture.

Argumentative Paper

What is a term paper without presenting a stance? In an argumentative term paper, your professor might give you a debatable or controversial topic that requires your critical thinking and persuasive skills to be utilized.

In this type of term paper, you must integrate a literature review and empirical evidence to support your stance and counter several opposing views. Argumentations are often found in several branches of the social sciences, such as law, ethics, and literature.

You may stumble upon topics like augmenting a controversial public policy or defending a particular interpretation of a literary piece.

Descriptive Paper

Fulfilling this type of term paper entails more than injecting fancy adjectives, imageries, and vivid narrations. When dealing with descriptive term papers, you must provide a detailed overview of a particular topic, event, phenomenon, or concept.

If you ask me how to format a term paper of this kind, the descriptive language used must be realistic and accurate, not just merely ornamental. This orientation would provide a seamless and truthful picture for the reader of your paper.

Although your term paper may be descriptive, objectivity should not be taken away. Descriptive term papers are mostly required in the natural sciences, such as physics, chemistry, Earth science, and biology. A perfect example is the description of the geological features of a national park.

Comparative Papers

True to its name, this type of term paper compares and contrasts two or more theories, subjects, schools of thought, and approaches.

Upon taking the two major steps, you will need to analyze the similarities and differences between the elements, and you may formulate conclusions regarding their significance or implications. Comparative term papers are commonly seen in economics, political science, literature, sociology, and history.

A prime example might be comparing two distinct economic systems or analyzing the similarities and differences between political theories, such as Republicanism and Democracy.

Expository Papers

How to start a term paper of this type? We just have to take a hint at its name: it ‘exposes’ a piece of information. Elaborating on this, term papers adhering to this type explain or inform the prospective audience about a specific topic, concept, process, or phenomenon.

Since we are dealing with information, it has to be ensured that the latter must be accurate, truthful, and sufficient. Writing expository papers may also entail a handful of related writing tasks, such as defining key terms and organizing information according to related themes.

The fields that most likely require expository term papers are education, communication arts, journalism, and several liberal arts areas.

Grasping each type of term paper above may be quite a handful. Apart from preparing a term paper, you are confronted with a big challenge to choose a type or, in some cases, integrate one type into another.

Regardless of your writing decisions, you are always in for a treat: your term paper proposal will not be a failure if you are more than familiar with your purpose of writing one.

In addition, writing services like Studyfy let you access term paper help like no other. From your term paper outline to the final touches, an array of professional writers are present to provide personalized writing services for negotiable pricing.

What’s The Proper Term Paper Format? From the Ground Up

I am fully aware that you have been wired up with all the information you need to know about term papers, but do not falter yet, as we are just in the most needed part of this blog: formatting your term paper.

Writing a term paper will not be as polished and organized if you do not prepare your format ahead of your writing preparations. So, from conceptualizing your title to proofreading your paper, our tips and tricks will propel you to the towering heights of marks you have always aimed for.

Start Strong with Your Title Page

A well-established term paper will not be realized without a strong facade through a title page. Many students are seen as not focusing on this part of the paper, thinking that it does not hold as much importance as other parts, but if you are thinking the same, you need to change your mind.

Some instructors and professors look at the title page to check if you adhere to the formatting guidelines. If you are less likely to notice such inconsistencies, your professor might think you are not keen enough to eye important details in the rest of your paper.

Pro-Tip: As early as creating your title page, be sure to follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your professor or academic institution, such as font size, spacing, and margin specifications.

Abstract– Concise Yet Complete

An abstract is likewise an important component of a term paper, just as in a research paper. It encapsulates the crucial pieces of information that the reader must know. It includes the background of the paper, methods, results, and implications of the findings.

While the abstract may require a specific word count that differs from one academic institution to another, it is generally preferred to keep everything short yet complete. Remember: the term paper itself will likely become wordy and extensive, so let us spare space for urgency on the paper’s abstract.

Pro-Tip : Keep everything concise and elaborate on the findings more than the background. The usual word count for an abstract is 150-200 words.

Term Paper’s Background: Where the Thesis Statement is Cleared Its Way

Term paper writing will get as fired up at this point since this part introduces the rationale or context of the paper, asking the question, “What is the topic all about?” In presenting the background, the introduction of the paper's main argument is given– the thesis statement.

This crucial part of the paper is often written as a declarative sentence or a question. To make everything clear and articulated, the paper’s background must provide an extensive exploration of the topic that could lead to formulating the thesis statement. There should be a profound connection between the rationale of the paper and its main purpose.

Pro-Tip : Term papers are more flexible than research papers and journal articles in terms of structuring their introduction. You may hook the reader's attention by putting an engaging opening sentence or anecdote.

Arranging Lit Review: To Each Its Own

Regardless of whether the literature review section of a term paper is separated or integrated into the introduction, this part must provide an extensive overview of existing research and scholarship relevant to the topic.

While one can put empirical and observational studies into the review, it is important to put a premium on reputable articles and research reports that are peer-reviewed and published in indexed journals. When no single guideline talks about a window period for acceptable literature, you may set one for yourself as a guide.

Pro-Tip: Arrange the literature review thematically, chronologically, or topically, depending on the ways that you desire to highlight some aspects of your term paper.

To an Extensive Results and Discussion Section

Term papers will not be complete without the discussion section. This part seals the deal and is an important piece of a complex puzzle. It interprets the results in conjunction with the questions at hand and assesses their value by comparing them with previous studies according to their agreement or disagreement.

Pro-Tip: When sourcing previous studies as points of reference for the results, always strive to find ones that both agree or disagree with them. This ensures the polarity and absence of bias in the reporting of the results.

Closing the Curtains with the Paper’s Conclusion

When concluding your term paper writing, always restate the thesis statement. It always feels right and justifiable if the main purpose of the entire term paper is reiterated in the last part of the paper. Apart from that, recommendations and final thoughts may be included in this section.

The conclusion section, deemed shorter than other key sections in the term paper, may come in a short paragraph or bullet format, depending on your guidelines.

Pro-Tip: New information that is not previously included in the paper is not welcome in the conclusion. You might need to write my term paper again if I committed a mistake. You may instead synthesize the key points and results and leave a lasting impression on your reader by either providing a strong closing statement or a reinforcement of the main argument of the term paper.

References and Appendices: Two Pieces That Complete

One may argue that writing term papers may not need references and appendices sections, but the material they provide may prove otherwise. Without the references, sources will not be identified nor assessed, leaving no room for integrity on the writer's part.

Having no appendices section, on the other hand, does not provide enough context or additional information about the important plans that were executed during the creation of the paper. It is in these sections that small things matter.

Pro-Tip: Double-check the veracity of the references and appendices section. This may entail using the proper citation style for the reference titles and labeling the materials under the appendices section.

What’s a term paper? How to write a successful term paper?

A: A term paper is a type of academic paper that a student, typically from a higher academic institution such as a university, completes at the end of a semester or a term. Since it is considered a terminal requirement, writing a term paper requires one to conduct research, utilize higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, and present findings on a topic or subject by incorporating the knowledge and skills throughout the entirety of the term.

Since a term paper qualifies as an academic paper, writing services offer custom term paper assistance whenever needed. It is only through tailor-fit writing assistance and professional guidance from seasoned writers that you can achieve a stellar grade without getting down a rough route, thanks to Studyfy.

How to write a term paper if there is a word count?

A word count may be a bummer for some, but it can motivate you to budget how you will use your words efficiently. Make sure to allocate several words strategically. It is recommended that the discussion section gets the highest allocation among all the term paper sections.

Your research and writing process can be influenced by the term paper format and word count. As academic papers often have a specific set of rules, make sure to follow them to the dot.

What is the general structure of a term paper? Is it the same as a research paper?

The universally accepted structure of a term paper is quite similar to a research report: title page, rationale/background, literature review, methodology, results and discussion, and references. An appendices section is optional but necessary for other fields of interest.

A good term paper is like a good research paper. Research papers, like other academic papers, follow the named predictable pattern; just make sure to present your own research through engaging body paragraphs and state primary and secondary sources, including other research papers you used while writing.

Are term papers similar to research papers? How similar and different is the writing process?

Term paper writing is similar to research writing in terms of structure and purpose. However, they differ in scope, audience, and length. While a term paper has a broader scope and is meant to be seen by the course instructor, a research paper has a narrower scope and is written for a wider academic audience. However, what's crucial is the thorough research process.

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Basketball Terms & Terminology

Written by: Chris Hungerford

September 27, 2018

Time to read 17 min

With as many basketball terms as there are in this unbelievably popular sport, it’s no wonder that even the most savvy of coaches and players sometimes catch themselves unsure of a new term within the game. For example, over the past few years analysts have been throwing around terms like Stretch Four and 3 and D. If you are unsure what these terms mean, then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our list of 160 of the most common terms in basketball.

1 and 1 - When a player is awarded one free throw that becomes a live ball if the shot is missed. If the shot goes in, the player is awarded a second free throw.

1-3-1 Zone Defense - As with any Zone Defense, players protect a particular space instead of one single player. In 1-3-1, the players are positioned with one at the top of the three-point arc, three players lined parallel in the middle, and one player down under the hoop. Players do not stay still and the formation will change as the ball is moved within the half-court.

2-3 Zone - Much like the 1-3-1, the 2-3 Zone puts two players at the top of the key and three players spread evenly about across the baseline but in front of the hoop. Each player protects a spot, but offensive ball movement dictates how the players react and move.

