What is what an alley oop is essentially?

An alley-oop is a basketball play where one player passes the ball to a teammate near the basket, who then jumps and catches the ball in mid-air, and scores by dunking or laying the ball up. The term "alley-oop" comes from the French term "allez-oop," which was used by circus acrobats to instruct their partners to lift them higher. It is a high-flying, exciting play that showcases teamwork, athleticism, and coordination between players. Alley-oops are often seen as highlight-reel plays in basketball games and can energize the crowd and momentum of the game.