The bouncing of the ball. The satisfying swish of a perfect shot. The blaring of the buzzer and roar of the crowds.

The game of basketball has excited players and fans for more than 125 years. This fast-paced game was invented on December 21, 1891, by Dr. James Naismith. From its humble roots in a gymnasium, the game has grown into a global phenomenon, embraced by players and fans around the world. Today, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame carries on Naismith’s vision for his game of “basket ball.”