Today marks the 125th Anniversary of the birth basketball. On December 21st 1891, Canadian Dr. James Naismith, created the sport in Springfield, Massachusetts. Today, basketball is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada and around the world. With thriving national and international programs and events, the game is now being played by millions worldwide.

Brief #Bball125 History

Canadian, Dr. James Naismith created the sport of Basketball in Springfield, Massachusetts USA at the International Young Men's Christian Association Training School (YMCA).

Basketball was originally played with a soccer ball and peach baskets until 1906.

In 1930, basketball was officially recognized as a sport by the International Olympic Committee.

In 1932, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) was founded in Geneva.

Canadian amateur teams have been participating in the sport since the turn of the century.

Canada is home to one of the most storied amateur teams in sport's history, the Edmonton Grads. The gradsswept four consecutive Olympic games from 1924 to 1936 on their way to compiling an insurmountable 96.2 winning-percentage over 35 years.

Toronto, ON played host to the first ever NBA game. On November 1st 1946, the Toronto Huskies took on the New York Knickerbockers.

Canada is currently ranked 7th in the world (combined FIBA world ranking)

Our youth boys and girls are ranked 3rd and 4th respectively

Canada has the most international athletes in the NBA for the 3rd consecutive year

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