Basketball Popularity Worldwide

Although its origins began in North America, basketball has become an international favorite. Around the world, amateurs and professionals alike enjoy this sport.

Basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith who was a physical education professor, originally from Canada. Later, college basketball was established at the University of Kansas by Naismith, who coached there for six years. The first collegiate game occurred on February 9, 1895 between Hamline University and the University of Minnesota. Since then, the sport has spread in popularity all over the world. Today, people of all ages, genders and races play basketball. From the most novice player to the most experienced professional athlete, basketball is engrained in cultures worldwide.

In 1932, the International Basketball Federation was formed by a handful of countries. Currently a total of 214 nations are members of the organization, which regulates international play of the game. From equipment specifications to game rules, the organization oversees and governs basketball competition internationally.

Mens basketball was first incorporated in the Olympic Games during 1936 in Berlin. Played outdoors, the United States defeated the Canadians. Since then, the Americans have been dominant in the world basketball competitions. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, a total of twelve countries worldwide qualified for mens basketball. These teams included: Angola, Argentina, Australia, China, Croatia, Germany, Greece, Iran, Lithuania, Russia, Spain and the United States. The United States took gold, while Spain came out with Silver and Argentina held bronze.

Womens basketball is gaining in popularity as well. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, twelve teams competed as well, including Brazil, Mali and Korea. The United States, Australia and Russia took home the gold, silver and bronze medals respectively. Children all over the world are aspiring for basketball greatness.

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