Scoring in basketball means shooting. It behooves the aspiring basketball player, therefore, to learn all the rules pertaining to shooting--and scoring. Generally speaking, learning basketball shooting rules should not be a difficult task; far more demanding will be the challenge of learning proper a shooting form, then perfecting your shot.
Definition
A legal shot (technically defined as a "field goal" or a "free throw") is one that takes place during live play; the ball must be shot from the playing area and enter the basketball hoop from above, passing completely through the net.
Points
The number of points awarded a team for a shot is based on the spot where the shot was taken. Any shot taken within the three-point line (the large arc closest to the half-court line) is worth two points. Any shot taken outside of the three-point line is worth three points.
Foul Shots
When a player is fouled while in the act of taking a shot, the player has the opportunity to take foul shots, known as free throws. If the previous shot (during which the player was fouled) went in anyway, the shooter receives one free throw. If the previous shot (during which the player was fouled) did not go in, the shooter receives two free throws. The exception to this is when a shooter is fouled outside of the three-point line. When this occurs, the shooter receives three free throws instead of two (or, if the previous shot went in despite the foul, one free throw). To properly take free throws, the player must stand behind the free-throw line (the line in the middle of the circle, parallel with the baseline).
Wrong Basket
If the shooter (or a hapless defender) happens to put the basketball through the opponent's hoop, points will still be awarded--to the opposing team. After the play, the team awarded the points will begin with the ball, typically at its own free-throw line.
