Team sports that have higher popularity levels than netball and basketball are very few in the world. Both of these games are strategic and involve shooting the ball into a hoop. These similarities do not make netball just like basketball since the two differ in their rules, techniques, and cultural significance. This article examines the various aspects that set netball apart from basketball and answer the question, is netball different from basketball? Let’s find out.
Is Netball a Female Sport?
Netball is one of those sports in which the main involvement is of women, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. It started during the early years of the 20th century as a version of basketball that was more socially acceptable. While men and women both play netball, the sport has retained a mostly female composition at the amateur and school levels. This is in contrast to basketball, which is more gender-balanced and has far more professional matches between men and women.
For example, netball is among the most popular sports activities for women and girls in Australia. A cultural association of netball assisted in shaping its identity and made it an emblem of female athleticism. Nevertheless, there are efforts to encourage more males to participate in this sport, where mixed-gender teams are a common feature.
What is Not Allowed in Netball?
Among the many points is netball different from basketball. One of the important differences between netball and basketball has to do with the rules and restrictions that govern the two games. There are a number of rules to differentiate netball, and understanding them would illustrate some ways in which the two sports remain different. In netball, players receive specific positions and are restricted to certain parts of the court.
An example is that only the Goal Shooter and Goal Attack can shoot for goals, and they can do so only within the shooting circle. Besides, dribbling is not allowed in netball, which is an aspect that differentiates it from basketball. In netball, players have to pass the ball in three seconds after the receipt, an aspect of adding speed and strategy to the game.
Another major difference is that netball is a no-contact game. Players should avoid physical contact; if they break this rule, they face penalties. In basketball, players can engage in some physical contact, but officials call fouls to discourage excessive contact, unlike in netball.
Which Is Harder, Basketball Or Netball?
It will depend on many aspects: the required skills, physical challenges, and rules included in each game. Some of the shared factors between netball and basketball are agility, quick decision-making, and teamwork; the manifestation is different.
It would be considered more physically demanding by some due to the size of the court involved, running non-stop, and dribbling the ball. Shooting long-distance, coupled with running at speed, also makes it hard. Besides, permission to make physical contact in basketball makes it even harder and more exhausting.
Conversely, netball is a highly technical sport involving fast footwork, quick passes, and appropriate positioning. The inability to dribble the ball, combined with the need to pass within a time frame of less than three seconds, is another challenge. Similarly, small areas in which players must operate- for example, the shooting circle- require accuracy, particularly when performing the netball shooting technique.
While both sports are similar and have their own challenges, it often boils down to personal preference and which issues regarding the game one thinks are most challenging for them.
What is the Correct Technique for Shooting in Netball?
Shooting in netball is a skill of precision that requires lots of control and confidence. The most striking difference between the netball shooting technique and basketball is that there is no backboard, while the goal ring is much smaller in size. So, here is a breakdown of the proper technique:
- Stance: Your stance should be shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and evenly weigh your body. The shooting hand should be right under the ball, and the non-shooting hand should steady the ball from the side.
- Grip: The ball should be held with your fingertips and not your palms for better control. The ball needs to sit comfortably in your hands, with your elbows pointed toward the ring.
- Target: Align your eyes to the front of the ring. In your mind’s eye, locate a spot where you would have the ball go through the hoop.
- Release: The shooting hand should press the ball upwards while fully extending the arms. Your wrist flicks at the time of release of the ball, providing a soft backspin to the ball. This is where follow-through ensures that every shot is accurate and consistent.
- Practice: Like any other skill, the netball shooting technique needs to be practiced routinely. This repetition builds up the muscle memory to confidently shoot at a goal during a game situation.
Why is Netball Not in the Olympics?
Despite this fact, netball has not yet appeared in the Olympic Games. The sport’s limited geographical reach is one of the main reasons behind that. While it is very popular in the Commonwealth countries of New Zealand, Australia, and the UK, it has not gained much popularity in other countries worldwide.
The Olympic Committee wants sports to be popular worldwide with pro leagues and governing bodies in many countries before they can join. Netball, while increasing its international presence, is a way from reaching the threshold for Olympic inclusion.
Efforts are continuing to raise the profile of netball internationally, with the hope that one day, netball officials will consider it for inclusion as an Olympic sport. At present, though, netball is one of the strong regional and international sports competing at the Commonwealth Games and the Netball World Cup.
What Do Australians Call Netball?
It is simply known as “netball.” In Australia, it seems that netball is an integral part of the cultural apparatus of that country. As millions of participants and spectators participate in this great sport. For many girls born in the land down under, it was almost a rite of passage to play this game at school..
Netball forms the core of Australian sporting culture, and their greatest history of success at international netball tournaments is to boast. The national Australian netball team, the Diamonds, holds one of the most successful places in the world.
Conclusion
While there are similarities, is netball different from basketball? There are plenty of points that could prove it, such as different rules, techniques, and cultural importance. Whether one prefers the speed and physicality of basketball or the strategy behind a non-contact netball game, each of these two sports offers unique experiences. They present their own set of exciting challenges and possibilities for players.
Understanding the differences between netball and basketball will allow one to appreciate the skills and dedication necessary in both of them.
When it comes to selecting the right attire for your netball team, the choice of netball bodysuits can make a significant difference in both performance and comfort. Designed to offer a streamlined fit, netball bodysuits enhance agility and ensure that players can move freely on the court without distractions. These bodysuits are not just functional; they also allow teams to showcase their unique identity through custom designs and colors. If you’re looking to elevate your team’s appearance and performance, don’t hesitate to explore more options for high-quality netball bodysuits. For teams seeking a tailored solution, you can easily fill this contact form to get started on your custom netball bodysuit design.