3-2 Zone - 3-2 is just like 2-3, but in this case, three players stay up top with only two players down low. This defense is especially effective against teams that shoot from regularly from beyond the arc.

1-2-1-1 Press - This is a full-court press where the first defender puts pressure on the player inbounding the ball, and the 1-2-1 formation behind the defender awaits to apply pressure on the ball in an attempt to wear down the offense and hopefully get a steal or a shot-clock violation.

3 in the Key - When an offensive player spends 3 seconds in the key they are called for a violation. This rule is designed to keep defensive players from camping out in the key and preventing shots around the basket.

5 Second Violation - On a dead ball (after the ball goes out of bounds, or a time out) players have five seconds to pass the ball inbounds. If they take longer than five seconds a violation returns the ball back to the other team.

Airball - When a player shoots and the ball does not hit the rim or the basket.

Alley-Oop - When a player lobs the ball to another player who catches the ball while still in the air and either dunks or lays it in.

And One - When a player gets fouled in the act of shooting and the shot goes in they are awarded a single free throw to turn a two-point play into a three-point play, or a three-point basket into a four-point play. Players often use these terms whenever they get folded in the act of shooting, but the And One is strictly for the additional free-throw awarded on made baskets.

Assist - Anytime a player passes to a player who then scores within the flow of the pass. For example, a point guard would be awarded an assist if he passed to a player in transition who then made a layup, but a player would not be awarded an assist if he passed to someone who dribbled several times, then drove and scored.

Backboard - The rectangular-shaped board that the basket is attached to. The backboard is often used for layups and mid-range shots from the side of the court.

Backcourt (space) - The half of the court that is opposite of the offensive team’s hoop.

Backcourt (players) - The guards on a team are referred to as the backcourt. Forwards/Center are front court.

Backcourt Violation - When a player spends too much time, (usually 10 seconds) in the backcourt, the player is called for a violation. Most states give teams ten seconds to get the ball past half-court.

Backdoor - When a player cuts away from the hoop, usually to set a screen, then quickly shifts back towards the hoop for a shot.

Ball fake - When a player uses the ball to fake a pass or a shot.

Ball handling - The ability to dribble through defenders, dribble without turning the ball over, or utilize ball fakes and other ball-related skills. Ball handling is a broad term that can apply to point guards, but players like Demarcus Cousins would be considered great ball handlers even at the center position.

Ball Side - The side the ball is currently positioned.

Ball Reversal - When the ball is moved from one side of the court to the other it is referred to as a ball reversal.

Bank shot - When a shot bounces off the backboard. Other phrases with the same meaning: Bank and Banked it.

Baseline - The lines on the ends of each court, about four feet under each basket.

Basket - The actual hoop that is fastened to the backboard. Although it is often referred to as the rim, the original hoop was a literal peach basket that James Naismith placed ten feet above ground on a wall in a Springfield, MA YMCA.

Behind-the-back - When a player dribbles the ball behind his or her back.

Behind-the-back-pass - When a player passes the ball by throwing it behind his or her back.

Bench - The seating area where the substitute players and the coach sit during the game. Sometimes called The Pine.

Big man - A player who plays Forward or Center. Usually, this refers to a four or five, which is usually a reference to the Power Forward and Center.

Block - When a defense player swats away the ball from a player in the act of shooting.

Blocking foul - When a defensive player blocks the offensive player with his body it is considered a foul unless the defensive player was already in position.

Block - An area outside the key where two small rectangles are positioned just a few feet from the hoop.

Bounce Pass - When a player passes the ball by bouncing it off the floor.

Boxing out - When a player positions their body in front of another player and turns to look toward the hoop in anticipation of a rebound on a missed shot. Boxing out requires the player to utilize their backside and leg positioning to keep their opponent from getting around them.

Box and One - A defensive strategy that places two players on the block, two at the top of the key area, and one free player who will cover the most dangerous offensive player no matter where he is. The four players form the box formation and guard areas of the court, but the single defender just follows the most dangerous offensive player.

Brick - When a shot makes a loud clank against the rim it is considered a brick, but a brick has evoked to refer to just about any missed shot other than an airball.

Buzzer Beater - When a player attempts a shot and the buzzer sounds to end the period while the ball is in mid-air.

Carry - When a player dribbles the ball and places their hand to the side or underneath in an attempt to pause the ball’s momentum. This call has been relaxed considerably at the NBA level, but is still called very tight in most other levels of play.

Center - The Center is typically the tallest person on the floor. Traditionally the Center is the player who stays in the post and plays in the style of Shaquille O’Neal and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, but over the past decade players at the Center position have become more versatile—shooting long-range shots and handling the ball more. The Center position is also known as the 5.

Charge - When a defender establishes position and an offensive player collides with him it is considered a charge.

Charity Stripe - Another term for the free-throw line.

Cherry Picking - When a player fails to return to the defensive end of the court, then waits near her own basket to try and score an easy basket.

Chest Pass - When a player passes with two hands from the chest area by pushing the ball outward and flicking his wrists away from the body.

Closeout - When an offensive player first catches the ball, a defensive player can close by sprinting toward the player in order to prevent him from driving, or placing a hand high in front of him to block or defend his shot.

Court Vision - The ability of a player to see the whole court and read what teammates and the defense are doing. Court vision is developed only after players master the ability to dribble without looking at the ball.

Cross-court violation - Once a player crosses half court they are not allowed to return to the other half with the ball. This is a cross-court or backcourt violation.

Cross-Screen - When a player moves from one side of the court to another to set a screen.

Crossover - When a player dribbles quickly to one side, then switches direction and dribbles toward the other side to shake his defender. This can be done by dribbling in front of the body, behind the back, or even between the legs.

Cut - When a player makes a quick change of direction to get open it is considered a cut.

Defense - When a team does not have possession of the ball it is considered the defensive team. This is different than sports like football as the same players rotate from defense to offense constantly throughout the game.

Deflection - When a defense touches the ball without getting a steal but still impedes the ball’s natural motion.

Diamond and One - Similar to Box and One, this defensive strategy places the best defensive player in free motion to shadow the best offensive player, but the remaining four defenders position themselves in a diamond shape to guard spots on the floor.

Dime - Another word for an assist.

Double Double - When a player has ten in two categories. Usually Points and Assists or Points and rebound, but could apply to points, rebounds, assists, steals, or blocks.

Double Dribble - When a player dribbles with both hands, or touches the ball with the opposite hand while dribbling.

Double Foul - When two players foul at the same time. A very rare call.

Double Screen - When two defenders set a screen next to each other or at the same time in close proximity.

Double Team - When two players guard or trap a single offensive player.

Down Screen - When a player comes from the top of the arc of the key and sets a screen at the lower end of the court (closer to the hoop).

Dribbling - When a player bounces the ball onto the floor with one hand. Players can switch hands as often as they want, but as soon as they touch the ball with two hands they must give up their dribble and either pass or shoot. Players can only take two steps after picking up their dribble.

Drive - When a player is moving fast with the ball toward the hoop.

Drop Step - When a player takes a step back, usually from the low post, and then fades to the side to shoot an open shot.

Dunk - When a player puts the ball in the hoop by leaping up high enough to drop the ball in and touch or grab the rim. Dunk can be completed with one or two hands. Other dunk terms include: Throw down, slam, slam dunk, pack it, jam, stuff, and many more.

Elbow - The elbow is the spot on the court where the top of the free-throw line meets the lane or key.

Euro Step - A move popularized by European players that involves taking a big step in one direction and then crossing to the other direction in one motion for a basket. This is an advanced move that if executed properly can be very effective. Some players with less skill will often get called for traveling on this play.

Fadeaway - When a player falls back as they are shooting.

Fast break - When an offensive team transitions from defense to offense very fast, pushing the ball up the floor as quickly as possible.

Field Goal - Any shot made except for a free throw.

Finger Roll - When a player rolls the ball off of their finger to score.

Flagrant Foul - When a player uses excessive contact to foul someone the referee can call a flagrant foul. Refs will rule a flagrant anytime a foul does not appear to make an attempt at the ball, or places a player in unnecessary risk for injury.

Flex Cut - A cross screen that involves players cutting away from the basketball to a spot around the perimeter.

Floater - A shot wear the shooter allows the ball to roll with a high arc to avoid tall defenders in the paint.

Flop - When a player makes excessive movement after being touched in order to draw a foul.

Foul - Any time a player violates the rules by making illegal contact.

Foul Line - Another term for the Free-Throw line.

Foul Shot - Another term for Free-Throw

Four-Point Play - When a player is fouled on a three-point shot, if the shot goes in they are awarded a single free-throw, thus being able to complete a four-point play.

Free Throw Line Extended - An imaginary line that extends beyond the free-throw line and to the sideline.

Front Court - A reference to the guards on the team

Full Court Press - When a team plays pressure defense over the area of the entire court.

Give and Go - When a player makes a pass, then cuts to the hoop and receives a pass from the teammate he just passed to.

Goal Tending - When a player blocks a shot from going in the hoop as it is on its way down. This usually occurs high above the rim and defenders must be very athletic to do it.

Grinnell Offense - An offense popularized by Dave Arseneault at Grinnell College where the player must shoot in 7 seconds or less and usually does not play very hard on defense.

Hack - Another word for a foul.

Hesitation Dribble - When a player slows their pace with the ball, then moves quickly to fake out their opponent.

Hook Shot - A rarely used shot in modern basketball where a player uses one hand to find the ball into the hoop in a hooking, one-handed motion.

Hoop - Another term for the basket.

