essay on basketball player in english

Basketball Essay for Students and Children

500+ essay on basketball.

The game of basketball has truly become global in the last few years. The game is currently popular in the United States. Also, it is described by many as an American game because of the fun and competitive element in it. Also, this is one of the games which is played indoors and still caters to billions of fans around the world. This game was Dr. James Naismith from Canada. Initially, he invented the game by using a rectangular pitch which was 6 feet wide and 4 feet high. Additionally, the court includes a free throw line which is 12 feet long. In basketball essay, students will get to know about the different components that make the game of basketball special.

It is a team game that has gained immense popularity. Also, the game is played with the help of a ball and the ball is shot into the basket that is positioned horizontally. So, the objective in the game is to shoot the ball and score the maximum points. This game is played by 2 teams that constitute a total of 5 players each. Also, the game is played on a marked rectangular floor that has a basket on both the ends. 

Originally, basketball was played using a soccer ball. Also, it was James Naismith that used a peach basket which ha ad a nonhollow bottom. So, this basket was nailed at a height of 10 ft. above the ground and on an elevated track. If you consider the manual removal of the ball from the basket a drawback then the bottom was removed to and it took the shape of modern-day baskets. Also, dribbling was not part of the game initially. Eventually, it evolved till 1950 by which the balls got better shape due to manufacturing. 

Additionally, the orange ball was evolved from the brown ball. The brown ball was used in the beginning as it was thought that the ball is more visible. By 1996, the peach baskets used were replaced by metal hoops on the backboard. 

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Basketball Game 

At the start of the game, a referee tosses the ball at the center of the court between two players. One player from either team try to get their hands on the ball and the ball is passed on to the teammates. For scoring a point, a team needs to shoot the ball through the basket. If a shot is scored from a distance that is closer to the basket than the 3 point line than it fetches 2 points. Also, if the ball is shot from the distance behind 3 point line, it fetches 3 points. So, the team that has a maximum number of points is declared the winner. 

In case of a draw, there may be additional time allotted to both the teams. In the game, a player is cannot move if he is holding the ball. The player needs to dribble, otherwise, it is considered as a foul. Likewise, when there is a physical contact that affects the other team then it counted as a physical foul. 

Basketball is game played with a maintained and carefully marked court. It is a team sport that is commonly found in many different areas. 

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• Basketball Essay

Essay on Basketball

Basketball is a widely popular and loved sport that is played all around the world. An essay on basketball would be incomplete without the mention of its smart moves and team-building benefits. Basketball is believed to have originated in Canada and the United States of America in the 19th century. There are several health benefits of playing basketball and it is an extremely fun physical activity. In this informative essay about basketball, the various benefits of playing basketball are discussed.

An Essay on Basketball and its Benefits 

While penning down the short paragraph about basketball this needs to be mentioned that when basketball is played, it is meant to be a source of joy and pleasure among its players. The aim of the play is to pass the ball through the basket which is hung on some height. Basketball can be a game between two individuals or, in the case of professional games, it is played between two opposing teams consisting of five players in each team. The score is determined by hitting the basket of each other’s teams. 

Due to the demand for heavy physicality from its players, basketball is highly favored. In this essay on basketball, the several health benefits of playing this sport are discussed:

Basketball is essential in promoting cardiovascular health among its players. It is immensely helpful for one’s heart health. Due to the game’s constant locomotion, the heart rate shows an increase. Thus, basketball lowers the risk of stroke and other heart diseases. 

Basketball is supremely effective in burning calories. Due to its constant, quick movements of running and jumping, basketball acts as a great way of working out and can drastically burn calories. 

Basketball strengthens the bones of its players. Due to the game’s primary dependence on physical energy, basketball results in bone strength among its players. The players’ muscles and bones get strengthened because of the game’s constant action of working muscles against the bones. 

One of the key health benefits which come from playing basketball is boosted immunity and reduced stress. Due to the busy nature of the game, the levels of stress among the players get reduced quite significantly. And with this decreased level of stress, the immune system gets boosted.

