Why do they have to dribble the ball instead of just holding it and running with it?

In basketball, players are required to dribble the ball instead of just holding it and running with it to maintain the fairness and competitiveness of the game. Dribbling is a fundamental rule in basketball that prevents a player from taking too much advantage of their speed or strength and encourages ball-handling skills, teamwork, and strategy.

The requirement to dribble the ball is based on the 'traveling' rule in basketball. Traveling is a violation that occurs when a player takes too many steps without dribbling the ball while in possession of it. This rule is in place to ensure that players do not gain an unfair advantage by running with the ball, which would make it difficult for defenders to keep up and guard the player with the ball.

Dribbling adds an additional layer of skill and challenge to the game, as players must learn to control the ball, maneuver around defenders, and make accurate passes or shots while maintaining a legal dribble. This requirement also encourages teamwork and strategy, as players must work together to advance the ball up the court, create scoring opportunities, and defend against the opposing team.