Basketball – The birthplace of the ball in the basket in Springfield

The history of the famous sport began with its invention in 1891 by Canadian physical education instructor James Naismith. He was a 31-year old graduate student when he created the indoor sport in Springfield, to keep athletes indoors during the winters.

The game became established fairly quickly and grew very popular as the 20th century progressed, first in America and then in other parts of the world. After basketball became established in American colleges, the professional game followed.

**The original 1891 “Basket Ball” court in Springfield College. It used a peach basket attached to the wall**

Featured Image: James Naismith working at the Springfield YMCA in Massachusetts in 1891. The YMCA later became Springfield College

Websites: springfield.edu, fiba.basketball, hoophall.com