Offense (sports)

In sports, "offense" (also spelled "offence" in some regions) refers to the team or individual that has possession of the ball or puck and is actively trying to score points against the opposing team. The primary objective of the offense is to advance the ball or puck towards the opponent's goal and ultimately score by legally maneuvering the ball or puck into the designated scoring area (e.g., goal, basket, end zone).

The strategies and tactics employed by the offense vary greatly depending on the specific sport. They can involve complex formations, coordinated plays, and individual skill execution. The effectiveness of an offense depends on factors such as player skill, teamwork, strategic planning, and adaptability to the opponent's defense. Common offensive strategies include passing, dribbling, shooting, running, and various forms of set plays designed to create scoring opportunities.

The opposite of offense is defense, which refers to the team or individual attempting to prevent the opposing team from scoring. The terms "offense" and "defense" are relative and continuously shift throughout a game as possession changes.