The dedicated practice of basketball develops better coordination among its players and improves their motor skills. The nature of basketball demands its players for excellent hand-eye and full-body coordination. Due to continuous training, the players develop their full-body coordination as well as their hand-eye coordination through the practises of dribbling and rebound shots.

Therefore, the health benefits of playing basketball are evident in the physical and mental fitness of the player. Apart from improving one’s overall health and height, the sport also develops fast-thinking abilities, reflex, and team spirit in youngsters.   

Basketball Experience Essay: Tournaments and Players

Now coming to the top basketball tournaments, an essay on basketball is simply incomplete without the mention of these names:

Basketball World Cup

Basketball at the Olympics

American tournaments like NBA, Argentine League LNB

Italian League

Spanish ACB league

To get a full-on understanding of the game and write down a basketball experience essay, one must watch these tournaments. The pace of the tournaments is such that one will automatically grow an addiction towards them. Then, if he is asked to write a basketball descriptive essay he will be able to write it easily.

Basketball essay writing becomes a cakewalk for someone who has grown up watching legends like Kobe Bryant playing the game with elan. The American sportsman spent his entire career playing for Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association. He breathed his last on 26th January 2020. He took the popularity of the sport to a different level and will be remembered for generations to come. 

Finally, if any of the important basketball essay topics are often left out then it has to be- ‘The Famous Indian Basketball Players.’ This basketball essay in English doesn’t do that. It humbly acknowledges the contribution of the famous Indian basketball players like Sat Prasad Yadav, Akilan Pari, and Prashanti Singh. They have made it really big over the years and continue to inspire millions of basketball players from all across the country. 

An Essay on My Favourite Game - Basketball

Basketball is a widely popular game that is played by several people all across the globe. In this section of basketball essay topics, the topics which will be discussed are the benefits of basketball in a person’s physical and mental health. There are several ways a person can benefit from playing basketball and those benefits are discussed in this basketball introduction essay.

The Basketball Essay in Short

Numerous physical and mental benefits result from playing basketball. Basketball is highly effective in promoting the cardiovascular health of its players. A healthy heart diminishes risks of heart diseases later in one’s life. Basketball’s high physical demand is crucial in burning calories and reducing body fat in its players.

Basketball also strengthens the bones due to the constant friction of muscles against them. It improves the immune system of the body and is effective in increasing players’ self-esteem.

Therefore, this is a complete essay on basketball in English which throws light on the game’s health benefits as well as how it helps to shape the entire personality of a player. 

FAQs on Basketball Essay

1. What is the Highest Governing Body in Basketball?

FIBA ( International Basketball Federation) is the highest governing body in basketball.  

2. Name Some of the Famous Basketball Players in the World. 

Michael Jordan, Lebron James, and Late Kobe Bryant are some of the famous basketball players of all time. 

3. Which Court is Considered as the Main Court in Basketball- The Outdoor Court or the Indoor Court?

In basketball, the indoor court is considered as the main court while the game played on the outdoor court is often called street ball. 

4. What are the health benefits of playing basketball? 

Playing basketball results in countless health benefits from burning calories to improving heart health by lowering the risk of getting a stroke. But a great cardiovascular health isn’t the only amazing health benefit playing this sport provides. It also strengthens one’s bones as well as muscles. It also leads to boosting of one’s immune system. And like engaging in almost any other sport or exercise, playing basketball has also shown to reduce the stress levels of its players quite conspicuously. This way, playing basketball also has a positive effect on not only one’s physical health, but their mental health as well.  

5. Who are some of the most famous basketball players? How does this sport shape the personality of its players?

Some of the most famous and highly respected basketball players include LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson, Satnam Singh, Amritpal Singh, and Prashanti Singh to name a few. 

Basketball tends to mould and shape the personality of the players just as much as it improves their physical and mental health. There are a lot of values, ethical beliefs, and other such aspects from the game that one can even apply to their everyday life like sportsmanship, teamwork, confidence, etc. 

6. What are some interesting facts about basketball? 

Initially, as the sport started, dribbling was not allowed at all and if a player got the - ball at a point and they compulsorily had to throw it to another player and continue the game like that. 

