James Naismith BY ALEX

His Beginnings James Naismith, the man given credit for inventing basketball, was actually a Canadian. He was born in Almonte, Ontario, on 6, 1861. His parents were John and Margaret Naismith, but sadly they died of a disease when James was young. Eventually, he and his siblings were adopted.

Education James had an outstanding amount of education which made him suitable for many jobs. He first went to McGill University for 3 years (where he was also employed). Later he went to the Presbyterian Theological College in Montreal to expand his education. All in all James’ education was more than qualified to teach physical education.

Work James taught physical education for a living. From 1887 to 1890 he worked at McGill University (which is also coincidentally where he was educated when he was younger). Later on in Naismith's career he became the physical education teacher for the YMCA training school in Springfield, Massachusetts, from 1890 to 1895. In conclusion ,James Nasmith had a long and exciting career that eventually led him to invent the sport of basketball.

Inspiration James’ inspiration came from his work. Physical education was getting less popular, and it was his job to create a new sport to keep young men interested in the subject. He first decided on using a ball the size of a soccer ball, but instead of kicking it, you would throw and pass it like in football. After much modifying, James had created the sport known as basketball. In the beginning, the ball was thrown into a peach basket.

James’ First 13 Rules for Basketball - Part 1 On December 21, 1891, Naismith created thirteen rules for basketball. They are as follows: The ball may be thrown in any direction with one or two hands. 2. The ball may be batted in any direction with one or two hands ( Never the fist ) 3. A player cannot run with the ball. 4. The ball must be held in or between the hands; the arms or body must not be used for holding it must not be used for holding it.

James’ First 13 Rules for Basketball - Part 2 5. No shouldering, holding, pushing or striking in any way. The first time a player physically assaults another player that player will be given a foul , if the player attempts the same action again that player will be suspended until the next goal if any. 6. A foul is striking at the ball with the fits. 7. If one team has 3 fouls in a row it counts as a point for the other team.

James’ First 13 Rules for Basketball Part 3 8. A point is scored if the ball is thrown or batted into the basket and stays there. 9. When a ball goes out of bounds it is thrown into play by the person first touching it. 10.The umpire shall be judge of the men and shall note the fouls and notify the referee when fouls have been maid. 11.The referee shall be judge of the ball and shall decide if the ball is in play. 12.The time shall be two 15 minute halves with a 5 minute break between. 13.The with the most goals during the time is declared the winner.

Bibliography “James Naismith.” 1999. <http://www.allsands.com/Entertainment/People/JamesNaismith “Canadian Inventors.” 1998. <http://www.sternnet.nf.ca/CITE/inventorscanadian.htm#Bigelow 3. “James Naismith Canadian inventor of basketball.” 1999. <http://schwinger.harvard.terning/bios/Naismith.html

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