Basketball, a sport conceived by James W. Naismith in December 1891 to keep his students fit during winter at the YMCA in Springfield, USA, has come a long way.

What began with just a few rules has evolved into one of the most exciting and competitive Olympic sports. The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris showcased the best of both 5-on-5 and 3x3 basketball, from July 27 to August 11, 2024.

Venue and Format

The preliminary 5-on-5 basketball matches were played at Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille, a venue known for its state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant atmosphere. The high-stakes final phase was held at the Accor Arena in Paris (formerly known as Bercy Arena due to IOC naming regulations), providing a dramatic setting for the concluding games. Meanwhile, the 3x3 basketball competitions, which added a fast-paced twist to the traditional game, were hosted at the iconic Place de la Concorde.

Rules of the Game

Basketball is a dynamic sport involving two teams of five players each, competing on a rectangular indoor court. The objective is to score points by shooting the ball through a hoop that is 3.05 meters (10 feet) above the ground. Olympic basketball games are divided into four 10-minute quarters. Players must demonstrate exceptional endurance, agility, and skill as they transition between offense and defense, making every game a showcase of athletic prowess.

Olympic History

Basketball first appeared at the Olympics as a demonstration sport during the 1904 St. Louis Games, initially limited to American teams. It was officially included in the Olympic program at the Berlin 1936 Games. Women's basketball made its Olympic debut 40 years later at the Montreal 1976 Games. Historically, the United States has been a dominant force in the sport, with the men's team winning gold in every Olympics except for the 1972, 1980, 1988, and 2004 Games.

The women's team has won gold in every Olympics since 1984, except for Barcelona 1992, where they took bronze. The 1992 "Dream Team" of NBA stars made a significant impact by winning gold and defeating their opponents by an average margin of 40 points.

Lykkers, you probably have enjoyed the electrifying showcase of basketball excellence as the world's top teams battle for glory in Paris. The 2024 Olympics promised thrilling matches and unforgettable moments on the court!