The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been an important part of American culture since its beginning. The fan base has continued to grow over the decades, with a more global following than ever before. Not to mention the role of modern technology, which has meant more integration of the game into the home. More and more people can watch the fast-moving superstar players from the comfort of their own homes, which is why many iconic basketball players are known as common household names. Many names were spotted in college leagues, but there are some interesting ways in which basketball has become more modernized as time has progressed.
One of the most common sources of revenue within the NBA is player brand deals and sponsorships. The second biggest is betting because there are very high levels of skill on display and the competition is always tense until the end. For more information, check out the NBA betting odds. These are 6 interesting facts that you might not know about the NBA.
- Women’s NBA
Also known as the WNBA, the women’s professional basketball league was formed in 1996. The twelve teams compete throughout the year similarly to the traditional NBA games, and games are often played in the same arenas as male players.
2. Celtics and Knicks are the only teams to have never moved
Throughout NBA history, teams have consistently relocated depending on the needs of players and spectator numbers. To save money, some teams even share training bases with other local teams in order to make use of the available resources. That is why it’s even more impressive that the Celtics and Knicks are the only teams to have never moved.
3. Air Jordans were once banned from the NBA
Nike developed their sneakers with the rookie Micheal Jordan, although they were received with a great deal of criticism and controversy. In spite of being designed for the basketball court, Jordan’s iconic shoes were against uniform regulation due to their red color. Teammates are specifically required to wear sneakers in the same color as their uniform, and that match those of other players. Nike pushed the marketing with Jordan, and children soon became keen to get a pair of “banned” shoes. Eventually, the NBA allowed them to be worn by players, although it was met with a lot of fines.
4. The shortest and tallest players in the NBA once played for the same team
Muggsy Bogues 5’3” once went through the legs of another player and is still a record-breaking height. This is what has made some of Bogues’ victories even more impressive. Playing with the Washington Bullets 1987 league alongside one of the tallest players in NBA history, Bogues made quite the statement next to Manute Bol. At 7’7’’, Bol was another impressive addition to the team, and the height difference of over two feet made entertaining and exciting viewing.
5. 60% of NBA players became broke after 5 years
This is an especially interesting fact because players often see great financial gain at the beginning of their career, followed by a rapid decline as it ends. For many, they might not have the best financial knowledge and tend to pay for lavish items while not really understanding the need to save. This doesn’t apply to all NBA players, as many appreciate saving for the future, but it can definitely be overwhelming to suddenly be earning triple figures.
6. In NBA history, only 2 games have been played on Christmas Eve
We all know that the season sees one year-end and the next begin, but it’s impressive that in over 70 years, only two games occurred on Christmas Eve. Players often object to this because of the traveling and energy required, and that they would rather be doing traditional activities with family or friends. This is part of the reason why the cycle is designed to avoid games falling around Christmas time nowadays.
To summarize, the NBA has an interesting history of rule-breaking and diversity. The influence of some superstar players is not a small one, and mass advertising and media coverage have certainly helped make the NBA what it is today. Fans continue to celebrate their favorite teams through collectibles and custom patches.
There is no denying that basketball is one of the greatest and most popular sports in America. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or are relatively new to the game, knowing all of these fun facts about the NBA will guarantee you a more enjoyable experience watching your favorite team capture the victory!
So why not dive deeper into this knowledge: learn basketball terms and their definitions, brush up on some classic slams, three-pointers, and other plays from the past, it’s a great way to have fun with friends! So, you can hold a knowledge contest among friends and then set up unique awards and award Medals to the winners like the NBA.
If you enjoyed this article check out these links for further reading
10 NBA Players Who Never Won A Ring But Should Have
The NBA Economy: How Basketball Contributes to the American Economy