What action is considered traveling in basketball?

Taking two steps without dribbling the ball is indeed considered traveling in basketball. The traveling rule is designed to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by moving while holding the ball. When a player receives the ball while standing still, they must establish a pivot foot and can only move that foot while dribbling or passing. If they take two or more steps without dribbling, it constitutes a violation, known as traveling, which results in a turnover and gives possession of the ball to the opposing team.

Pivoting on one foot is a legal action as long as the player does not change their pivot foot or take additional steps. Dribbling with one hand is also allowed, as it is an essential part of advancing the ball. Passing to a teammate does not involve any movement with the ball that would constitute traveling, since this action is legal and necessary for effective teamwork in the game.