What are some of the most interesting basketball facts from history?

Basketball, as we know it today, was invented in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian physical education instructor. Since then, it has become one of the most popular sports in the world. Here are some fascinating facts about basketball:

• Basketball was originally played with a soccer ball.
• The first basketball hoop was a peach basket with the bottom intact.
• The tallest player in NBA history was Gheorghe Muresan, who stood at 7 feet 7 inches tall.
• The shortest player in NBA history was Muggsy Bogues, who stood at 5 feet 3 inches tall.
• Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, was actually cut from his high school basketball team.
• In 1936, basketball was included in the Olympics for the first time.
• Wilt Chamberlain, another legendary player, once scored 100 points in a single game.
• Shaquille O'Neal, a Hall of Fame player, missed more free throws than any other player in NBA history.

These are just a few of the many interesting facts about basketball. Whether you're a fan of the sport or just curious about its history, basketball has a rich and fascinating story to tell.