Differences That Define Football And Basketball
Differences That Define Football And Basketball
As someone who plays both competitively, I believe basketball is better, but here are the pros and cons of each sport from my perspective and how I play it:
Speed of Play
Soccer is very relaxed compared to basketball. You’re playing for 90 minute and usually only score a couple times. You could have a good game by just making good thru balls. I personally find soccer speed of play easier and am more conditioned for it. Basketball, however, is always looking to score and you are always sprinting for the whole game. Possessions are very quick, no more than 45 seconds in high school, and even passing is a lot faster, you have to think faster in basketball.
Defense
I am a very good defender in both sports but soccer is by far easier. For me I am stronger than most of my opponents in soccer and I am able to stick my shoulder right into them and push them off the ball. You cannot do that in basketball or else youll fould and instead have to use your feet and have to have quick hands.
Dependency on athleticism
Again this is my personal view, but having a natural born gift is more advantageous for basketball. The ideal basketball player needs to be tall which will already give them a trememdous advantage. Soccer doesn’t need any body type. As long as you are in shape you should be fine. A short player like Messi and a kind of tall strong player like Ronaldo are both very successful.
Coaching
Basketball is a lot different than soccer in how you play with tactics because there are many ways you can play. Slow, fast, trap defense, press, half court defense, zone, etc. Sure soccer might need different formations but the general style of play is largely the same. Also basketball has a lot more set plays and offenses. Soccer only has those on corner kicks and throw ins.
Practicing
For me, I’ve spent a lot less hours on soccer than basketball, but am still really good at soccer and only average at basketball. This is because of shooting and finishing- it is such a tough skill and it is more like practicing the piano or studying, if you don’t shoot everyday you will lose muscle memory, whereas for soccer I can come off a month of playing basketball without touching a soccer ball and still dribble really well and pass.
Overall
Soccer comes more naturally to me and for some it’s the opposite. Sometimes soccer can be really fun when played right but basketball is more challenging intense and fun all the time. I feel playing basketball benefits me a lot as a soccer player, but not as much vice versa. However, if you look at Steve Nash, an NBA player, his amazing court vision came from soccer. I recommend you try both sports and see what’s best for you!