b) James Naismith

Basketball, now a global sport, was invented in 1891 by James Naismith, a Canadian-American physical educator. Seeking a vigorous indoor activity to keep his students active during the winter, Naismith developed a game involving a ball and two peach baskets as goals. The original rules of basketball were simple, but the game quickly evolved. Naismith’s invention was unique in its emphasis on skill and agility over brute strength, making it accessible to a wider range of players. The sport’s rapid spread and evolution into a professional and international phenomenon are testaments to its appeal and Naismith’s innovative thinking. Basketball’s influence extends beyond the court, impacting culture and communities worldwide.