Did you know that @sgt-dan was manager of a Division II basketball team 29 years ago?

After I left active duty in the Marine Corps in 1992 I enrolled at Piedmont International University which was known as Piedmont Bible College at the time. Although very fit and six foot tall, I was never very good at sports. So I did my part to be involved in the sports program by becoming manager of the college's basketball team.

My major was physical education with a minor in biblical studies. Although not what one would call an athlete, I always had an interest in how sports became such an integral part of our culture. Let us take a look at the legacy of basketball and its evolution.

Basketball Was Not Invented In Indiana

When many folks think about the history of basketball, Hoosiers (Indiana folk) often come to mind. Contrary to popular belief, the origins of basketball are found in Michigan and by a Canadian Christian Professor, James Naismith who immigrated to the United States. Now @jongolson, @guiltyparties, and @shadowspub have another thing to brag about. A Canadian invented basketball!

Necessity Is The Mother Of Invention

Naismith was looking for a way to keep his athletes fit during the cold winters in New England to where he had immigrated.

Since playing many traditional sports was too rough for the indoors, he had an epiphany. He created a game using a soccer ball and a peach basket nailed up to a wall. Hence the name basketball.

Since it became tedious to fetch the ball after every score, Naismith decided to make a hole in the bottom of the basket. Back then they still needed to use a stick to poke the balls out of the basket.

NCAA Created By A President Of The United States?

In 1905, frequent injuries on the football field prompted President Theodore Roosevelt to suggest that colleges form a governing body, resulting in the creation of the Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the United States (IAAUS). In 1910, that body changed its name to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

—Quoted from Wikipedia

Those who are familiar with the first President Roosevelt will know that he was an outdoorsman and an athlete in his own right.

Online Basketball Betting

Who can talk about a sport without mentioning gambling? There are personal bets on teams and there are even online sites where one can make wagers. This site has a list of places where one can make online wagers:

https://www.casino.org/basketball/

The above is not an affiliate link. I feel I need to make this disclaimer because of folks that do not care for affiliate links and they are minion. I do not get why but I guess I will be Mr. Manners.

There are many more not commonly known things about basketball. It is my hope that those that are publishing on @dunksocial will share their knowledge about this very popular sport! Let us see some podcasts and videos to grow this newest of communities.

As always I wish you and yours blessings and groovy vibes!

Until next time...