A physical education teacher, James Naismith, is the one who invented this sport and also wrote down the very first, the official rulebook of basketball.  

Michael Jordan wore his signature Air Jordans, his favorite shoes, by paying a fine as these shoes went against the guidelines of the NBA dress code. 

At the very beginning of it all, basketball was actually played with a soccer ball and a peach basket. 

7. What are some important rules of basketball? 

Some basic yet key rules of the game are: 

Each team is supposed to have 5 players present on the court at all times during the game. 

In order to win, a team has to score more field goals than the opponent team.

A player is not allowed to run with the ball; a player is only supposed to advance the ball by dribbling or passing and if a player stops dribbling, they have to either pass it or shoot it, not resume dribbling. 

There are quite a lot of fouls in the game and elbowing, blocking, tripping or knocking someone off, are some of the most common ones. 

To inbound the ball, the offense only has 5 seconds. 

Defenders are not allowed to interfere with a shot that is on a downward trajectory. In fact, this is considered to be illegal and is known as goaltending as it grants an automatic field goal to the offence then.

Both the ball handler as well as the ball have to remain within the boundaries of the court at all times. 

The defending team is legally allowed to block or steal the ball from the offending team and they can even use defensive tactics to prevent the latter from shooting and/or scoring. 

Each team has only a limited period of time during a given possession to shoot the ball. While in the NBA, this time limit is 24 seconds, in the NCCA, it is about 30 seconds. 

8. How does Vedantu encourage students to study?

One of the most popular and modern features of Vedantu is its one-on-one live interaction amongst the teacher and their students. As it is known, learning and studying by yourself with the help of the internet, and doing that in the presence of a teaching expert are two majorly different things with the latter being way more effective. This live interaction lets students communicate their thoughts and ideas more smoothly and also helps with the doubt-solving more easily. This social structure within Vedantu is one of the main ways through which it pushes students to study and speak their minds out loud. This is why Vedantu is a highly recommended portal for students to brighten their future. 

Essays About Basketball: Top 5 Examples and 7 Prompts

Among the many essays about basketball out there, how can you make yours stand out? See this article for examples and prompts that will aid you in writing.

Basketball is a famous sport that has been around for 131 years. It was invented by a Canadian physical education instructor named James Naismith with two objectives: to keep athletes playing indoors during winters and to have a safer sport compared to football.

Over the years, basketball has grown to be a loved sport worldwide. It’s why it’s not surprising that it’s a great subject to talk about in your essay.

Below are examples to learn more about the game and how you can effectively write essays about basketball:

1. What Basketball Taught Me by Josh of San Diego, California

2. essay on basketball –  a sport of agility and endurance by randhir singh, 3. national basketball association and the woman national basketball association by lewis rios, 4. basketball: then vs. now by jaime moss, 5. essay on the last shot by darcy frey by mamie olson, 1. the most important skills for basketball, 2. what i learned through basketball, 3. why do i like basketball, 4. my unforgettable basketball experience, 5. my life as a basketball player, 6. basketball book or movie review, 7. the negative side of basketball.

“I believe basketball has taught me many valuable life lessons, and perhaps more importantly, played a significant role in developing me into the successful student and employee I am today.”

The author talks about how he fell in love with the basketball game – from watching it on television to participating in competitive basketball. He took the game with him as he grew. 

Through this sport, he learned many lessons, including commitment, responsibility, and teamwork. He expounds on how these values helped him through life through his essay. Finally, he ends his piece by encouraging others to try basketball or any sport to have motivation in life. For more, see these articles about basketball .

“Basketball is a sport of agility and endurance that develops by hand and eye co-ordination… Basketball even overtakes baseball as the unofficial American pastime.”

Singh reviews basketball rules and how they changed over time but with the same principles. He discusses the main rules and scenarios straightforwardly, making his essay short but informative. You may also be interested in these articles about baseball .

“Some of the differences between NBA basketball and WNBA basketball appear to be related to the differences in size or physical capacity of men and women… I think we can all come to the conclusion that no matter what the gender is or what the rules are, that both of them are out on the basketball court to just WIN.”

