At first take, basketball is a sport that can be a little confusing. Players run up and down a wooden court at such a blistering pace it seems as if you’re watching a new hybrid event in track and field, a cross between high jump and sprinting.
Basketball 101
At first take, basketball is a sport that can be a little confusing. Players run up and down a wooden court at such a blistering pace it seems as if you’re watching a new hybrid event in track and field, a cross between high jump and sprinting.
Most first-time watchers have a hard time understanding the rules, much less what the score could possibly be. That’s why after reading this beginners guide you will be cheering Portland State’s newest Diaper Dandy when they’re taking charges in no time!
Basic rules
Personal foul: Illegal physical contact with any player on the court.
Holding: An obvious rule for most sports.
Illegal screen: While on offense a player may block the path of a defensive player. However, they can’t be moving when they do so or initiate conduct with the player.
Charging: A foul that is given to the offensive player. While moving, no offensive player may push or run over or thru a defensive player.
Blocking: Similar to an illegal screen, a defensive player must have his or her feet set (not moving) when attempting to block the path of an offensive player.
General lingo
Air ball: A shot that misses everything but the air. Typically chanted by the crowd when it happens and every time the player gets the ball thereafter.
Traveling: A common call on almost every level except the NBA. Occurs when a player takes too many steps between dribbles.
Fast break: An offensive sequence where a player or players make a mad dash down the court after gaining possession in the hopes they are able to score before the defense can get set. This usually leads to easy points scored.
Rebound: The term used to describe when a player collects a ball after a missed shot.
Turnover: When the ball switches possession between teams because of an error or from a steal.
Dick Vitale lingo
Dick Vitale is a well known basketball sportscaster.
Diaper Dandy: One of his most classic lines ever, this term is reserved for a sensational freshman.
Dipsy-doo dunk-a-roo: Reserved for only the flashiest of dunks.
Highriser: Saved for an out-of-this-world leaper. This word usually follows a dipsy-doo dunk-a-roo.
Trifecta: A common description for a three-point shot that was coined by Vitale.
