In 1891, the sport of basketball was born when a YMCA school teacher in Springfield, MA, struggling to get his restless students' attention during gym, created an indoor game with teams that competed against each other to throw balls into baskets. Rules of the game, started by teacher James Naismith, included no running or moving with the ball, and the bottoms of the baskets hadn't been removed yet. But the game would gain popularity, evolve, and spawn the NBA league, playoff series, March Madness, and even Olympic competitions.
It's fitting that the Naismith Basketball of Fame, where such legends as Larry Bird, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Wilt Chamberlain have been given their due recognition, is located in Springfield, the hometown of basketball. The museum is open for tours and hosts special events.
Getting There
Springfield is a Western MA city located off I-90 (the Mass Pike). To visit the Basketball Hall of Fame from I-90, take Exit 6 (I-291 West) to Exit 1A, I-91 South. Follow I-91 South to Exit 6 (Union Street). Continue on West Columbus Avenue through one set of lights and the Hall of Fame will be on your right, at 1000 West Columbus Avenue.
Other Springfield attractions
Six Flags New England
Dr. Seuss Memorial Sculpture Garden
Springfield Museums
Springfield Armory