Baller 21

Motive Behind The Invention Of Basketball

by Chris Harvey on 04/13/07

In 1891 Dr. James Naismith created the game of basketball. What was the motive? Did Naismith envision a game that would become the most watched and played indoor sport in the world? How about becoming a billion dollar industry on the collegiate and professional level?

Naismith’s invention came during the winter when his supervisor of the YMCA asked him to come up with an indoor game to attract young men during the harsh New England winters- in order to share the gospel on a year-round basis. Using a soccer ball, two empty peach baskets, a ladder and ten handwritten rules, the game of basketball began.

In 1889 Naismith applied to be a student at the YMCA Training School at Springfield. One of the questions asked on the application was, “What is the work of a YMCA Physical Director?” He answered, “To win men for the Master through the gym.”

If you love God, people, and sport then that statement will get you pumped up! So many opportunities today for the church to reach the world through recreation and sports ministries.

C.Harv