When Eddie Munson from the popular show “Stranger Things” mocks the school basketball team by saying all they do is “toss balls into laundry baskets,” he’s not quite wrong.
Basketball is one of the only sports with a clearly defined creation story thanks to James Naismith, a young graduate student responsible for teaching physical education at the International YMCA Training school in 1891. During the winter months, his students were confined indoors due to weather conditions; left to participate in marching or apparatus work, it wasn’t nearly as entertaining as football or lacrosse, played in fall and spring respectively.
In order to engage his students, Naismith set out to create an enjoyable indoor game that wasn’t too complex but still engaging. When he asked the janitor for boxes to use as goals, he was given peach baskets found in a supply closet. He hung up the two baskets on opposite sides of a court, and basketball was born.
As the sport grew in popularity, the International Olympic Committee introduced it as an Olympic sport and professional basketball leagues started forming. After fizzling out in 1904, the league was reintroduced in 1934 to combat the American Depression, leading to a steady increase in popularity since then.
The sport remained segregated until 1950, when Chuck Cooper was drafted for the Boston Celtics. Presently, over 70% of professional players are African American, as the sport has effectively integrated all races.
Although the original 13 rules of the game have expanded to over 100, basketball still remains one of America’s favorite pastimes. According to senior shooting guard Sydni Studesville, “I love the bonds I made with my teammates, and I… cannot ask for a better support system.” Basketball has been an integral part of Heritage. In fact, the Lady Patriots’ Basketball team has won five consecutive state titles and are looking to achieve their sixth win this season. The Boys basketball team look forward to redeeming themselves after last season’s quarterfinal playoff loss. With practice beginning this upcoming month, basketball season is back.
The girls basketball team prepares for a new season by running drills daily. (Photo/Cady)
