Wheelchair basketball is a fast-paced game played by two teams of five players where the object is to shoot the ball into the opposing team’s basket, scoring the most points at the end of the game.

 

Two points are scored for a basket within the three-point line, three points from the outside, and one point for sinking each free throw.

 

Every team is comprised of five players and seven substitutes. Games consist of four 10-minute periods and extra time if scores are tied. The court, the hoop, and the backboards are the same dimension as standing basketball.

 

One big difference is the travel rule. Wheelchair athletes must pass or bounce the ball after every two pushes to avoid being penalised for travelling. There is also a no double dribble rule.

 

This sport is unique because teams are made up of players with a variety of sport classes. Each player is given a points score from 1.0 to 4.5 according to the degree of activity limitation on their ability to play basketball. The greater the points score the greater the players volume of action. A team can only have 14 points among the five players on the court at any one time.

 

Wheelchairs used in this sport are designed for speed and agility. Most are equipped with two large, cambered wheels, two small front castors, and one or two small rear castors to prevent tipping backwards. The game is fast and requires teamwork and eye-hand coordination.

 

The sport is governed by the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF). Sports Association for the Physically Disabled of Hong Kong, China is the member of International Wheelchair Basketball Federation in Hong Kong, China and also the organisation for elite development of Wheelchair basketball in Hong Kong, China.
 

Source of information credit: International Paralympic Committee
Source of photo credit: Hong Kong Sports Association for the Physically Disabled