Play Basketball Day

Play Basketball Day, celebrated each year on December 2, is a fun, sporty holiday meant to celebrate the game of basketball — encouraging people to get a ball, hit a court, and enjoy a pickup game, practice, or watch the sport.

History of Play Basketball Day

Play Basketball Day was established in honor of James Naismith — the Canadian sports instructor who invented basketball in December 1891.
He created basketball as an indoor game for his students at the YMCA International Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, using peach-baskets for hoops and a soccer ball.

As basketball grew rapidly in popularity around the world, December 2 was chosen as a day to encourage participation and celebrate the sport in all its forms — casual hoops with friends, gym practice, or simply watching your favorite team.

Why Play Basketball Day matters

Basketball is more than a game — it’s a way to stay active, build teamwork and enjoy friendly competition. Observing Play Basketball Day highlights the sport’s global appeal, its capacity to bring people together, and the fun of movement, health, and community.

It also reminds people — whether longtime players or curious first-timers — that basketball is accessible: you only need a ball, a hoop (or a makeshift goal), and a bit of space to start. Celebrating the day helps invite more people to engage with a sport that’s inclusive and energizing.

• It encourages people to get active through a fun, accessible sport.
• It helps build connections and teamwork among friends, family or community members.
• It offers a chance to try basketball even if you are new to the sport.
• It celebrates the history and invention of basketball.
• It spreads appreciation for a sport played worldwide.

How to Celebrate Play Basketball Day

Celebrate by grabbing a basketball and heading to a nearby court — public parks, school gyms, or community centers work great. Invite friends or family for a pickup game, practice shooting or dribbling, or just aim for some fun fitness.

If you prefer watching, tune into a live basketball game or watch a classic match or basketball-themed film. You can also use the day to discover new aspects of the sport — learn its history, rules, or try a different variation like streetball.

• Organize a pickup basketball game at a nearby court or park.
• Practice shooting, dribbling or ball-handling skills solo or with a friend.
• Watch a basketball game — live, on TV, or a classic famous match.
• Introduce basketball to someone new — teach basics or play casually.
• Share a post or photo of your basketball day with friends or on social media with #PlayBasketballDay.

Play Basketball Day Dates Table