8. Defense: Zone vs. Man-to-Man Defense. A zone defense is one that covers area, not specific persons on the opposing team. Zones can be organized in a variety of ways-2-1-1, 1-2-1, etc. A Man-to-Man defense is one in which every player "marks" another player on the opposite team. Zones work well against teams strong at driving to the hoop where as man-to-man works best on teams that struggle with the dribble.
9. Fouls. You are allowed five fouls per game. After you get five fouls, you are removed from the game. This rule is intended to prevent a very rough game.
If a player is fouled mid-shot, he is entitled to a "free throw" or "foul shot." A free throw is taken on the free throw line, which is located 19 feet from the baseline (under the basket). The player who was fouled gets to take two unobstructed shots from the line, or three shots if he was fouled while shooting behind the three-point line. His feet cannot touch or go over the free throw line in order for the point to count. If a player is fouled while shooting and makes the shot, she will only be granted one free throw shot. After a team reaches over ten fouls, the opposite team is entitled to free throw shots per foul regardless of the kind of foul.
10. 3-Second Violation. On offense, you cannot remain in the "key" (area designated underneath and directly in front of basket) for more than 3-seconds. If there is a 3-second violation, there will be a subsequent change of possession.
11. Rebounds. One of the most important elements of the game is getting rebounds. Rebounds are the missed or deflected shots that are recovered by either team. Having a team strong in rebounding is an important asset. Rebounds can be the root of what is called a "fast break," where the team rebounding is able to move the ball quickly down the court through a series of long and hard passes. Teams with good endurance and strong rebounding skills excel at the fast break, and as a result, gain an advantage on a slower team.
12. Positions: Guards. The guards are primarily in charge of dribbling and passing the ball. One guard, known as the shooting guard, takes outside shots regularly. The point guard runs the offense and is known for dribbling skills and passing expertise.
13. Positions: Forwards. Forwards play below the basket on offense. They do much of the shooting because of their positioning near the basket.
14. Positions: Center. The center is the tallest person on the team. The center usually hangs out near or under the basket for passes, shots and rebounds. He also takes the tip-off at the start of the game.
Basketball, although it has its share of rules and regulations, is a simple game to play and enjoy.
Credit to : Grace Bloodwell [ http://www.howtodothings.com/sports-and-recreation/a3447-how-to-play-basketball.html ]
