Basketball was invented in the United States in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith. It has evolved into a globally popular sport known for its fast pace and dynamic play. The sport improves cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and teamwork, and is beneficial for both adults and children. For adults, it enhances agility, speed, and strategic thinking, while for children, it fosters physical development and social skills. Key movements include dribbling, shooting, and passing, with hands being used in about 95% of the actions.