How Basketball Became a Global Phenomenon

Basketball, played by millions worldwide, was invented by Dr. James Naismith in 1891 to keep students active indoors during winter. Initially, it involved tossing soccer balls into beach baskets. Over time, the game evolved with new rules like dribbling and smaller teams, leading to the formation of the NBA in 1949. The sport's global spread was aided by American presence in world wars and its inclusion in the 1936 Olympics.

What was one of the first new mechanics introduced to basketball?

How did basketball spread internationally after World War II?