A little reason to celebrate
National Basketball Day
Fun · History · November 6
A day for basketball, the indoor game of hoops, dribbling and passing that fills driveways, gyms and city courts across the country.
National Basketball Day falls on Friday, November 6, 2026. That is 10 days away.
Basketball is a game of two teams, one ball and two hoops set ten feet off the ground. Players move the ball by dribbling or passing, and they score by shooting it through the opponent's basket. It was invented in the United States by James Naismith, who wanted an indoor game to keep students active through the winter.
The first version used peach baskets, which meant someone had to fetch the ball after every score. The open net came later and saved a great deal of climbing.
Part of the game's appeal is how little it needs. A ball and a hoop are enough, and a single player can spend an hour working on free throws while the light fades. Pickup games form on park courts with whoever shows up, and the rules get settled on the spot. Gym floors squeak, chain nets rattle, and a good bank shot makes a sound people remember.
The day can be marked on a court or from a couch. Some people shoot around at a local park or school yard, some play a round of H.O.R.S.E. with a friend, and others watch a game or read about the players who shaped the sport. A driveway hoop with a slightly bent rim counts as a proper court for these purposes.
If you play, a ball that bounces back to roughly waist height when dropped from your head is usually inflated about right.
Ways to celebrate
- Shoot free throws at a local park court.
- Play a game of H.O.R.S.E. with a friend or family member.
- Watch a basketball game, live or on television.
- Read about James Naismith and the early days of the game.
- Teach a kid how to dribble with either hand.
Dates
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Friday, November 6 |
| 2027 | Saturday, November 6 |
| 2028 | Monday, November 6 |
| 2029 | Tuesday, November 6 |
| 2030 | Wednesday, November 6 |
All national days on November 6
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Categories: Fun daysHistory days