Fan questions

Basketball FAQ: Quick Answers

The questions we hear most from Fly Baller readers, answered in a sentence or two. Numbers are current through the 2025-26 NBA season and the 2026 WNBA regular season.

A bronze statue of James Naismith seated with a ball and a peach basket

Naismith statue in Almonte: D. Gordon E. Robertson, CC BY-SA 3.0

FAQ

Who invented basketball?

James Naismith, a Canadian instructor, invented it in December 1891 in Springfield, Massachusetts, using two peach baskets and 13 rules.

How tall is a basketball hoop?

The rim is 10 feet (3.05 meters) above the floor at every level from high school to the NBA.

Who has the most NBA championships as a player?

Bill Russell, with 11 titles for the Boston Celtics between 1957 and 1969.

Which team has won the most NBA titles?

The Boston Celtics, with 18. The Lakers are next with 17.

Who won the 2026 NBA championship?

The New York Knicks, who beat the San Antonio Spurs four games to one. Jalen Brunson was Finals MVP.

Who is the NBA's all-time leading scorer?

LeBron James, who passed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in February 2023 and became the first player past 40,000 points.

Who has won the most NBA MVP awards?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, with six.

Who has won the most WNBA MVP awards?

A'ja Wilson, with five, the latest in 2026.

Who is the WNBA's career scoring leader?

Diana Taurasi, with 10,646 points over 20 seasons with Phoenix.

What is the most points scored in an NBA game by one player?

100, by Wilt Chamberlain on March 2, 1962.

How long is the NBA shot clock?

24 seconds. It was introduced in 1954, partly because of the 19-18 game in 1950.

What was the first Air Jordan?

The Air Jordan 1, released by Nike in 1985.

Is Fly Baller connected to the NBA?

No. Fly Baller is an independent fan brand from Fire Empire LLC, not affiliated with the NBA, the WNBA or any team.

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Sources

Facts on this page were checked against these sources (updated Oct 12, 2026). Spot an error? Email hello@fireempireshop.com.

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