Volleyball is a team sport played by two teams of six players, separated by a net. The objective is to send the ball over the net to touch the ground on the opponent’s side or make them commit a fault. Each team can touch the ball up to three times before sending it over the net, usually with a sequence of bump (pass), set, and spike (attack). Points are scored when the ball lands on the opponent's court, or they fail to return it properly.

Key skills include serving, passing, setting, attacking, blocking, and digging, requiring coordination, agility, and teamwork. Volleyball is popular worldwide, with major leagues and competitions in countries like Brazil, the United States, Italy, Russia, and Japan. The FIVB Volleyball World Championship and the Olympic Games are among the sport's most prestigious international events.

Volleyball began in 1895 in Massachusetts, created by William G. Morgan as a less strenuous alternative to basketball for older YMCA members. It initially combined elements of basketball, baseball, tennis, and handball, and was first called "Mintonette". The game quickly evolved, with the introduction of a net and the concept of volleying the ball back and forth. By 1924, it was demonstrated at the Olympics, gaining international exposure.

Over the years, rules and playing styles developed, including the introduction of powerful spikes and intricate defensive techniques. Volleyball's growth led to professional leagues and significant global tournaments, solidifying its status as a popular team sport.

Volleyball is evolving with technological advancements and shifting global interests. Enhanced training methods using data analytics and virtual reality are expected to refine player skills and strategies. The popularity of beach volleyball is growing, offering a dynamic variant to traditional indoor volleyball. Integration of online streaming and social media platforms will increase accessibility and global fan engagement. Efforts towards inclusivity, like mixed-gender teams and more adaptive volleyball variants, are likely to gain momentum. These trends, alongside the sport's presence in major events like the Olympics, solidify volleyball's role as a diverse and exciting sport with a broad and engaged audience.