A basketball player is an athlete who participates in the sport of basketball. They typically play on a team and aim to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's basket while defending their own. Players can specialize in various positions, such as point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, or center, each with specific roles and responsibilities on the court. Basketball players require a combination of skills, including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defensive techniques. They often train rigorously to improve their physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork. Professional players may compete in leagues like the NBA or represent their countries in international competitions.