Sports Then and Now

From pickup games between friends to the Paralympics, wheelchair basketball is an iconic sport. Although wheelchair basketball players follow many of the same rules as standard basketball, it also has plenty of regulations, challenges and skills unique to the sport. Wheelchair basketball is one of the most popular Paralympic sports, and it goes to show that there are so many things you can do, no matter your ability level. Basketball is only one of the various sports you can play in a wheelchair.

Whether you’re looking to get into wheelchair basketball as a spectator or as a player yourself, you should be aware of some things before taking your first shot. Namely, it’s crucial to know the rules of the game. Once you familiarize yourself with the essential principles, you’ll be ready to go in no time at all.

1. The Basics

In terms of the game’s objectives and rules, wheelchair basketball is extremely similar to standing basketball. There are offense and defense, and the game’s main goal is to score points by getting the ball through the opposing team’s hoop. One of the critical differences is the chairs themselves, which require additional skills to play the game. Not only do the players need the aim, agility and skill of standing basketball, but they must also know how to turn, wheel and control the chair. Usually, the chairs consist of aircraft aluminum or titanium to obtain the ideal weight and speed for the sport.