Rios’ essay focuses on the differences between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Women’s NBA. Some of the things he mentions are ESPN and their basketball video game, where fewer people spend time on WNBA. Additionally, owners of WNBA significantly make less from their teams, thus having less to invest in or pay their players.

He also talks about some similarities between NBA and WNBA, including their popularity among fans. At the end of his essay, Rios hopes he has shared enough information with his readers about basketball.

“Other changes such as uniform colors, dunking rules, regulation on backboards… some over and over again until they became what they are today… Basketball is a great American sport, and perhaps one that requires the most skill along with a great mental game.”

Moss’ essay consists of James Naismith’s original 13 basketball rules and how these rules evolved. These modifications were done to make the game more efficient and fun. Some significant changes include dribbling, boundary lines, and pointing systems. 

He also mentions the controversy surrounding the three-pointer and how it affected the other game rules. In the future, basketball’s rules will continue to develop.

“I do think basketball is a valid option for most students to escape poverty… Basketball may open a few doors but there’s still no guarantee.”

The author recounts what The Last Shot by Darcy Frey is all about, retelling the story of Russel, Tchaka, Stephon, and Cory, who lived in a dangerous neighborhood and found escape in basketball. She then relays her input of basketball, helping these characters stay out of trouble, but it still isn’t enough to prepare them for the lives they’ll have to endure. 

She further expounds on the events in the book, centering on the direct relation between academics and basketball in the story. You might also be interested in these essays about volleyball .

7 Prompts on Essays About Basketball

After understanding more about the different subtopics of basketball, here are prompts that you can get inspiration from for your essay:

You don’t have to be a basketball player to know what skills are in demand for the game. You can simply be a fan or a casual spectator who knows how the game works. Tell your readers what you are so they can appreciate your essay from your point of view. 

Dedication, commitment, and consistency are only some of the things you develop when you love a sport. If you’re not a player yourself, but a close relative is, you can relay what they told you about basketball.

For example, you can relate to what your father tells you when you watch basketball gameplays with him. He may say he loves a particular team because of their teamwork. He may also say it shows in their gameplay. Then, you can delve into what “teamwork” means.

Like the other prompts in this list, this particular prompt doesn’t need you to be a player. Instead, to give you an idea, you can share your experience with the game, such as watching gameplay and liking how the people cheer for the players.

 You can also narrate how great the game was, not because the players are professionals but because they never give up.

If you’re a basketball player yourself, feel free to recount a scene that played out in one of your games that you will never forget. Describe how you got to that point and why. Include what it made you feel like then and what it makes you feel now. 

If you expect non-players to read your piece, write in a way that non-players will understand by avoiding basketball jargon. Or you can briefly explain what those related terms mean, so every reader will understand why it’s a memory you hold dear.

If no one thing stands out for you during your time as a basketball player, you can still write about it in the general term. For instance, you can share how a day in your life went when you were a player.

There are many books, movies, and literary pieces that you can check out and write an essay about. If you have a favorite piece about basketball, briefly summarize it and list why you’re so fond of it. You can also persuade your readers to check out the book themselves through these prompts.

Are you new to persuasive writing? For help with this topic, read our guide explaining what is persuasive writing ?

You can write about the problems connected to the game to give your essay a different atmosphere, such as the potential injuries for players, bullying within a team, or how few only make it to professional basketball. You can talk about something you want to give attention to and let your readers know your thoughts on it.

On the other hand, you can also share a bad experience related to basketball, like your father preferring to watch basketball on television than play with you and your siblings.

Here’s a great tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Essay on Basketball for Students in English | 500 Words Essay

January 2, 2021 by Sandeep

Essay on Basketball: It is an American sport drawing millions of fans across the world. Dr. James Naismith from Canada first invented the game. It is played by two well-equipped teams consisting of 5 players each. A rectangular floor area with a basket at both the ends marks the field for the game. The team that shoots the maximum number of balls through the basket is declared the winner. A referee carefully monitors the game.

