|
History of Basketball
Basketball was invented in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith. The school chairman of the physical education department at the School for Christian Workers (now Springfield College ), Luther Gulick wanted to find an activity that would keep the athletes of the school active in spite of the winter weather. Dr. Naismith created 13 rules for the game and divided the athletes into two teams. The goal was to get the ball into the baskets which he'd had the janitor hang onto the balcony railings on the opposing sides of the school gym. Then, they played the game using a soccer ball and two peach bushel baskets. Many changes have occurred since the creation of the game. The ball used is now specially created for the game. Originally the balls were made of two pieces of leather sewn over a rubber bladder. Later, the basketball was specially molded for the sport, beginning in 1942. They made a big difference in the performance of the game. Other changes were in the rules. Originally a player could not run with the ball in his hands, nor could he dribble the ball and shoot. A player would need to pass the ball once he dribbled it, so that his team mate could make the shot. Now, players have the option to either pass or shoot but they must dribble the ball, not just run with the ball in their hands. Fair play was a major concern to Dr. Naismith. His rules specified that there should be no shouldering, pushing, striking or tipping of any opponent. The ball had to be handled at all times with the open palm; the use of the fist was a foul. Three consecutive fouls meant that the opposite team scored a goal as long as they had not scored a foul themselves between the times any of the fouls had been committed. The rules may have been modified to make the game more fair for all players but it has not changed the basic equipment. It has also not changed the heart of the game - teamwork. It is also still fun! |
|
|
|
||
