Basketball is a popular sport that originated in the United States in 1891. It was invented by Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian physical education instructor, who sought to create an indoor sport to keep his students physically active during the winter months. The game quickly gained popularity, leading to the establishment of organized teams, leagues, and eventually, the NBA. Basketball is played globally today and features a unique combination of athleticism, strategy, and teamwork that captivates millions of fans around the world.