Basketball

The rules of basketball are designed to produce a very fast-paced offensive game, making it one of the most technically demanding ball sports. Invented in 1891 by a Canadian, James A. Naismith, at what is now Springfield College in Massachusetts, the game was exported to Europe in 1893 where it has been played ever since. In 1936, one year after the first European championship was organized by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), the sport made its Olympic debut at the Berlin Games. However, basketball became truly popular in Europe only after the Second World War, due to the presence of American troops. The first official National Basketball Association (NBA) match pitted Minneapolis against Syracuse, in 1950. The rise of women's basketball had been thwarted by more restrictive rules until the early 1970s, and it became an Olympic sport only in 1976. At the 1992 Barcelona Games, the overwhelming dominance of the American men's team - nicknamed “The Dream Team” - made NBA basketball popular around the world.

Two teams of 5 players each try to score points by tossing the ball into the opposing team's basket. They may use only their hands to control the ball, and are not allowed to run while holding it. A field goal counts for 2 points, or 3 points if it is thrown from outside the 3-point line. A free throw is worth 1 point. The team with the possession of the ball must launch an attack within the following time limits:

• After taking possession of the ball, they have 10 seconds to move the ball forward across the mid-court line, and 30 seconds to take a shot at the basket;
• A player who is hemmed in by an opponent must move the ball by dribbling, throwing, or passing it within 5 seconds.

I was fortunate to meet Daniel Sequeira at the YMCA Basketball court after he turned out an excellent performance for his team. In an interview on this popular game basketball which is normally dominated by youth - this is what Daniel had to say:

What prompted you take up to basketball?
I began playing basketball when I was 12-years old. I was just exposed to the sport at Central YMCA where a few of my friends used to play. Initially, I played basketball with friends who were older than me and that helped me to pick up the game much faster. Also my elder brother David was a good basketball player and gave me deep insights into the game. So far I have represented St. Xavier's College and played at the State level in Aurangabad in 2004.

Have you been following the NBA matches?
Like most basket ball players, I am a keen follower of the NBA. The quality of basketball played and the fitness of the players is amazing. Personally I have learnt a lot from watching the NBA on TV. The list of players I like is quite long but my favourite player Allen Iverson who plays for the Philadelphia 76'ers. In spite of being relatively smaller than other NBA players, he has managed to become one of the best players in the league today.

What do you think of basketball played at the State level?
Even though it is not the most popular sport, the level of basketball in Maharashtra is quite good. But I feel that there should be more tournaments held at the school, college and club levels, especially for the juniors.

How do you look at yourself in the next few years?
I will continue to play basketball for as long as I can. It doesn't really matter at which level I am playing at, as long as I am playing good, competitive basketball. I am looking forward to making a mark at the District Sports Office Basketball tournament and the Bandra YMCA tournament.

Spain celebrates their first World Championship Crown in basketball:
Spain beat Greece 70-47 to claim their first World Championship title at Saitama (Japan). Despite the absence of star player Pau Gasol who was out with injury Spain dominated the proceedings. Taking into consideration a near perfect performance by Greece (8-1), in 101-95 semifinal win over United States, Spain put on an impressive offensive and defensive display in getting to the final for the first time. Everything went Spain's way as it took a 43-23 halftime lead. Its other stars were playing at their normal level and the bench was playing well within themselves. Greece looked nothing like the team that had received plaudits from around the world for their convincing victory over USA.

     Looking Ahead & Beyond

Is Formula One heading for a classic finish by year-end?
Michael Schumacher is confident of continuing his superb form in the few remaining Formula I Grand Prix. The seventh-time World Champion has cut Spaniard Fernando Alonso's championship lead substantially. It is hard to imagine that things can change overnight at the drop of a hat. Looking ahead each year - it is good to learn that this great event keeps hotting up. If my memory serves me out correctly - I vividly remember that Kimi Raikkonen won seven races last year and came close to catching up with Alonso. However - in the final analysis, McLaren failed to match Renault's performance.

This year the scenario is no different. Fernando Alonso remains cool and unfazed by his nearest rival Schumi - even though he was beaten comprehensively in the United States and France by Schumi's comeback form and historical feat. In my observation - Renault's season appears to be heading the same way as last year. At the outset of this season - Alonso made concerted efforts and determined bid to engage into a strong start whereby he collected huge points to his credit. Then, midway through the season he cruises along comfortably knowing that he can secure a second crown just by qualifying in the first few positions. Formula One has always generated immense interest among its fans and now looking into the future - the biggest question is - whether the reigning world champion will move over to McLaren next year.

Also whether Schumi who has achieved remarkable success, will call it a day at the end of this season?
As Schumi applies the brakes on his career of F1 studded with great wins and memorial moments - one wonders what will be in store for the future. Schumacher sensationally kept in contention for an eighth world drivers' title by closing the gap on Spain's Fernando Alonso, who pulled out after 10 laps from the end, to two points in what was his 90th career victory in Formula One. He brought much joy and excitement to this great sport - stamping his authority on Formula One for the last 11 years. His retirement will leave a huge void in the world of sport.

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