Each quarter can be 10 minutes long for international games and 12 minutes for the NBA. A half-time break is given 15 minutes. If the scores are equal by the end of the fourth quarter, an overtime will be issued that is five minutes long. Whenever the game is not active, the time is stopped. A game usually lasts for two hours, depending on various technical aspects that may occur while it is on. There are also studies conducted by the Women s Sports Foundation that adolescents who are regularly involved in team sports are less likely to use drugs, be in abusive relationships and have higher chances of finishing high school and continuing to college. They develop self-confidence, making them physically, mentally and emotionally healthy. The latter, in order to comply with the standard rules, must have a rim that measures 18 inches in diameter and 10 feet high. By shooting the ball, a team can get two points if the player made the shot inside the half circle and three points if the player is at the back circle. The team with the most number of points by the end of the game would win. Knowing that you are safe will not only give you peace of mind. It can also spare the people who love you from worrying about your safety and your life as well. Bearing safety measures in mind Above all else, your personal safety should always be the major consideration before you decide to engage in a team sports such as basketball. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the governing body that oversees around 1,200 voluntary college and university members. The first tournament of March Madness occurred in 1939 with eight teams. Then, the tournament expanded to 16 teams in 1951. After two years, it became 22 and in 1975, it went up to 32 teams. For those who are playing basketball to, here are some tips you can do yourself: Watch what you eat. Choosing the foods you eat from the food pyramid can help you develop a well-balanced diet and will give your body the nutrients it needs to endure the rigorous activities while playing basketball. Never, ever skip regular meals.