College basketball

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College basketball is a form of basketball played at institutions of higher education, primarily in the United States and Canada. It is governed by various organizations, including the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA).

History

College basketball has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The first recorded game was played on January 18, 1896, between the University of Iowa and the University of Chicago. The sport quickly gained popularity, leading to the establishment of the NCAA in 1906 to oversee and regulate college athletics.

Rules and Regulations

The rules of college basketball are similar to those of professional basketball, with some variations. The game consists of two halves, each lasting 20 minutes, with a 15-minute halftime break. The court dimensions and the height of the basket are the same as in professional basketball. However, the shot clock is 30 seconds, and the three-point line is closer to the basket than in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Competitions

The most prominent college basketball competition in the United States is the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament, commonly known as March Madness. This annual tournament features 68 teams competing in a single-elimination format to determine the national champion. The NCAA Women's Division I Basketball Tournament is the equivalent competition for women's college basketball.

Notable Programs

Several college basketball programs have achieved significant success and have become well-known for their achievements. These include:

• University of Kentucky
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Duke University
• University of Kansas
• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Impact on Professional Basketball

College basketball serves as a crucial pipeline for the NBA and other professional basketball leagues. Many NBA stars, such as Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson, honed their skills in college before turning professional. The NBA Draft is an annual event where NBA teams select eligible college players to join the league.

Related Pages

• Basketball
• NCAA
• March Madness
• NBA Draft
• NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament
• NCAA Women's Division I Basketball Tournament

See Also

• List of NCAA Division I men's basketball programs
• List of NCAA Division I women's basketball programs
• College basketball awards
• College basketball arenas