Widely regarded as being created by a Canadian in America, the history of basketball often overlooks the role played by the strong Scots heritage and influences that informed James Naismith’s identity, character and values.

Today, America is known globally as the home of basketball and Canada the home of the game’s founding father. These views prevail in organisations worldwide including the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.

The Scots influence

Until 1891, Naismith lived in a “replanted” Scottish community in a Scots-dominated area, living a lifestyle similar to that back home.

In day-to-day life, Naismith spoke with a Scottish accent, used the broad Scots language, and enjoyed traditional Scottish activities such as Highland games. Raised by his parents as a “wee Scot” and brought up with the poetry of Robert Burns, Scottish culture, religion and nationalism were embedded in his identity.