Illegal Screen - When a place sets a screen and is either moving or using too much arm, elbow, or hand to keep the offensive player from moving.

Intentional Foul - When a player fouls without attempting to touch the ball.

Isolation - When a player with the ball holds possession and uses one-on-one moves to beat his defender.

Jab Step - When a player in a triple threat position uses his pivot foot to make a ball fake.

Jump Ball - When an official stands in the middle of the court at the beginning of the game and throws the ball in the air for the two centers to try and tip it first. This can also be used in certain rules for jump ball calls where possession cannot be determined.

Jump Shot - Any shot taken while jumping. Early basketball players (1950s and earlier) often shot without leaving the ground.

Jump Stop - When a player lands on two feet in a triple threat position.

Key - The rectangular area that stretches from the baseline to the free-throw line and covers 12 feet across and 15 feet from the hoop.

Lane Violation - When a player moves into the key too early when a free-throw is being performed, or when the shooter steps over the free-throw line.

Lay-up - any shot that takes place two feet from the basket.

Man-to-Man Defense - When one player guards another specific player it is called man-to-man defense.

Mismatch - When a player with a significant advantage is guarding a smaller or slower player it is considered a mismatch.

Moving Screen - When a player sets a screen but does not maintain position or moves in front of the offensive player without establishing position it is considered a moving screen.

No Look Pass - When a player passes to a teammate without looking.

Offense - The team with the ball.

Officials - The men or women who carry a whistle and call fouls, award time-outs, assure rosters are set before the game, and maintain order during the game.

Outlet Pass - When a rebounder makes a long pass down the court to start a fast break.

Overhead Pass - When a player makes a two-handed pass above his head.

Overtime - The period of play that results from a tie game after regulation. Usually a five-minute extra period.

Over-and-Back Violation - When an offensive player crosses half-court then returns over the half-court line.

Paint - Another term for the key.

Palming - When a player is able to hold onto the ball with one hand and keep it there. Players must have large hands to do this.

Pass Fake - When a player fakes a pass with the ball and then brings it back into triple threat position.

Passing Lane - The area of space where the ball handler would likely pass the ball.

Penetration - When a player drives fast to the hoop, or dribbles into a team’s defense to collapse it and get other players open.

Pick - Another term for screen.

Pick-and-Pop - When a player screens for another player and pops back out to the perimeter to shoot an outside shot.

Pick-and-Roll - When a player screens for another player and drives to the hoop for a pass.

Pivot Foot - The foot that a player with possession of the ball can move around before or after dribbling.

Playmaker - A player who creates shots for others or drives and makes plays that get others involved and result in baskets.

Point Guard - Also known as the 1, the point guard brings the ball down, usually calls plays, and handles the ball the majority of the time.

Playmaker - A player is referred to as a 'playmaker' when they have the ability to create open shots for their teammates or give them an advantage on offense to score. Usually the point guard.

Point Guard - Also known as the '1'. One of the five positions on the court. The point guard is usually tasked with dribbling the basketball up the court, initiating the offense, and controlling the tempo of the game.

Post - The 4 or 5 position. Posts play down low and are counted on for rebounds and post offense.

Power Forward - The 4 position. This player is counted on to stay down low, post up, set screens, and get rebounds.

Press - When a team plays tough defense along the entire length of the court.

Pump fake - When a player makes a ball fake for a shot, but does not shoot.

Put Back - When a player grabs a rebound and puts a shot right back up.

Quadruple-Double - When a player gets double digits in four different categories. This is very rare, but has happened several times in the NBA.

Rebound - When a player grabs a missed shot before it hits the ground.

Referee - Another word for Official

Restricted Area - The small segment of lines about four feet out of the hoop where players cannot be called for a charge.

Shot Clock - The clock that begins as soon as a team has possession of the ball. Shot clocks vary from 45 to 24 seconds and some states do not have a shot clock at all.

Screen - When a player places their body in a stationary position blocks their teammate’s defender and creates space for the teammate to get an open shot.

Scrimmage - When a team uses ten of their own players to play against each other in a game-like situation.

Shooting Guard - The 2 position is the position most often utilized as a shooter and scorer. This position usually moves around the perimeter and takes shots from the outside.

Shooting Range - This is the distance from which a player can shoot a shot with proper form.

Sideline - The longer sides of the court that usually measure 84 or 94 feet. Anytime the ball touches the sideline it is considered out of bounds.

Sixth Man - The first player off the bench.

Small Forward - The 3. The most versatile player on the floor. This player can guard multiple positions and is expected to do a little bit of everything.

Spacing - When players keep enough space between each other to prevent making themselves too easy to guard.

Square up - When a player positions their feet properly in front of the basket to attempt a shot.

Steal - When a defensive player takes the ball away from the offense without committing a foul.

Substitution - When a player comes off the bench to replace a player on the floor.

Swish - When a shot goes into the hoop without touching the rim itself.

Switch - When a player switches from guarding one person to another in the midst of a play.

Tear Drop - A shot where a player puts the ball up high at close range.

Technical Foul - When a player commits an act such as yelling, swearing, or being physically demonstrative in a disrespectful way. Technicals can also be given when certain rules are broken, like having too many players on the floor.

Three-Pointer - Any shot that is scored from behind the three-point arc.

Three-Point-Play - When a player scores a two but fouls and makes their free throw.

Timeout - When a team calls a time-out, the clock is stopped for 30 seconds to two minutes.

Tip-Off - When the game begins with a jump ball, another word for this is the tip-off.

Trailer - The offensive player that comes from behind the person with the ball is the trailer.

Transition - When a team moves from offense to defense or defense to offense they are in transition.

Trap - Another term for a double team.

Travel - When a player takes too many steps (more than two) after picking up their dribble.

Triangle Offense - An offense popularized by Phil Jackson and the Michael Jordan-led Chicago Bulls that involves continuous movement and players forming a triangular shape while utilizing the high post area.

Triple Double - When a player has a value of ten in three different categories. Usually points, rebounds, and assists.

Turnover - When a player loses possession of the ball by getting it stolen or throwing it away.

Up-and-Under - When a player uses a ball fake to get his defender off the ground, then goes under the defender’s outstretched arms to make a lay-up.

V-Cut - When a player cuts by making a sharp turn in one direction and then changing direction again with a swift cut in the path of a V.

Violation - Any play where a team has possession taken away but does not involve a common foul.

Weak Side - The side that is opposite of the side with possession of the ball.

Wing - Wing players are usually 2s and 3s. They spend the majority of their time on the perimeter and around the three-point line.

Zone - A defense where players guard spots along the floor as opposed to specific players.

basketball terms & terminology

Helpful Advice On Creating A Term Paper About Basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular games of the world and there are several people who choose the game as a profession. If you have been a student of the game, it is almost certain that you will have to write a term paper on the game in a short while. If that is what you are already tasked with, you are at the right place. We will analyze for you, a step by step method of creating a successful paper on basketball.

Know the game

If you have scant idea of the game of basketball, there are high chances that you will not be able to create a successful research paper on the subject. In fact, some researchers also emphasize on the need for researchers to play and practice the game before making an attempt at creating a term paper on basketball.

Here are the major benefits of getting to shoot a few baskets before composing the research paper:

The researchers gets to know all major and minor rules of the game
You will have a better idea of the endurance required in the game
Researchers develop better understanding of strategic planning
Composing after playing will allow you to advise young players

Contact some professional players

One of the best ways to gather more and more useful insights about the game is to contact some professional players of the game. These players are through with every bit and nook and cranny of the basketball court and will help you gain a better idea on the court. This will, in turn, help you create a better term paper on basketball.

There are several examples of researchers who have interviewed former or participating basketball players from the NBA and noted the number of matches they have played and the key areas of the court from where they try and shoot the baskets.

Read previous works

The best way to go about writing any research paper on the game is to make a habit of reading earlier term papers written by former researchers and players of the game. In order to draw full insight on the game, it is paramount that you go through works of formers researchers as well as those of the greats in the game.

Going through former research and term papers on basketball will not only help you know more on game, but also give you better knowledge on the structure of the paper itself.

