From Jordan to Kobe to Lebron, basketball has long been a fast-paced and exciting sport loved by millions of people in countries around the world. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard enthusiast, there are many ways to watch basketball and enjoy all the game has to offer.
To get into watching basketball, you should first find a team to support. Then, work on learning the rules of the game so that you can more easily follow what’s happening on the court. Finally, watch live games, track the stats, and interact with other fans. You can even join a fantasy league!
There are all kinds of reasons for people to get into basketball. Some want to be part of a community; others love to bet or track the statistics. Whatever reason you have for taking up the sport, I’ve compiled a list of the best ways to start watching and setting off on the road to fandom.
1. Find a Team To Root For
One of the best ways to get into watching basketball is to find a team to root for and follow all season long. This could be a local team, a team from your home state or country, or even a team with players or coaches you admire.
Having a team to follow will give you a sense of connection to the game and make it more enjoyable to watch while also dialing you into a fanbase.
2. Learn the Rules
Knowing basketball rules is important for understanding what’s happening on the court. Any new viewer needs to take some time to familiarize themselves with the basic rules of the game, including how to score, how to foul, and how to pass and shoot.
You can find a detailed breakdown of the rules on the NBA website or by watching instructional videos online. NBA video games are also a great place to learn about the rules.
3. Watch Live Games
There’s nothing quite like watching a live basketball game in person.
The energy of the crowd, the sound of the ball hitting the court, and the excitement of the players all combine to create a truly unique experience.
If you have the opportunity, try to catch a live game at a local arena or watch it on TV with other fans at a local sports bar. You can subscribe to the NBA League Pass to never miss a game.
4. Follow the Stats
Basketball is a statistics-heavy sport, and keeping track of key stats can help you better understand the game and the strategies the teams are using.
Some key stats to watch include points per game, assist rates, and rebounds. You can find a wealth of statistical information online or through sports apps.
Once you start following along, you can find all the most up-to-date stats at ESPN.
5. Join a Fantasy League
Fantasy sports leagues are a great way to get more involved in the game and feel like you’re a part of the action. You can join a league with friends or coworkers or find a public league online.
Fantasy basketball allows you to draft your own team of players and compete against others based on the stats they generate in real games.
6. Interact With Other Fans
One of the best ways to get into watching basketball is to talk to other fans and share your thoughts and insights on the game. Once you pick a team to follow, you’ll find a plethora of places where fans can interact.
You can join online forums or social media groups devoted to basketball or simply strike up a conversation with someone you know who is a fan of the game.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to basketball or looking to develop a deeper appreciation for the game, these tips will help you get started on your journey to becoming a true fan. With a little effort and a lot of enthusiasm, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying all that basketball has to offer, from statistics to friendships to fandom.