Basket Ball

an American outdoor or gymnasium game. It was invented in 1891 by James Naismith, a member of the Springfield, Massachusetts, Young Men's Christian Association. It is played with a spherical, inflated ball, about ten inches in diameter. At either end of the hall or plot of ground, a hammock net is suspended from a ring about eighteen inches in diameter at a height of ten feet from the ground. The players, who may be of either sex, are divided into two parties or teams. A regular team should consist of at least five members,--a center, two forwards, and two guards. It is considered desirable that each team should wear a color by which its members can be distinguished readily. The game consists in throwing the ball into these nets or goals. Each party has its goal into which its members try to throw the ball. The game is started by an umpire, who throws the ball into the air. It may be struck with the hand, caught, or thrown by any player, but must not be carried, nor must the player touch the ball while it is in the hands of another. When the ball falls, it belongs to the player who first picks it up. It is not allowable to shove or detain a player. A player's progress may be barred by standing in the way. A throw may be obstructed by holding up of arms in front of the ball, or by springing up with outstretched arms. The game is an excellent one.