Basketball games are structured around quarters, but the length of these quarters can vary significantly across different leagues. In the NBA, each quarter lasts 12 minutes, a standard that dates back to the 1940s.
This consistency allows for easier historical comparisons, letting fans and analysts measure current players against legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell.
In contrast, other basketball organizations like the WNBA and international competitions governed by FIBA use 10-minute quarters.
These differences affect not just the pace and style of the game but also the endurance and strategy required from the players.
Understanding these variations provides deeper insights into how the game is played and appreciated across different levels and regions.