General
bucket
What does bucket mean?
A single made field goal. Also used for the basket/hoop itself.
"Big bucket to tie it up with 30 seconds left."
Origin
Old nickname for the basket, dating to peach-basket origins of the game.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bucket in basketball?
A bucket is a single made field goal; the word can also refer to the hoop itself.
Why is a basket called a bucket?
It dates back to the peach-basket origins of the game, when a bushel basket served as the first hoop.
What does 'big bucket' mean?
It's a clutch made shot at an important moment, such as one that ties or takes the lead late in a game.
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