How it works, what you need to know

Handball will return to the world stage this summer at the Paris Olympics, giving American fans a fleeting chance to witness the elite level of a sport they likely associate with high school gym class. And with similarities to basketball, lacrosse and soccer, among other popular American team sports, they might just like what they see.

Here’s what you need to know about handball at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

When did handball become an Olympic sport?

With the exception of the one-time addition of “field handball”, which was played outdoors, men have competed at the Summer Games since 1972. The women’s event was added in 1976.

How does Olympic handball work?

A handball court looks vaguely like a basketball court, with one line down the middle of the court and a distinct semi-circular goal area (similar to the key in basketball) around the goal (instead of the hoop). The goal itself resembles a soccer or lacrosse goal.

The rules of handball require more frequent passing, but allow more steps without dribbling than basketball. The goal is to get the ball past the goalie and into the net, but without (or before) putting your foot in the goal area – resulting in some acrobatic shots, unleashed as players fly into the goal area.