Just like almost any other sport, basketball can be pretty rough on your body. You engage in a lot of intense running, jumping, landing and pivoting, in addition to plenty of lateral movements. All of that puts quite a lot of pressure on your joints, which is why injuries in this sport are very common.
Whether you play basketball recreationally or professionally, protecting your elbows, knees, and other joints is crucial. Apart from the obvious health reasons, having proper injury protection is essential for you to actually enjoy your favorite sport.