Did you know that the first leather ball was created over 5,000 years ago by the ancient Chinese, and that in Europe, balls made from inflated pig bladders were once popular? Charles Goodyear’s invention of vulcanized rubber and James Naismith’s creation of basketball rules paved the way for the modern game. And did you know that the football (soccer) ball also played a key role in basketball’s early history?

“The Story of the Ball” is an educational journey from ancient civilizations to today’s basketball court. You’ll not only hear fascinating stories but also get the chance to touch a replica of an ancient football — a real, hands-on connection to the history of sport.