How Basketball Became a Sport

Basketball was invented by James Naismith. He taught at a YMCA training school, and the students there complained about another boring winter indoors. To keep his students busy, James Naismith came up with a game that could be played indoors. He called it “basketball” because peach baskets were used as hoops to shoot the ball into. Originally, the first basketball was actually a soccer ball! The first ever basketball game was played on December 21, 1891.

The Basics of Basketball

In basketball, there are two teams of five players. Two of these players are wing guards. Their position on the court is just outside of the three-point line. Two other players are the forwards. Their positions are usually on the blocks near the hoop. The last player is the point guard. The point guard is the one that brings the ball up the court. This person decides what plays to make. In basketball, the possession of the ball rotates either when points are made or the ball is stolen from the opposite team. Basketball players play both offense and defense on the court. The game is started by two of the tallest players on both teams jumping for the ball in the center of the court. The other starting players also gather around the center to catch the ball.

Legendary Basketball Players

Bob Cousy is one of the greatest passers and playmakers in NBA history. His nickname was “Mr. Basketball”. He made many great accomplishments during his basketball career. By the time he graduated from Holy Cross College in 1950, he had been an All-American twice and the team’s MVP. Bob Cousy also led the Boston Celtics to six world championships. In 1970, he became a Hall of Famer, a title that he greatly deserved.

Lisa Leslie is a 6’5” All-Star center of the Los Angeles Sparks. She has won championships at every level: high school, college, professional, and international. In high school, she once scored 101 points in just one half! Lisa led the Sparks to two WNBA titles.

Shaquille O’Neal, or Shaq, is the youngest player on the list of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History. Shaq is 7’11” and he weighs 300 pounds. He is one of the most dominant big men in the history of basketball. He brings size, strength, and skill that are rarely seen in a single player; it’s sometimes hardly seen in a team! Shaq helped the Los Angeles Lakers win three titles.

Bethel Park Basketball Teams

The Bethel Park basketball teams are full of determined, dedicated players. Rules are different for different level teams, but there are many rules that are followed by all of the teams. All players must dress up on game days to have a chance at starting. They must be in school on time, they must keep their grades up, and they must stay out of trouble. Bethel basketball players are known for their aggression and sportsmanship on the court. Practices are six days a week, and they often last over two hours long. Thanks to all of this practice, our teams usually have winning seasons.

Let's Go BP Basketball Teams!