Two Baskets, One Ball: How a Global Game Was Born!

In celebration of our 1891 Basketball Collection, let's delve into the captivating origin story of basketball—a tale intertwining James Naismith's creativity, the YMCA, and the birth of a global sporting phenomenon.

James Naismith, born on November 6, 1861, in Almonte, Ontario, was a Canadian farm boy with a profound desire to make a positive impact. His journey led him to McGill University, where he earned a theology degree. Influenced by D. A. Budge, the General Secretary of the YMCA of Montreal, Naismith embarked on a path that forever changed sports.

In 1890, Naismith joined the YMCA International Training School in Massachusetts. Dr. Luther Halsey Gulick challenged his class: invent a new game for indoor winter play. Naismith faced a class labeled "incorrigibles," and his determined spirit led him to contemplate games' philosophical aspects. Methodically studying existing team games, Naismith identified key elements. He envisioned a game with a ball, an objective, and goals but sought to eliminate roughness.
The solution came—an innovative horizontal goal inspired by a childhood game called "Duck on the Rock."

On December 21, 1891, in a YMCA gymnasium, Naismith's class witnessed the inaugural basketball game. The success was immediate, and the game quickly gained popularity.

Our 1891 Basketball Collection pays homage to Naismith and the YMCA. Each piece connects you to the historic moment in 1891, featuring a screen-printed design inside the outline of a basketball—a nod to history. Crafted with care, the screen-printed design stands out vibrantly against the classic colours. Whether you choose white or grey for the tees or sleek black for the hoodies and shorts, each item is a canvas narrating basketball's inception.
As you don our collection, you're not just wearing apparel; you're donning a piece of history. The intricate screen-print, the colours, and the design make each item more than just clothing—it's a symbol of your connection to the game's roots. Basketball isn't just a game; it's a legacy, and you are now a part of that narrative.

Source: Basketball : a YMCA invention - World YMCA