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BASKETBALL GLOSSARY

Here you will find the definitions for all sorts of terms and stats heard within the sport of basketball. more basic terminology is defined in addition to some higher-level basketball phrases or expressions. this way, fans of all levels can reference this page when needed. *you might be best off to control-f/command-f to find the term you are looking for*, join the patreon for exclusive player profiles & additional perks, become a patron, +/- - applied to a single player, this is exactly how their team fared in terms of points for (+) versus points against (-) when that specific player was on the floor. if the team scored more than they gave up when this individual was playing, the value for this statistic will be a positive number, and vice-versa., 1 - numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the point guard position., 2 - numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the shooting guard position., 3 - numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the small forward position., 3-second violation - a violation that can occur in distinct ways for both the offense and the defense respectively. on offense, it takes place when a player has at least one foot in the paint for 3 seconds or longer. on defense, it takes place when a player has at least one foot in the paint for 3 seconds or longer and is not within arm's reach of his/her counterpart., 4 - numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the power forward position., 45 cut - when a player moves from the wing into the paint without the ball in their hands., 4-out-1-in - an offensive setup/configuration involving 4 players set up initially outside the three-point line, with one player, usually a big, waiting in the dunker spot (see: dunker spot ) or somewhere else around the interior., 5 - numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the center position., 5 x 5 - a rare statistical accomplishment where a player records 5+ in each category - points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks, 5-out - an offensive setup/configuration where all 5 offensive players start beyond the three-point line. this works most optimally when all 5 players are capable shooters/ball-movers. it is an alignment that is conducive to good spacing and can create wide driving lanes., 5-second violation - when inbounding the ball, a player has only 5 seconds to pass it from the time the referee begins counting. exceeding this time allotment regards in a turnover., 50-50 ball - when the basketball is either on the ground or bouncing around and no player has possession yet, but typically two opposing players are close to it and will fight to get it. they theoretically both have a 50% chance of securing it., 8-second violation - from the time an offensive player touches the inbounds pass in the backcourt, they have 8 seconds to cross the threshold of the half-court line or the "time line". exceeding 8 seconds results in a turnover., airball - when a player takes a shot and the ball does not make contact with anything. no rim or backboard is grazed when an air ball is shot., alley-oop - when two teammates connect for a two-point score involving a passer throwing the ball up and the receiver catching and dunking it in mid-air., and-one - when a player gets fouled but still manages to score the basketball in the process. they score "and" they get "one" shot at the free-throw line for an additional point., angle - a type of play/set where players organize a pick-and-roll a few feet either left or right of the midline - also known as the slot or wing areas., assist - when a player passes the ball to their teammate and they score it within seconds/with minimal dribbling of the basketball., assist-to-turnover ratio (ast/to) - a stat that is framed to show how good a playmaker a player is. the simple formula is assists divided by turnovers. generally, being above 2 at the nba level is respectable, but being around 3 or even 4 is where elite facilitators often land., ato - a set of plays used by a coach directly following a timeout where they have the possession and will be inbounding the basketball., backcourt - the "defending zone" from an offensive perspective. this is the half of the court where their own basket lies, opposite to the side they are trying to score., backdoor cut - when a player who does not have the ball in their hands darts in behind their defender to the basket in hopes of receiving a pass., back screen - when a player sets a screen on an opponent to free up their moving teammate. the screener faces half-court and looks to prevent the teammate's defender from moving down past them to defend going towards the basket, which is where the offensive player is headed., back-tap - a steal type where a player gets beat off the dribble and is pursuing from behind. lunging to poke the ball from behind their man, often reaching around them to do so, is what characterizes this steal type., ball-handler - the player who is dribbling the ball at a given time. in a pick-and-roll context, this is a common term for the player initiating the action., bank shot - when a player shoots intentionally off of the backboard with desires of scoring in this fashion. many players aim for the upper near corner of the painted square situated above the rim., baseline - the two lines on the court that run behind the basket on either end, marking the end of the legal area and the beginning of the out of bounds space. these lines run parallel to the free-throw line and the half-court line., baseline cut - when a player dashes along the end-line of the court without the ball, moving towards the basket while looking to receive a pass or otherwise cause defensive movement/miscommunication., basket cut - when a player who does not have the ball in their hands moves themselves towards the basket on a linear path., big - a term used to describe centers and power forwards, typically the two largest players on the court for a team at a given time. in the increasingly positionless nba, "bigs" are one of the three main buckets for player categorization along with "guards"/"ball-handlers" and "wings"/"forwards"., blind pig - an action that involves one of the team's big men to flash up to the elbow area. the ball is then fed to them, and at the same time the off-ball perimeter player closest to this big promptly cuts towards the basket. the big will look for this cutter and ideally will result in a look in the paint., blitz/trap - a pick-and-roll defensive coverage that involves the two defenders swarming/cutting off the opposing ball-handler in an attempt to force a steal or simply get the ball out of their hands., block - when a defensive player swats an opponent's shot attempt away from the basket as they had attempted to score. a second important definition for this term in basketball is its reference to the area at the edge of the key, close to the basket, often referred to as the "low block". this is a common area for deep seals/post-ups., blob - a category of plays for a coach to pull from that are utilized in situations where the team is inbounding from the baseline., bonus - a team has five total team fouls available to them per quarter before arriving at the penalty. this places the other team in "the bonus", meaning that every subsequent defensive foul committed until the end of the quarter will yield two free-throws for the offensive team., bounce pass - a type of pass that a player can make to their teammate involving usually a single bounce off the court before it arrives at the intended player., box-out - a rebounding technique/principle whereby a player bodies up an opponent (often their direct matchup/assignment) and tries to keep them behind their own body - keeping themselves in between the basket and the opponent. boxing in is another tactic, where a player forcibly moves their opponent under the rim to neutralize their ability to rebound in this way., broken play - also known as a scramble, this is off a turnover or offensive rebound for instance. players are often not matched up, leading to easy or wide open shots for the team with the ball., catch-and-shoot - a type of basketball jump shot where a player can shoot it right after it hits their hands from a pass. no dribbles are taken between their catch and when they begin to rise up for the shot., charge - when a defensive player stands their ground in a legal guarding position and their counterpart runs them over/fouls them in some way. drawing charges strategically is an unconventional form of rim protection, as it can functionally do the same thing (deter attackers/deny would-be baskets)., charge circle/restricted area - the small semi-circle underneath the rim. this is a reference point for players' interior shooting percentages. also, it is an area where defenders cannot attempt to draw a charge., chest pass - a type of pass that is delivered from the chest area of the passer and it meant to crisply hit the target's chest area so they do not have to interrupt their flow/motion by reaching for the ball., chicago action - a play that entails an off-ball player to come off a pindown then immediately receive a dribble handoff. they can then pull up and shoot or look to attack the basket with space., closeout - when an off-ball defender moves towards a perimeter player who has just gotten the ball passed to them. against talented shooters, players should close out tightly or near to their bodies, while you can close out "short" against non-shooters, leaving them space and protecting against the drive., clutch - a time during the game, typically the last couple minutes of a close matchup. it is also a trait applied to players who regularly perform well in the pressurized situation down the stretch of a close game., combo guard - a designation for a player who can capably play either guard or "backcourt" spot. they can toggle between predominately playing point guard or shooting guard game-to-game or even possession-to-possession., corner - there is both the short corner and the deep corner. the short corner is along either baseline, around midway between the paint and the three-point line. it is a common area to initiate post-up sequences or even set up an off-ball screen. the deep corner is the actual corner of the legal area of the court - this is where "corner threes" are taken, the shortest of the possible three-point shot areas., cross-over - a dribble move where a player sharply pushes the ball from one hand to the other, taking one bounce in between., dead-ball turnover - a turnover type where the referee blows the whistle and the opposing team gets to inbound the ball. examples include an offensive three-second violation, a travel, or an offensive foul. as a general rule, coaches prefer these out of the two main turnover types (live-ball and dead-ball) as there is no transition opportunity and they can set up their half-court defense., deep seal - when a player, often in semi-transition/delayed break scenarios, runs towards the basket and looks to pin their opponent behind them. the offensive player wants the ball for a quick post-up or just a hard spin into a dunk/layup if they are close enough., defensive foul - a found, committable in a number of ways, that sends the offensive player to the free-throw line or allows them to inbound the ball. they can be pushed off-ball, have their arm slapped in mid-air on a shot attempt, forcefully dislodge a screen-setter, or a number of other things., deflection - any time a defender gets even a fingertip on an opposing dribble or pass, this is considered a "deflection". the nba has begun to track deflections., deny - a type of off-ball defense, usually done against threatening opponents, where the defender attempts to disallow the passer to even get the ball to their defensive assignment., dig - a form of pseudo-double team where an off-ball defender slaps down or takes a "dig" at an offensive player in hopes of jarring the ball lose., double-double - a statistical accomplishment where a player achieves a double digit amount of two statistical categories (i.e. points and rebounds, points and assists)., double team - when a defense sends two people to one opponent in hopes of discombobulating them, forcing a turnover, or simply making them pass to a less dangerous teammate. this defense is saved for star players usually., drag screen - a quick ball screen that takes place in transition/semi-transition as the team looks to get the ball-handler going downhill with a quick advantage-builder., dribble - the simple act of bouncing the basketball from one's hand to the court. this is the only way to legally move around the court during the game., dribble handoff - a simple play type that can be highly nuanced, the dribble handoff usually involves a big handing the ball off to a perimeter player as they curl tightly around the big. the recipient can shoot, pass, or drive to the basket with their defender stuck behind them due to the handoff or "dho"., drift - when a player away from the ball moves themselves from the wing area behind the 3pt line to the deep corner. this is usually done as a teammate drives to the basket, creating a easier, more straightforward passing angle for them to kick it out for three., drive - when a player with the basketball takes an angle to move towards the basket. they are looking to either score the basketball in close, draw a shooting foul for free-throws, or pass the ball to a teammate as defenders are drawn to them as the driver., drive-and-kick - when a player with the basketball takes an angle to move towards the basket, attracts additional defenders, and throws the ball out to a teammate away from the hoop., drop - a common style of pick-and-roll defensive coverage. it is characterized by placing the defensive big man closer to the paint to stop drives. what this leaves open is the pull-up jumper for the opposing ball-handler, so it is typically done when they are a better driver than shooter. there is also the "deep drop" which is where the defensive big is set very close to the basket, around the paint, to really deter layups/dunks., dunk - the most efficient shot type in basketball, and the arguably the most highlight-friendly one. it can be done one-handed or two-handed, and involves slamming the ball down through the basket with the player's hands right atop the rim., dunker spot - a spot right around the edge of the paint (at either side) down towards the baseline. it is a spot to place your big on offense so that, if given the ball, they can take one quick dribble and look to dunk the basketball., elbow - an area on the court near the upper corner of the key (at either side), in between