An assist in sports, particularly in basketball and soccer, refers to a pass or play that directly leads to a score by a teammate. It highlights teamwork and the ability to create scoring opportunities. For example, in basketball, a player who passes the ball to a teammate who then makes a basket is credited with an assist. In addition to basketball and soccer, assists are also tracked in other sports like hockey and football. The concept emphasizes the importance of collaboration among players, showcasing how one player's skill in setting up a play can significantly impact the game's outcome.