Basketball Court Size and Dimensions
There are many basketball court size and dimensions. In FIBA (International Basketball Federation) the court measures 28 m by 15 m (91’10.4” by 49’2.6”). FIBA rules allow national federations to employ other courts. This is provided the size is 26 m by 14 m (85’3.6” by 45’11.2”) at least.
Court Size Used in the NBA and Others
The court in the National Basketball Association (NBA) is 94 ft long and 50 ft wide. The rim is 10 ft high. The center circle is 12 ft in diameter. The key is 16 ft wide. The free throw distance is 15 ft. The three point line in the league is 3 ft (0.91 m). This measurement is at the sidelines beginning from the baseline. The zone ends after it passes the 23 ft 9 in (7.24 m) arc.
Courts used in high school measure 84’ by 50’. In elementary basketball, courts measure 74’ x 42’. Sizes are very diverse in amateur basketball. However, the rim is always 10’ high. The only possible exception to this rule is in youth games.
Parts and Sections
Although basketball court size and dimensions differ, the sections used are very similar. The center circle is the part where the tipoff takes place. During the jump ball, only the two players contesting the ball can be on it.
Afterwards, everyone can step on it. The three point area is used to separate the two point region from the three point line. All shots taken beyond the line count for three points. The three point distance varies. For high school it is 19.75 feet (6.02 m), while in international play it is 20.5 feet (6.2 m). In NCAA men’s basketball, it is 20.75 feet (6.32 m).
The Perimeter
This is the part that is farthest from the rim. However it is outside of the foul throw line. All shots made in this region are known as perimeter shots. If a player takes a shot while their feet are on the line, it is also deemed a perimeter shot. The low post is the part that is nearest the basket but not on the free throw area.
Basketball court size and dimensions are subject to change. FIBA has modified the key so it resembles that in the NBA. The NBA has also changed the distance of its three point line several times. In the past the line was shortened to increase the scoring.