the wing part of the three-point line and upper paint corner., entry pass - a pass that a perimeter player makes to feed the ball in to their teammate who is posted up. a "high-low" pass is a version of this where a player up high (closer to half-court) makes a quick pass down low (closer to the basket) for a teammate who has pinned their defender in a suboptimal position., eog - a set of plays used by a coach during end-of-game scenarios., eurostep - a form of the 1-2 steps one is allowed on layups and floaters that was popularized in the euroleague. typically, it begins with one step in a certain direction followed by a second exaggerated step in the opposite direction, covering multiple feet laterally to evade rim-protecting defenders., extras pass - when defenders are in rotation already and the offensive player catches the ball with a decent shot, but opts to make the logical next pass in the flow of the offense to give their teammate an even higher percentage/more open look. this is also called the "next pass" or the "one more"., face cut - when a player who does not have the ball in their hands darts in front of their defender to the basket in hopes of receiving a pass. since a defender is likelier to see this and alertly stay connected as opposed to a backdoor cut, offensive players often set it up by faking/juking like they are going backdoor before blasting in front., fadeaway - a jump shot in which the player is gliding or "fading" away from their defender in order to gain greater in-air separation for a cleaner shot at the basket., fast break - when a possession changes hands quickly and the offensive team has an advantageous scenario in the open court. also known as transition, these typically are sourced from steals or blocks that have been kept in bounds. transition offense is virtually always more efficient than half-court play., field goals - a way to refer to any shot taken during the course of a basketball game (not including free-throws). common phrases are "field goals made", which mean shots made, and "field goals attempted" which means shots attempted., field goal percentage (fg%) - a simple equation of field goals made divided by field goals attempted. in the nba, league average tends to be around the mid-40%'s for a given season., flagrant foul - when a player commits a foul that involves unnessacry and/or excessive contact with the other player. a "flagrant 1" involves two free-throws and the ball back to the fouled player's team. a "flagrant 2", deemed even more excessive/unnecessary/dangerous, sees the fouler get ejected from the game immediately, with the same things being given to the offensive player., flash - when a player moves into an open pocket of space on the court in hopes of receiving the ball to make a play. against a zone defense, players often "flash" to the defensive soft spot in the middle of the floor., floater - a high-arching shot type typically done in the key within a couple feet of it. the ball is softly shot with one-hand, off of either one foot or both, tossed up high to avoid tall defenders' hands., free-throw - a shot taken at the free-throw line, worth 1 point, that is awarded to a player when a team has fouled them or some other violation. a player cannot jump on this shot, and they have a free shot at the basket with nobody there to defend them. a player fouled while shooting a two-pointer gets two fouls, while a player fouled shooting a three-pointer gets three. if the player makes the shot anyways in either case, they get just one additional free-throw., free-throw percentage (ft%) - conversion rate looking at how many free throws a player makes as compared to how many they take. the best of the best in the nba will shoot in the upper-80%'s or even the low-to-mid 90%'s., frontcourt - the "attacking zone" from an offensive perspective. this is the half of the court where they are trying to score the basketball., gap - when a defender "gaps" an opponent, they are giving them a cushion of space so that they are in a better position to stop any drive attempt. this is only done against players who are not especially threatening as jump shooters., garbage time - the latter portion of a game that is considered a "blow-out" (when one team has a significant, virtually insurmountable lead over the other). in garbage time, both coaches tend to use this time to see how younger players will perform, while ensuring that higher-level players do not suffer an injury., gather step - the step taken as a player brings the ball from their dribble to their hands to initiate a 1-2 step. their are strategic ways to gather such as the "overhead" or "windmill" gather where a player swing the ball over their head to the opposite side of their body while they attack., guard - a position bucket comprised of point guards and shooting guards. these tend to be the shortest players on the court. guards usually have the ball in their hands the most, are the best at shooting and passing, and will bring the ball up the court and initiate the offensive set.however, positional lines, expectations, and responsibilities have become blurred today compared to when basketball first became popular., half court - there is the line delineating the halfway point on the basketball court, but "half-court" offense is the offense ran most often. this takes place with all 10 players on one side of the court, running things like pick-and-rolls and post-ups to try and score., hammer screen - a form of away-from-the-ball screen where a player screens to free up a shooter either stationed in the deep corner or drifting there as a teammate collapses the defense on their drive. this screen type is often used when the team is focusing specifically on getting a corner 3pt shot off., hedge/show - a pick-and-roll defensive technique where the roller's defender creeps up toward the half-court line and faces the sideline so that the ball-handler must take another beat to get around them, slowing the attack. the hedging player must hurry to recover to their initial matchup (or otherwise rotate appropriately) so that the offense does not get an extended advantage scenario., help defense - put simply, this is when a defender moves to aid another defender after their opponent got past them. a very common "help" instance is when a slasher zips past their initial defender and another player must help them out by moving themselves between the basket and this attacker., hesi - when a player with the ball hesitates momentarily, simulating a jump shot or simply a kill of the dribble. as long as they keep their dribble alive, the defender may lunge to contest what they thought to be a shot. this allows the ball-handler to resume their dribble, scooting right by towards the basket., high post - an area on the floor where dribble handoffs are started and where the ball can generally get fed to the big to initiate some offense. it is around the free-throw line and at the elbows (see: elbow )., hockey assist/secondary assist - when a player passes the ball to a teammate then that teammate quickly moves it again to another who scores the basketball. this is an interesting stat that can be telling because often times the initial player does the difficult work of penetrating the defense before passing it out to more open players., hook shot - a one-handed shot type, often taken out of a post-up, involving the player hooking it over their head and towards the basket., ice - a form of angle or side pick-and-roll defense where defenders push the player with the ball towards the sideline rather than allowing them to get to the middle of the floor (where the offensive player has greater optionality/is more dangerous). both the defensive guard/forward and the big must be working in concert to angle their bodies correctly to funnel the ball away from the basket like this., in-and-out dribble - a one-handed dribble move where a player fakes that they are transferring the ball to their other hand to move the defender in that direction, then rotates their wrist back to keep it on their hand-side and attack that angle., "in jail" - when the ball-handler in the pick-and-roll gets their defender's body behind them and forcibly maintains that wedge as they look to attack the basket unimpeded., inverted pick-and-roll - with a traditional pick-and-roll involving the guard or "small" as the handler and the big setting the screen, an inverted pick-and-roll is when these roles are reversed. this is reserved for highly skilled offensive bigs., isolation - in the half-court, when a player is given the ball to try and manufacture points by themselves and without the use of a ball screen., jump ball - when done at center court, this marks the beginning of a game, or overtime, or certain in-game instances. the referee throws the ball straight up between two opponents and whoever taps it to a teammate "wins" the possession for their squad. a referee can also call a jump ball when two players are tangled up and have seemingly equal possession of the ball as they jostle. these jump balls are done at the free-throw line semi-circle rather than at center. "tip-off" and "tip" are synonyms for jump ball., jump shot - an extremely common basketball shot that involves the player leaving their feet to shoot the ball towards the basket at any given distance., layup - a two-point shot attempt that is taken right near the basket, necessitating a different form than a jump shot. the technique of a moving layup is to take two steps with the ball in one's hands and release it with one to score (either off the glass or not). there is also the stationary "standing layup" or "standstill layup"., leak out -when, as soon as a possession changes hands, a player sprints towards the opposite basket in hopes of receiving a long pass into a quick score., lift - when a player away from the ball moves themselves from the corner area behind the 3pt line to the wing/slot area. this is usually done as a teammate drives to the basket, with the shooter hoping to catch their defender being inattentive or ball-watching rather than tracking their own movement., live-ball turnover - when possession of the basketball changes hands during live action. examples of live-ball turnovers include throwing an errant pass that is intercepted or getting the ball stripped from you while dribbling. as a general rule, coaches dislike these turnover types the most as they often lead to easy points for the other team., lob - a type of pass that is lofted high in the air so that a teammate can catch it and either dunk it or lay it in while in the air., loose ball recovered - a newer statistical category, analyzed on both offense and defense, where a player gains control of a ball that is temporarily not in anyone's possession., low man - the player who is guarding the opposite side shooter on defense. in nearly all schemes, is their responsibility to slide to the basket and provide resistance against a player who has beaten a defender(s) and is on their way to an easy basket., low post - a common area of "post-ups" to take place, the low post is around where the corner of the key (closest to the basket) meets the baseline., man-to-man - the most ubiquitous defensive team style in the nba. each of the five players are assigned to a specified opponent respectively at the outset of a possession (and often at the outset of a game). switching on a ball screen/dribble handoff or finding a body in transition are times where one's pre-determined assignment is put aside, but for the most part players will aim to defend primarily their matchup in a man-to-man system., measurables - a term that refers to a given player's physical tools that are relevant to basketball. prime examples are height, weight, wingspan, standing reach, hand width, and hand length., mid post - a common area of "post-ups" to take place, the mid post is around the edge of the middle of the paint., midrange shot - a two-point shot taken inside of the three-point line but beyond the parameters of the painted area., nail - a defensive area in the half-court around the middle of the free-throw line and encompasses the surrounding few feet. it is an area that a player can be placed to provide help from, namely to shrink would-be driving lanes for players slashing from the top., non-shooting foul - a defensive foul, such as pushing a player who is simply dribbling or does not have the ball at all, that results in an inbounds. since no shot was being attempted, no free-throws are provided. these are also called fouls "on the floor"., odd man rush - a transition sequence where the offense has a "player advantage" situation. more of their own players are involved in this open court sequence than those of the opponent. it could be a 3-on-2 or a 2-on-1 for example., off-ball - on offense, when a player does not have the ball they are considered to be "off-ball". on defense, when a player is defending someone who does not have the ball, they are considered to be "off-ball"., off-ball screen - when a player sets a screen for a teammate who does not have the ball at that moment. it is usually designed to free them from their defender so that they can catch the ball primed to score., off-the-dribble - when a player shoots straight from their dribble rather than right after receiving a pass. a player can also attack his opponent off-the-dribble, using moves to get by them., offensive foul - a foul committed by a player on the team with the ball, resulting in a turnover. common examples are illegal screens and over-aggressive contact on their way to the basket., on-ball - on offense, when a player has the ball they are considered to be "on-ball". on defense, when a player is defending the person that has the ball, they are considered to be defending "on-ball"., on-ball screen - when a player sets a screen for a teammate who does have the ball at that moment. a pick-and-roll, pick-and-pop, or n intentionally forced switch are the most common things to come out of this., outlet - a pass thrown ahead to a teammate who is running towards the basket in the open court., over - when the ball-handler's defender goes around or "over top" the screen-setter to try and stick with the opponent the whole way. this is done consistently against the game's best pull-up jump shooters., paint - the painted area near the basket on the court. also known as the "lane" and the "key"., paint points/pitp - a way of tracking how frequent a player (or a team) is scoring the ball on the interior. athletic drivers, big forwards, and centers tend to be at the top of the per-game leaderboards for this., per-36 - a way of framing a player's statistics so that players can be compared on an identical minutes basis of 36 per game. players' stats are usually