| Factor | Netball | Basketball |
|---|---|---|
| Dribbling | Not allowed | Core skill |
| Movement | Footwork rule (fixed foot) | Free with dribble |
| Positions | 7, zone-restricted | 5, free movement |
| Who can score | Only GS and GA | All players |
| Backboard | No | Yes |
| Contact | Non-contact | Limited contact |
| Popular in | UK, Australia, NZ | Global, USA |
Choose Netball when…
You're in the UK, Australia, New Zealand or Commonwealth countries, enjoy positional team play, prefer a non-contact sport, or want the strategic challenge of zone restrictions and footwork.
Choose Basketball when…
You want free movement and dribbling, want all players able to score, prefer the global game, or enjoy the vertical, athletic style of basketball.
Gear for both
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FAQ
Why can't you dribble in netball?
Netball was specifically designed (as 'women's basketball' in the 1890s) to be less physically demanding by removing dribbling and running with the ball. The footwork rule and zone restrictions create a passing-based game emphasising positioning and teamwork over individual ball-carrying.
Why can netball players not move with the ball?
The no-running rule is fundamental to netball's design — players must plant their landing foot on catching the ball and can pivot on it but not take a step. This rule creates a distinctive passing-based game where court vision, positioning, and quick release matter more than individual athleticism. It dates to the early rules adapted from basketball in the 1890s when the game was designed primarily for women's participation in restrictive clothing.
What are the positions in netball?
Netball has 7 positions: Goal Shooter (GS) and Goal Attack (GA) are the only players who can shoot. Wing Attack (WA) and Centre (C) play attacking and transitional roles. Wing Defence (WD) and Goal Defence (GD) defend the opposing attack. Goal Keeper (GK) defends the goal. Each position is restricted to specific zones of the court, which defines the passing patterns and creates specialist roles quite unlike basketball.