It’s a celebration in the world of basketball today. The hoop fans around the world are celebrating the inaugural World Basketball Day. Earlier this year, on August 23rd, the United Nations declared that the 21st of December will be celebrated as World Basketball Day in honor of Dr. Dr. James Naismith.

It was on December 21st, 1891 that Dr. Naismith introduced the game of basketball in Springfield, MA. Soon it became popular within the country and now it is one of the most popular sports globally. Fans are not alone in this celebration as NBA stars and veterans are matching their excitement.

The biggest celebration in the basketball world

The game of basketball has truly stood the test of time. Today, neither the sport nor its biggest superstars need an introduction in any corner of the world. This is a product of the relentless efforts that have been made for decades to make this sport a global phenomenon. While basketball is played globally and is an Olympic sport as well, the biggest thing in the world of basketball is the NBA. The league boasts some of the biggest global icons, across sports. The NBA is truly the soul of the sport and despite being centered in America attracts global talent and fan following.

Among countless achievements and milestones of the sport, what creates an authentic dominance is the cultural impact the sport has had. Basketball is played by nearly 600 million people across the world. On this special occasion, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is thrilled to join fans across the world to celebrate. Silver said, “The NBA family is thrilled to join the global basketball community in celebrating the first World Basketball Day. More than 130 years after Dr. James Naismith invented the game at the Springfield YMCA, World Basketball Day is a reminder of basketball’s ability to transcend borders, cultures, and languages and unite people around the world”.

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Devin Booker and JJ Redick join the hoop world in celebration

The Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker shared a post on his Instagram story, celebrating the momentous occasion. Apart from Booker, NBA veteran JJ Redick joined the fans in this celebration.

Redick posted on X, “Today is the UN’s inaugural “World Basketball Day”. Happy celebration to all you Sickos. Truly grateful for this amazing sport.”

The Utah Jazz have launched a special campaign with Jordan Clarkson to mark the day.

The official handle for the Basketball Hall of Fame shared some memorable pictures of “our GOAT Dr. James Naismith”, thanking for creating this beautiful sport.

Fans poured their emotions in replies, showing gratitude toward Dr. Naismith

One fan reflected on the beginnings of the sport and the vision behind it

A simple thank you goes a long way, and an X user and hoop fan did just that

What’s your special memory related to basketball? Tell us what the sport means to you in the comments below.

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