extrapolated up to reach the 36 minute plateau, but players that play north of this on average experience their numbers being ratcheted down for the sake of this comparison., pick-and-pop - a play where typically a big comes to put their body in the way of his on-ball teammate's defender. they will then proceed to move into open space along the perimeter to pull their defender out and/or be ready for a quick jump shot if given the pass., pick-and-roll - a play where typically a big comes to put their body in the way of his on-ball teammate's defender. then, they run straight for the basket to put pressure on the defense. this is the most commonly-used play in modern nba basketabll., pick-six - this football-borrowed term refers to when a player steals the ball and gets to go one-on-none to the basket for an extrmeely high-percentage open layup/dunk., pinch - when defenders move in towards a gap/crease in the defense so that a lane is shrunk and thus less likely that a certain player with the ball will exploit it., pindown - this is all down away from the ball. a player sets a screen with their chest facing the baseline and a teammate runs around it heading up high to receive the ball., pitch-ahead - synonymous with outlet, this is when a player passes the ball ahead to get it quickly up the court in hopes of creating an easy look., pivot - a player's "pivot" or "pivot foot" is the one he/she has established as the one that must remain where it is on the ground to avoid travelling., pocket pass - a pass from ball-handler to diving player in the "pocket" between the small defender and the big one. very common pass in pick-and-roll to get the ball to the big man at a good time., point of attack - the type of defense/defensive area on the perimeter against guard/forward isolations and pick-and-roll. good "point of attack" defenders are agile, strong, persistent, and know how to maneauvers ball screens effectively., possession - when a team has the ball. they must fully be in control of it in order for them to "have possession"., post-up - when a player gets the ball with his/her back to the basket. they can dribble in further, turn to "face-up" towards the basket, or simply use this vantage point to scan the floor for possible passing opportunities., power dribble - the one hard dribble that a player takes to gather themselves and get on balance before powering up for a finish in the inside., press - when players get physical/get into offensive players to try to make them uncomfortable, tire them out, use up clock, and/or force turnovers. a team can employ a full-court press for example ,which involves doing this for the entire 94-feet of the court., pump fake - when a player simulates going up to shoot the ball but does not leave their feet. this pretending can entice defenders to "bite" or "jump" at this fake, fouling the offensive player. if f the offensive player has yet to use their dribble, they can pump fake and then drive by once the player as jumped at them., push shot - like a floater, this is when a player pushes the ball towards the basket from close-range, with their hand under/behind the ball., putback - when a player grabs the rebound from his teammate's miss, then puts the ball back in the net to score himself., re-locate - when an off-ball offensive player does not just stand still but rather moves into better space as a play unfolds in front of them., rearview contest - when a defensive player gets around a screen or handoff to stick their hand out and bother the shooter from a side/behind them angle., rebound when a shot goes up and a player collects the ricochet off the rim or backboard after that shot has missed. catching an airball directly also counts at s a rebound at most levels., reject - when a ball-handler in the pick-and-roll opts to attack opposite the way that the screener has set them up to. this is also called "not using the screen". perimeter defenders often position their bodies to get around the screen based on which sideline the screener is facing as they set up. if a defender's body is too far angled in one direction, cagey ball-handlers will attack the opposite direction to catch them off guard., reverse layup - when a player leaps up on one side of the rim but finishes on the other side so as to avoid defenders., rim protection - the attribute of being able to block, alter, and altogether deter shots around the basket. usually centers and power forwards are the ones to have this trait., rip-through - when a player has the ball in a stationary position then swings it from one side of their body to the other and often launches themselves on an attack right after., roll man/roller/dive man - the player (usually big) who sets the ball screen then runs towards the rim to attract defenders and/or receive the ball en route the the hoop., rotation - similar to some other terms here, this is a multi-meaning basketball word. a defensive rotation is when a player moves to the proper place in response to a developing opponent's play. for instance, when a player begins to drive unimpeded to the basket, most teams will send the defender guarding the opposite corner to "rotate" down to the basket to stymy the interior shot attempt. the other most common "rotation" refers to the group of players, often ranging from 8-11, that a coach will use during the course of most games., sag - playing off of a certain player because they do not pose a big threat as a shooter., same-foot finish - when a player jumps off the same foot that they shoot a layup with (normally it is the foot opposite the shooting hand)., screen assist - when a player sets a screen and the player that they screened for scores shortly thereafter., second-chance points - any points that take place after the inital shot was missed and rebounded by teh same team., semi-transition - when a turnover is forced and the team is now going the other way wth intention to score, but the floor isn't heavily imbalanced as the defense begins to get back. these can still be fruitful offensive possessions, typically begetting higher quality shots than a straight half-court possession. this is also referred to as a "delayed break" scenario., shoot - the simple act of attempting to score the basketball., shoot the gap - when chasing a player around screens away from the ball or even on-ball, when a player takes a different, seemingly quicker, route rather than right behind the player this is "shooting the gap"., shooting foul - a defensive foul committed against a player as they are going up to shoot the ball. they earn free-throws out of this., short roll - when a player sets an on-ball screen then rolls only a few steps before stopping around the middle/edge of the paint to make another decision based on how the defense is playing., shot contest - when a player attempts to block or bother a shot by sticking one or both arms up around where the opponent is shooting., shotclock - at the nba level it is 24 seconds long. this is how long a team has to relase a shot up. it begins counting down off the inbounds once a player has touched it., sideline - when looking at the court from the classic tv broadcast angle, it is the long top and bottom lines that run perpendicular to the half-court line and the baseline., side screen-and-roll - a pick-and-roll that takes place on either side of the court rather than up top/on that slight angle (see: pick-and-roll )., skip pass - when the ball-handler reads defenders moving in to them and makes the tough pass to the corner opposite them for what is often a wide open corner three-ball., slot - the perimeter area around where the three-point line starts curving closes to where it straightens out around the corner., slip/ghost - when a player quickly gets out of a screen rather than stopping to set it. this can force movement by defenders that slipped players can quickly react to., slob - a category of plays for a coach to pull from that are utilized in situations where the team is inbounding from the sideline., snake - when the ball-handler in the pick-and-roll uses the screen to attack in one direction, then pushes the ball back across their body to swerve the other direction. players will often snake as they look to get to their spot for a midrange jumper., spacing - this term is in reference to the distance between the 5 players within the offensive unit at a given time. if players are bunched together (especially off-ball players), this is deemed suboptimal or "bad" spacing. "good" spacing is when players are spread apart enough so that their respective defenders are situated apart as well., spain action/spain p&r/stack - this increasingly popular nba action was originally created in spain, hence the terminology. it is a pick-and-roll where a third player sets a back screen on the roll man's defender (then typically pops out into space). it is a multi-layered action with several moving parts, so it can be a challenge to defend., spot-up - when a player picks a spot and awaits the pass so they can shoot it right away., spread pick-and-roll - a pick-and-roll done up high, in the middle of the floor, with the other three players spread out around the floor and ready to knock down shots should it come to them., standing reach - an nba draft combine measurement from floor to the highest point the players can reach for with their arms straight above their heads (standing still)., steals - when a defensive player collects the ball or pokes it away from an opponent and it leads to their pwn team securing it., stepback - when a player with the ball steps backward to create space and shoots a jump shot after that., step-up screen - also referred to as a flat ball-screen, a player sets a pick with their chest facing half-court at an angle that parallels it. this way, the ball-handler can pick which side to attack off of this screen - either left or right., stocks - a way to combine defensive counting stats, this is simply a player's steals + blocks., strongside - the side of the floor (as in left/right not backcourt/frontcourt) that the ball is on. for example, if a pick-and-roll is being run on the right side, this right side becomes the strongside. a synonym for strongside is "ball side"., stunt - when an off-ball defender lurches out to the ball-handler to pretend like they are coming to help, but really just move back to their own defensive assignment after this. also known as "bluff" or "stunt and recover"., swing - when the ball is moving around from player-to-player in the half-court agasint a moving defense - making that next pass to the teammate positioned near you is the swing pass., switch - whether done on or off-the-ball, this is when two defensive players swap who they are guarding with each other., tag -one defense, when a player is headed towards the basket and you move in to make contact with them and possible disturb their rhythm/thought process, then get back to your player., technical foul - a foul that can happen in a number of ways, from taunting an official to hanging on the rim too long after a dunk. a player gets two technicals before they get ejected from a game. a technical foul results in a single free-throw for the opposition - form a player of their choosing., three-pointer -a shot taken from behind the three-point line that is worth three points if it goes in., three-point percentage (3pt%) - proportion of three-pointers sunk out of the total volume that are shot for a given player. this is also a statistic used on a team level to see how the team offense fares from three overall., top-lock - an off-ball defensive technique used against talented scorers. it involves the defender keeping their body between their player and the ball up top., touch pass - when a player gets a pass and swiftly passes it over to another player, doing all of this in a split-second., transition - when a possession changes from offense to defense., trailer - the last player to enter the fray after a possession has changed hands. the trailer can be flipped back the ball for an above three of to begin facilitating offence., travel - a violation that takes place when a player takes more than the allotted two steps without dribbling the basketball. it is an immediate turnover. in the nba, a player is given a "gather step" as they pick up the basketball or transition from their dribble move to "killing their dribble", followed by two steps before the must get rid of the ball., triple-double - a statistical accomplishment where a player achieves a double digit amount of three statistical categories (i.e. points, rebounds, and assists)., triple threat - the ready-position that players are taught to start in once they catch the ball. they must consider and be ready to rapidly execute any of the three options - score, dribble, or pass., turnover - when a player loses the ball or commits a violation that results in the possession being given up to the opposing team., under - when the ball-handler's defender slides below or "underneath" the screen-setter to try and cut off the driving lane for the attacker. this is done consistently against the game's most explosive slashers., up-and-under - when a player in the post fakes like they are going up with the shot then ducks under and around teh defneder to finish on that side., verticality - the ability to stay straight up with hands to the sky as a defender contesting a shot around the basket to avoid fouling. a defender is entitled to the space within the cone of their body so a foul cannot be called it they remain like this in the face of a layup-shooter., weak - a pick-and-roll coverage where defenders force the ball-handler to the side of their non-dominant hand, or the side the prefer less., weakside - the side of the floor (as in left/right not backcourt/frontcourt) that does not have the ball currently. for example, if a pick-and-roll is being run on the right side, the left side becomes the weakside. a synonym for weakside is "second side"., wing - an area around the three point line near the has-mark of the court. it is also a positional bucket for players that play some shooting guard and small forward mostly., wingspan - the measure of a player's full armspan from tip of one middle finger, across their torso, to the tip of the other middle finger., x-out - when two perimeter players on defense recover and close out to the other's initial matchup, forming an imaginary "x" as they cross paths towards their new temporary assignment., zone - a team defense style where players are assigned to areas on the court as opposed to being directly matched up with a certain opponent. communication, defensive intelligence, awareness, and quick mental processing speeds are all necessary pillars to be a good zone defender., privacy overview.

