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Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor, invents basketball at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts. He develops 13 basic rules and uses a peach basket as the first hoop. -
The first professional basketball league, the National Basketball League (NBL), is formed but lasts only a few years. -
Basketball is included as an official Olympic sport at the Berlin Games. -
The BAA merges with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form the National Basketball Association (NBA), which becomes the premier professional basketball league in North America. -
The NBA experiences a surge in popularity with stars like Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Michael Jordan becoming household names. -
The "Dream Team," consisting of NBA stars including Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird, represents the U.S. in the Barcelona Olympics and wins the gold medal, significantly raising global interest in basketball. -
Advances in technology and analytics begin to significantly impact coaching, player performance, and team strategy. -
The WNBA (Women's National Basketball Association) continues to grow in popularity and visibility, with increasing support for women's professional basketball globally.