Wheelchair Basketball

Disabled Sports — SAT Project

Wheelchair Basketball 🏀

A modified version of basketball that's played by people using wheelchairs, promoting inclusion and athletic excellence.

0
Players Worldwide
0
Teams
0
Events
Wheelchair basketball players in action
r

About Wheelchair Basketball

Wheelchair Basketball is a paralympic sport or an Alternative version of Basketball for induviduals with leg problems or for wheelchair users. It is also to promote teamwork, leadership, and good communcation skills.

History: The sport originated post-World War II to rehabilitate injured American veterans. Wheelchair Basketball has been started at the University of Illinois, with Dr Timothy Nugent founding the National Wheelchair Basketball Association in 1949. Dr Timothy Nugent has also commisioned the games for the first 25 years of the sport's creation. The 1947 Stroke Bandeville Wheelchair Games were also the first Wheelchair Basketball match to be held and only involved 26 participants, including some other athletic events. It has also influanced other wheelchair sports to be created. Over the decades, it has evolved into an organized international sport with professional leagues.

Historical image of wheelchair basketball

How It Works

The game follows similar rules to standard basketball with a few modifications to accommodate wheelchair use.

  • Players use specially designed sports wheelchairs.
  • The court and basket are standard size.
  • Game flow and player roles are similar to traditional basketball.

Rules & Adaptations

The sport includes adaptations to ensure fair play and safety for all participants.

  • Classification system based on functional ability.
  • Modified dribbling rules for wheelchair propulsion.
  • Fouls, scoring, and penalties follow international regulations.

Equipment

Essential gear for playing wheelchair basketball.

  • Sports wheelchairs with angled wheels for stability.
  • Official basketballs for adaptive play.
  • Protective gear like gloves and straps.
  • Court modifications for accessibility.

Benefits

Participating in wheelchair basketball offers many advantages.

  • Improves physical fitness and coordination.
  • Boosts mental health and confidence.
  • Encourages social interaction and teamwork.
  • Promotes inclusion and accessibility awareness.