Dribble, shoot, and score with this topic covering the fast-paced world of basketball. Learn about legendary players, iconic teams, and game terminology.
Basketball presents a dynamic and recognizable theme for crossword puzzles, packed with action-oriented vocabulary, player statistics, and historical moments. Terms like "slam dunk," "three-pointer," or "assist" offer straightforward yet satisfying clues, while famous arenas, team mascots, and Hall of Fame inductees provide deeper trivia. Constructors can craft puzzles that capture the energy and excitement of the sport, appealing to sports fans and those who enjoy a lively challenge.
Crossword clues used in basketball puzzles, with answers and links to play.
“Annual spring lottery event where top college standouts enter the professional ranks”
DRAFT (5)
“Braided nylon hanging beneath the rim that ripples on a pure jumper”
NET (3)
“Target elevated exactly ten feet above the hardwood at every arena”
RIM (3)
“Whistle consequence capped at six per player before disqualification in a 40-minute contest”
FOUL (4)
“Las Vegas squad led by A'ja Wilson to back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023”
ACES (4)
“Southern California team led by Lisa Leslie that claimed back-to-back crowns in 2001-02”
SPARKS (6)
“Chicago forward who broke the single-season rebound record with 446 boards in 2024”
REESE (5)
“The metal ring through which a basketball must pass to score”
HOOP (4)
“The act of trying to score points against the opponent”
OFFENSE (7)
“A player who is in their very first professional season”
ROOKIE (6)
“A group of players working together to win a game”
TEAM (4)
“Units earned by successfully shooting the ball into the basket”
POINTS (6)
“An illegal move or contact made against an opponent”
FOUL (4)
“The team trying to prevent a score”
DEFENSE (7)
“It shakes when a three-pointer finds the bottom of the hoop”
NET (3)
“The official on the court blowing the whistle”
REFEREE (7)
“A defensive strategy where players guard areas rather than individuals”
ZONE (4)
“A cold streak where a team cannot buy a bucket”
FREEZE (6)
“The person calling timeouts and drawing up plays”
COACH (5)
“Where the reserve players sit during the game”
BENCH (5)
“An attempt to score points”
SHOT (4)
“Slang for a successfully grabbed rebound”
BOARD (5)
“A rapid dribbling move designed to fake out a defender”
CROSSOVER (9)
“The massive venue where professional games take place”
ARENA (5)
“The flat surface behind the rim used for banking shots”
BACKBOARD (9)
“An infraction caused by walking with the ball without dribbling”
TRAVEL (6)
“Losing possession of the ball to the opponent”
TURNOVER (8)
“Specialized high-top footwear worn for ankle support”
SNEAKERS (8)
“An uncontested shot taken from a designated line after a foul”
FREETHROW (9)
“Losing possession of the ball to the other team”
TURNOVER (8)
Showing the first 30 of 111 clues. Visit each puzzle to see all its clues.
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