Playing sports has been emphasized since the school-going age of a child. Basketball encourages one to live an active and healthy life and develop talent in academics. However, this has been a recreational activity for a long time. The sports equipment used at that time might not have been as modernized or developed as they are today, yet it was still prominent among people of all classes. Despite the popularity, sports were treated as mere recreational activities and were looked down upon as a career opportunities.
The mindset took a long time to evolve with the many career prospects that it has to offer. The global sports market reached an impressive value of around $388.3 Billion as of 2020. Rio Olympics and Common Wealth games are an example of international sports events. Many events are conducted at every level (district, state, national, etc.). Among these sports, it is Basketball is considered the most paid sport.
What You Will Learn
Market Value
One of the top 3 sports, with $90 Billion worth of market value, Basketball is the richest sport. Having viewers across the globe, the USA, China, Philippines, and Canada have the most basketball fans. What makes the sport the highest paid is the salary paid to the players, which ranges from a few million. This is due to the endorsements and sponsorship contracts that were given to them. Top players earn an even higher amount.
LeBron James
That is why the wealthiest sportsperson, LeBron James, is also a basketball player. His net worth is said to be 100 crore USD which portrays the popularity of Basketball. Learning a sport and mastering it requires considerable funding; this has been made possible due to changes in people’s mindsets. The respect gained by the sports industry is tremendous and helps build more and more sportspersons every year.
History of Basketball
The history of Basketball goes back to 1891, when a 31-year-old physical education teacher, James Naismith, came up with a game to play indoors. Due to the storm, football and other such could be dangerous to play inside confined spaces. James turned to the janitor for boxes to act as goals. The janitor brought in two square beach baskets, which Naismith nailed at two ends of the gymnasium.
The balcony rail where the boxes were fixed had a height of about 10 feet. The game’s aim was the same as today: playing in 2 teams and trying to bring the ball to their team’s basket. However, the only difference was the absence of any rules. This is why the first basketball game ended up in a brawl. Students kicked and punched to get the ball, and a few ended up with a black eyes. This convinced James not to let the students play the game again.
However, upon insistence, he decided to play the game once again. Although, this time, he had made rules that players would have to adhere to. These had a few modifications over time, and the game was set to become a global phenomenon.
One of the most admirable things about sports is the fan base and support from the audience. Basketball is a sport that has a commendable fan base spread across people of all ages. The game’s on-the-edge-of-your-seat moments, transitions, and fast-paced nature make it fun to watch. As there is no extra equipment required, people also find a connection between sports they could play back at home and relate to watching their favourite players. Moreover, the game can be played anywhere and is easy to begin.
With the NBA’s significant contribution to creating the hype and fan base for Basketball, the numbers have been skyrocketing, making it one of the most-watched basketball leagues. This has developed an immense love for the players among the audience.
You can find basketball fans worldwide, discussing, cheering, and enthusiastic about every basketball conversation. One of the best ways people showcase their love for their favourite sport is through merchandise. Sports merchandise of premium quality and clear prints will make you flaunt your favourite team in a relaxed and comfortable manner. You can find basketball merchandise on Sports Merch’s website and get amazing discounts on their splendid collection!
With the ever-growing love and support that Basketball gets, it is incredible how sports have gained an impressive fandom. With global supporters and immense help and funding, the dynamics of sports have changed. Now, a promising lucrative career, sports have ample opportunities that are not limited to the players. There are umpires, coaches, editors, and so much more. This has developed a positive image and did sports more than a pastime.
