Of late games and sports have received a lot of attention in the educational process. It is no longer viewed merely as an exercise for muscles or a period of rest. Instead it is seen as part of school curriculum, an integral part of schooling and learning process. Therefore, games such as, cricket, football, basketball, volleyball, baseball and many others have been introduced in almost all the schools.
Among the outdoor games, my favourite game is basketball. Somehow this particular game charms me. When I watch a game of basketball, it fills me with joy and delight. Although I am not a good player myself, I enjoy every bit of this game.
One of the main reasons for my liking of this game is that, it is a fast moving game and full of action. Quickness, foresight, skill and co-operation are the hallmarks of this game. Unlike football or cricket, which is rather slow, the game of basketball calls for quick movements and fast thinking. Quickness is the key to success in this game.
Another reason why I like this game is that unlike many other games, it can be watched from a close distance. Watching a game from a close quarter has tremendous effect upon the spectators. They feel the heat and the spirit of the game. Therefore, basketball is one of the most exciting games in the world.
Generally, the game of basketball is played for a duration of sixty minutes with ten minutes interval. The game is played with six players on each side. The game begins with the tossing of the ball at the centre. Normally there is only one referee but sometimes in some important matches there may be two. Besides, the referees, the other officials of the game are record keeper, timekeeper and the scorekeeper.
They all work in collaboration with the referee in conducting the game smoothly. Pushing, pulling, purposely obstructing, carrying the ball, running with the ball, cutting the boundary line etc. are some of the key fouls. Personal fouls are seriously taken note of. The score is counted by the number of baskets each team puts in to the others ring. Each basket “put” in carries two points, each. The team which gets highest score wins the game.
Another notable feature of this game is that it is played by a few players in comparison to many other outdoor games. Generally it is played by twelve players with six each on each side. Therefore, it can be easily and quickly organised. Besides, the basketball court occupies little space.
Therefore, it can be easily constructed on a small area such as, in front of buildings, courtyards, etc. Another merit of basketball is that the game calls for excellent group co-operation. It is not a one man’s game like cricket or football.
It is a game which demands team co-operation, united effort, and joint strategy. If this game is dominated by a single player, the team is likely to face defeat. Hence, it is one of the few outdoor games where co-operation among the team-mates is the key to success.
To me the game of basketball is one of the best games that man has ever invented. It is fast, exciting and full of action. It requires good co-operation, foresight, skill and organisation. It is a nice game to watch and enjoy. A well- played basketball match can certainly evoke joy and delight and give you moments of relaxation and thrill. Due to these reasons basketball is my favourite game.
