<P> In early December 1891, the chairman of the physical education department at the School for Christian Workers (now Springfield College) in Springfield, Massachusetts, instructed physical education teacher James Naismith, known to many as the inventor of basketball, to invent a new game to entertain the school's athletes in the winter season . Naismith assembled his class of 18 young men, appointed captains of two nine - player teams, and set in motion the first ever basketball game, played with a soccer ball and two peach baskets tacked to either end of the gymnasium . </P> <P> The first purpose - built basketballs were made from panels of leather stitched together with a rubber bladder inside . A cloth lining was added to the leather for support and uniformity (identity). A molded version of the early basketball was invented in 1942 . From 1967 through 1976, the American Basketball Association (ABA) used a distinctive red, white and blue basketball that is still seen from time to time . For many years, leather was the material of choice for basketball coverings, however in the late 1990s, composite materials, like synthetics were put forth and have rapidly gained acceptance in most leagues due to their superior performance in harsh outdoor game conditions . </P> <P> Spalding was the first company to produce a basketball for official use . Company founder A.G. Spalding made the first dedicated basketball in the last years of the 19th century at the behest of James Naismith . It has produced basketballs since that time and has produced the NBA's official game ball since 1983 . They also produce the balls for the Women's National Basketball Association and NBA Development League . The company also produces a wide variety of balls for the consumer market . </P> <P> In 2012, it also became official provider for both the Euroleague and Eurocup competitions . It also serves as provider for Liga ACB . </P>

What type of basketball is used in the nba