Basketball Glossary and Terms

Understanding key basketball terms is important for fully enjoying and understanding the game. Whether you are a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, knowing the terminology will help you better follow the action on the court and understand the strategies and tactics used by players and coaches.

Basketball terms

Alley-oop: a high-scoring play in which one player lobs the ball to a teammate who jumps and slams it through the basket
And-one: a term used when a player is fouled while attempting a shot and is able to make the basket, earning an extra free throw opportunity
Assist: a pass that directly leads to a basket
Backboard: the rectangular board behind the basket that the net is attached to
Bench: the area where the players who are not currently in the game sit and wait for their turn to play
Box out: a tactic used by a defensive player to position themselves between an opposing player and the basket, with the goal of rebounding a missed shot
Charging: an offensive foul that occurs when a player with the ball runs into a defensive player who has established position
Court: the rectangular playing surface on which the game is played
Cut: a quick change of direction by a player with the ball, usually with the aim of getting open for a pass or a shot
Dribble: the act of bouncing the ball on the floor with one hand while moving
Dunk: a high-scoring play in which a player jumps and slams the ball through the basket with their hand
Fast break: a quick transition from defense to offense, with the goal of scoring before the opposing team can set up their defense
Field goal: a score awarded for successfully shooting the ball through the basket from the field of play
Field goal percentage: the number of successful field goals made divided by the total number of field goal attempts
Flagrant foul: a foul that is particularly aggressive or intentional
Full-court press: a defensive tactic in which the team applies pressure to the opposing team throughout the entire length of the court
Half-court trap: a defensive tactic in which two defenders trap a ball handler in the half-court area
High post: the area of the court near the free throw line and outside the key
Inbounds pass: a pass made from out of bounds into the court of play
Isolation: an offensive tactic in which a single player is isolated with the ball and the other players stand around and watch
Jump shot: a shot taken while jumping, typically from a distance
Key: the painted area in front of the basket that includes the free throw lane and the restricted area
Layup: a close-range shot taken by a player who is moving toward the basket
Low post: the area of the court near the basket, typically occupied by taller players who are strong at scoring in close range
Man-to-man defense: a defensive tactic in which each player is assigned to guard a specific opponent
Motion offense: an offensive tactic in which players constantly move and cut, creating passing and scoring opportunities
One and one: a term used when a player is fouled while attempting a shot and is awarded one free throw, with the opportunity to earn a second free throw if the first is made
Overhead pass: a pass made by a player while the ball is above their head
Pick and roll: an offensive play in which one player sets a screen (a "pick") for a teammate, who then "rolls" to the basket for a scoring opportunity
Pick: see "screen"
Point guard: the player on the team who is responsible for running the offense and making decisions with the ball
Post: the area of the court near the basket, typically occupied by taller players who are strong at scoring in close range
Press: a defensive tactic in which the team applies pressure to the opposing team, often near their own basket
Punch pass: a pass made with a quick, punching motion
Rebound: the act of retrieving the ball after a missed shot
Screen: a tactic used by an offensive player to block the movement of a defensive player and create space for a teammate
Set shot: a shot taken with both feet planted on the ground
Shooting guard: a perimeter player who specializes in scoring from the outside
Shot clock: a countdown timer that gives a team a certain amount of time to attempt a shot
Shot fake: a tactic used by a player with the ball to deceive a defender and create an open shot
Small forward: a perimeter player who is versatile and can score from multiple areas on the court
Steal: the act of taking the ball away from an opposing player
Strongside: the side of the court where the ball is located
Switch: a tactic used by a team on defense in which players change assignments and guard different opponents
Three-point line: the arc that surrounds the basket and marks the distance beyond which a shot made is worth three points
Tip-in: a scoring play in which a player jumps and tries to tap the ball into the basket after a missed shot
Tip-off: the method used to begin a game, in which the ball is thrown into the air and two players jump to try to tap it to a teammate
Transition: the movement of the ball and players from one end of the court to the other
Trapping defense: a defensive tactic in which two or more players work together to cut off an opposing player´s options and force a turnover
Traveling: a violation in which a player takes more than the allowed number of steps without dribbling the ball
Turnover: a loss of possession of the ball to the opposing team, either through a steal or other violation
Weakside: the side of the court opposite the ball
Wing: the area of the court near the sideline and outside the three-point line.

What are slang terms for basketball?

Air ball: a shot that misses the rim, backboard, and net completely
Basket: the rim, net, and backboard that the ball is shot through
Board: see "rebound"
Bucket: another term for a basket
Dime: a pass that leads to an easy scoring opportunity
J: another term for a jump shot
Juke: a fake or move used to deceive an opposing player
Oop: see "alley-oop"
Rock: another term for the ball
Swish: a shot that goes through the basket without touching the rim or backboard
Three: a shot made from beyond the three-point line that is worth three points
Trip-dub: a triple-double, which is a statistical feat in which a player records double digits in three categories (usually points, rebounds, and assists) in a single game.

Conclusion

There are many different terms used in basketball, ranging from specific positions and tactics to describe the way the game is played, to slang terms that are commonly used by players and fans.

Understanding these terms can help you better understand the sport and follow along with the action.

Caitlin clark had some fun before her wnba debut by winning a game of rock paper scissors, share this article.

As she was taking the court for her first WNBA game on Tuesday night, Indiana Fever rookie guard Caitlin Clark got a win in her game introduction.

Clark won a game of rock paper scissors during the team intros, which bodes well for her momentum of winning in her rookie season.

It’s always great to see athletes have a little fun before such a major moment in their careers, and Clark was all smiles as she kicked off this new stage of her career.

And, hey, a rock paper scissors win can really get you in the groove when you’re about to compete in sports. It’s a good morale boost!

Caitlin Clark played rock, paper, scissors in her WNBA introduction 😅 pic.twitter.com/AHZexKAOdS — ESPN (@espn) May 14, 2024

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Las Vegas Aces' head coach Becky Hammon arrives for a ceremony to celebrate the WNBA Champion Las Vegas Aces in the East Room of the White House on May 9, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Becky Hammon was visibly frustrated at ESPN's broadcast interviewing her during the Aces' season opener

Chelsea Gray (L) #12 of the Las Vegas Aces, holding Lennox Gray, and Kelsey Plum #10 receive their 2023 WNBA championship rings before the team's home opener against the Phoenix Mercury on May 14, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada

The Aces 2023 WNBA championship rings are totally iced-out and we're kinda jealous

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Isaiah Collier could be the Sixers’ 16th pick, but he’s No. 1 in his mind: ‘It’s going to show’

Collier swept the national high school awards and was the top recruit in his class. “I feel like I’m still one of the best players in this draft." he said.

