| Topic | Key Facts |
|---|---|
| World Basketball Day | Celebrated annually on December 21, marking the first basketball game (1891). |
| UN Recognition | Officially declared by the United Nations in 2023 to highlight basketball's global impact. |
| Founder | Invented by James Naismith (1891) as an indoor winter sport using a soccer ball and peach baskets. |
| Global Popularity | Estimated 3.3 billion people follow or play basketball worldwide. |
| Evolution | Transitioned from a slow indoor game to a fast-paced sport with professional leagues (NBA, FIBA, Olympics). |
| Social Impact | Promotes peace, inclusion, youth development, education, and healthy lifestyles. |
| Accessibility Issues | Many communities lack safe courts, equipment, and structured training programs. |
| Cultural Influence | Shapes fashion, music, and pop culture, especially among youth. |

