A standard professional basketball court (like the NBA) measures 94 feet long by 50 feet wide (approximately 28.7 by 15.2 meters).
High school courts are usually a bit smaller, about 84 feet long by 50 feet wide.
Key Areas
Baseline/Endline: The boundary line behind each basket where the court ends.
Sidelines: The boundary lines running the length of the court.
Paint (The Key): The rectangular area near the basket, also called the free-throw lane, typically 16 feet wide in the NBA. This area includes the free-throw lane and the area under the basket.
Free-Throw Line: Located 15 feet from the backboard, players shoot free throws from here.
Three-Point Line: An arc surrounding the basket at a distance; in the NBA, it’s 23.75 feet at the top of the key and 22 feet at the corners. Shots made beyond this line count as 3 points.
Center Circle: Located at midcourt, where the game starts with a jump ball.
Positions of Players on the Court
Point Guard (PG): Typically the primary ball handler and playmaker.
Shooting Guard (SG): Often a strong shooter, plays both offense and defense.
Small Forward (SF): Versatile player, combines shooting, defense, and rebounding.
Power Forward (PF): Strong inside player, focuses on rebounding and close-range scoring.
Center (C): Usually the tallest player, positioned near the basket to block shots and rebound.