USC guard Isaiah Collier, shown during a game in November, could be the Sixers' 16th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft.

CHICAGO — Isaiah Collier exudes extreme confidence — and it’s easy to see why.

The point guard was the No. 1 high school player in the class of 2023, according to Rivals and ESPN. He swept the Morgan Wootten and Naismith Prep 2023 national player of the year awards. And the Georgia native shared 2023 McDonald’s All-American Game MVP honors with former Camden High School standout DJ Wagner.

“I feel like I’m still one of the best players in this draft,” the University of Southern California freshman said at the NBA combine. “The jump shot didn’t fall as well as I wanted to in college, but I feel like I’ve been working. The shot has been evolving and I’m continuing to work on it.”

» READ MORE: NBA Draft Combine notes: Bronny James sees himself as a role player

Despite compiling an extensive resume and putting up thousands of shots each day, the 19-year-old’s draft stock fell following his lone season in Los Angeles. The speedster was considered a potential No. 1 pick early in the season before suffering a broken right hand that sidelined him for four weeks.

Now, the 6-foot-5, 210-pounder is projected to go in the middle of next month’s NBA draft at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. If available, Collier could be a solid pick for the 76ers with the No. 16 pick.

A great passer and facilitator, Collier could take some ballhandling duties off All-Star Tyrese Maxey . He also possesses a solid combination of strength and explosiveness. His athleticism enables him to get to the basket, while his strength allows him to play with his back to the basket and create scoring opportunities for others. He was also an above average help defender at USC.

But Collier needs to navigate screens better. He also needs to cut down his tendency to over dribble and become a more consistent shooter. Even with those disadvantages, he has the potential to develop into a solid starting point guard.

» READ MORE: NBA Draft Combine dispatch: A sampling of Sixers draft prospects, in their own words

“You know Tyrese Maxey is a great player,” Collier said. “Wherever I go, I just hope it’s the right situation. I’m just going in there trying to do anything to win.”

Of all his positive attributes, Collier’s basketball IQ and strength are the most NBA ready.

“Just having that IQ since I was a young age, just seeing the floor differently from a PG perspective,” Collier said. “It’s always been great for me and an advantage for me.”

He averaged 16.3 points on 49.0% shooting along with 4.3 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 27 games. And while Collier was named to the Pac-12 All-Freshman team, he only shot 67.3% from the foul line.

Before his injury, Collier averaged 15.4 points while shooting 50.6% from the field. He led the team with 66 assists.

» READ MORE: Bronny James is the main attraction at the 2024 NBA Draft Combine. He wants to be more than ‘LeBron James’ son’

But he displayed more poise in clutch moments after returning from his injury. Collier averaged 17.6 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.8 turnovers while shooting 37.5% on three-pointers in his final 11 games.

“I feel like the second half of my season when I came back from post injury was the person I should have been all year,” he said. “I mean people might question that, but I feel like that’s who I am. I get on myself about that a lot. I should have been [that] all year, but it is what it is.

“It’s going to show.”

Senior basketball star wins state championship after traumatic crash

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) - In honor of National Trauma Awareness Month, ThedaCare is sharing one patient’s incredible story.

Last November high school basketball senior Emmitt Konieczny and his mother were driving to Lakeland University when another car crossed the center line, crashing into theirs, head-on.

Emmitt lost consciousness and was flown to the ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Neenah. His mother Jen was taken to a local hospital in Sheboygan for ankle and shoulder injuries.

Once in Neenah, ThedaCare’s medical team determined Emmitt was suffering from internal bleeding that required emergency surgery. After the surgery, all Emmitt was concerned about was his basketball team and when he could begin playing again.

His father Joe, who is also his basketball coach, assured Emmitt he would return to the court and that the team would win the state tournament.

Emmitt missed nine games, but returned after roughly 100 days in recovery, just in time to fulfill his dad’s prophecy: winning the championship with his team.

“In a 3 hour span I went from a kid, running around, having fun with his friends, to a kid just trying to walk laps around a hospital,” said Emmitt Konieczny, a Columbus Catholic High School senior. “So, for us to actually have this be the year that we got it done just with everything we went through it didn’t really feel real and I definitely shed some tears,”

“He felt like he had great care, he felt very comfortable here with compassionate staff people helping him in a time when I couldn’t be with him because I was in another facility, and his dad, his brother, and other family members were, you know, two hours away. So, it’s very, like I said, emotional but yet we are so grateful and so happy we can come back and say thank you,” said Jen Konieczny, Emmitt’s mother.

Emmitt achieved his goal of winning -- and more! He scored 31 points, tying the D5 state record, and went 10 for 10 from the free throw line. Next, Emmitt will continue playing basketball at Lakeland University.

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NCAA approves waiver allowing schools unlimited official visits in basketball

The NCAA has approved a blanket waiver to allow schools an unlimited number of official visits in men’s and women’s basketball, effective immediately, according to a memo sent out to NCAA members and obtained by The Athletic on Thursday.

The men’s and women’s basketball oversight committees recommended the blanket waiver due to roster depletion concerns in the current transfer environment.

Previously, schools were capped on the number of official visits they could host. The blanket waiver is expected to alleviate that amid greater movement in the transfer portal, with fewer restrictions to player movement than ever before .

It addresses the combined impact of the one-time transfer rule, transfer portal windows and multi-time transfers being immediately eligible.

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The blanket waiver may turn into legislation if two pending legislative proposals are adopted by the Division I Council in June.

The idea is that each team can determine how many official visits are necessary to maintain its basketball roster from year to year.

It serves as the latest example of the NCAA loosening its rules to benefit current and future athletes amid an internal push to do so and as pressure mounts from the courts and Congress related to athlete empowerment.

Required reading

Ranking the best players in the NCAA men’s basketball transfer portal
NCAA changes transfer rules, formalizing era of immediate eligibility: How we got here
The college sports-wide vibe shift that led leaders to the brink of a historic settlement

(Photo: Eakin Howard / Getty Images)

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Nicole Auerbach covers college football and college basketball for The Athletic. A leading voice in college sports, she also serves as a studio analyst for the Big Ten Network and a radio host for SiriusXM. Nicole was named the 2020 National Sports Writer of the Year by the National Sports Media Association, becoming the youngest national winner of the prestigious award. Before joining The Athletic, she covered college football and college basketball for USA Today. Follow Nicole on Twitter @ NicoleAuerbach

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Helpful Advice On Creating A Term Paper About Basketball. Basketball is one of the most popular games of the world and there are several people who choose the game as a profession. If you have been a student of the game, it is almost certain that you will have to write a term paper on the game in a short while. If that is what you are already ...
Basketball Glossary
2 - Numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the shooting guard position. 3 - Numerical short-form way of referring to the player at the small forward position. 3-Second Violation - A violation that can occur in distinct ways for both the offense and the defense respectively.
Basketball Glossary and Terms
Bucket: another term for a basket. Dime: a pass that leads to an easy scoring opportunity. Dunk: a high-scoring play in which a player jumps and slams the ball through the basket with their hand. J: another term for a jump shot. Juke: a fake or move used to deceive an opposing player. Oop: see "alley-oop".
Basketball
Well, basketball was invented by a young man. It only took a few days to create. Basketball is important because in today's generation it is a well-known sport and money maker for many people. Basketball is better than any other sport. Basketball was a sport that was invented by a man named James Naismith.
LSU men's basketball learns SEC foes for 2025 season
In new-look SEC, LSU men's basketball will play Texas at home, Oklahoma away in 2025. Basketballs sit on the court before tip-off of a game in the PMAC. The LSU men's basketball team will have two ...
Caitlin Clark wins game of rock paper scissors before WNBA debut
Caitlin Clark had some fun before her WNBA debut by winning a game of rock paper scissors. The media could not be loaded, either because the server or network failed or because the format is not ...
USC's Isaiah Collier could be the Sixers' 16th pick in 2024 NBA draft
USC guard Isaiah Collier, shown during a game in November, could be the Sixers' 16th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft. Read more Ryan Sun / AP. by Keith Pompey. Published May 16, 2024, 5:00 a.m. ET. CHICAGO — Isaiah Collier exudes extreme confidence — and it's easy to see why. The point guard was the No. 1 high school player in the ...
Senior basketball star wins state championship after traumatic crash
Last November high school basketball senior Emmitt Konieczny and his mother were driving to Lakeland University when another car crossed the center line, crashing into theirs, head-on. Emmitt lost ...
NCAA approves waiver allowing unlimited official visits in basketball
May 9, 2024. The NCAA has approved a blanket waiver to allow schools an unlimited number of official visits in men's and women's basketball, effective immediately, according to a memo sent out ...
Mountain West Men's Basketball Joins College Officiating Consortium
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The Mountain West announced today that it will join the Big Ten, Horizon League, Mid-American Conference and Summit League as the newest member of the men's basketball College Officiating Consortium (COC-MBB2). Terry Wymer has served as the Executive Director of the COC-MBB2 since 2023 and will also be the ...
Nature and human well-being: The olfactory pathway
Human beings typically have an excellent sense of smell, even when compared to a number of other animals, including mice and some canids (14-17).Yet, olfaction has been undervalued as a sensory pathway for human experience in Western cultures (14, 18, 19).Recent studies found that a sample of adults in the UK valued their sense of smell less than vision, hearing, touch, and taste (), and ...