Basketball Basketball - 1.) a game played by two opposing teams of typically five players each, usually in an indoor, zoned floor area: points are scored by sending a ball through a raised goal (basket) at the opponents end of the playing court. 2.) a large, round, inflated ball used in this game. Basketball is a game that is played all around the world. Here in the United States we have enjoyed playing and watching it since it was invented by James Naiemith in 1891. Basketball is played by just about everyone. Although, usually, the players who are the most entertaining to watch stand very tall and light in weight. Height is important in a basketball player. Every year we see p