Essay on Basketball 500 Words in English

Below we have provided Basketball Essay in English, suitable for class 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10.

“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” – Phil Jackson

Basketball is a team sport that is played between 2 teams, each consisting of 5 players. The objective of a team is to shoot a basketball through the hoop of the other side, while at the same time, preventing the other team from shooting into theirs. It is played on a rectangular court. Every successful shot earns a team 2 points. If a player is fouled by the other team’s player, then he or she is given one or two free throws. At the completion of the playtime, the team with the highest points on the board wins. If there is a tie, then some overtime is also given.

This game was invented by an American gym teacher and was first played in December, in the year 1891. It originated in Massachusetts, United States. Dr James Naismith created the sport to keep his physical education class active on a very gloomy, dull and rainy day. He initially tied a peach basket to a 10-foot pole and made his class play with a football. It is mostly played in an indoor court, but the usage of outdoor courts is also quite popular now. It is a sport that is also played in the Olympics, the summer Olympics and the Paralympics.

Players generally move the ball by either passing it or dribbling it. There are a number of shots that are presumed in the offensive position including the jump shot, the lay-up shot and the dunk shot. While assuming the defensive position, players can either try to steal the ball from the other team or jump and block their shots. The tallest player generally assumes the centre most playing position. The highest association that governs basketball is FIBA (International Basketball Federation). The NBA (National Basketball Association) is the most significant professional basketball league with respect to salaries, popularity, the talent of players and the level of competitiveness.

Variations of Basketball Game

People have created different types of ways in which they play basketball with alterations in rules and environments.

Recreational Basketball – It is played in schools, colleges and other educational institutions. The focus here is not on winning a game but enjoying oneself and having fun. The students are taught basic skills of basketball, including dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding, etc. and are also trained in endurance exercises to stay fit and healthy.

Disabled Basketball – This is played by people who do not qualify to play in the able-bodied sport. It is played by persons who are either deaf or crippled. In deaf basketball, sign language is used to communicate whistle blows for fouls, successful shots, etc. and for communicating with other players. Wheelchair basketball is played by people who have lost the ability to walk and run due to paralysis, amputation, birth defects, or any other cause.

Prison Basketball – It is mostly played in prison and penitentiary institutions in the United States. These prisons have their own leagues, and a lot of betting also takes place. It helps the prisoners to spend their time and remain fit and active. Prison basketball is quite a popular sport among the inmates, and they enjoy being a part of it. Playing the game is equally thrilling as being an audience to it.

Show Basketball – It is played by professional teams that add drama, comedy and athleticism in it and is pre-prepared. It is performed for entertainment like theatre in front of an audience. Celebrities also play in show basketball often for charity events. Midgets or people of smaller stature also become a part of it for entertainment purposes.

Benefits of Playing Basketball

One of my favourite sports to play in school and college was basketball. I enjoyed playing it for several reasons. Basketball helps improve blood circulation in the body and is a fantastic exercise. It helps us to keep fit and also betters oxygen circulation throughout the body.

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Favorite Sport — My Favourite Sport: Basketball (in 150 words)

My Favourite Sport: Basketball (in 150 Words)

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Published: Mar 17, 2023

Words: 152 | Pages: 0 | 1 min read

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How to Write a Non-Cliche College Essay About Sports + Examples

What’s covered:, what makes a sports essay cliche.

• How To Make Your Sports Essay Unique

Great Examples of College Essays About Sports

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You’ve been brainstorming essay topics for your college applications, and you think you’ve finally found the right one: an extended metaphor likening your experience on the field with overcoming personal struggles. The problem: many other students have this same thought. 

The purpose of a college essay is to make yourself stand out as a unique individual, but when students write about sports, they often blend in. Because of that, students are usually advised to pick a different topic.

That being said, it is possible to write a non-cliche college essay about sports if you put in a little extra effort. Read along to learn how to make your sports essay different from all the other sports essays.

Sports essays are cliche when they follow a standard trajectory. Some of these trajectories include writing a story about:

• An agonizing defeat
• Forging bonds with teammates
• Overcoming adversity
• Overcoming an injury
• Refusing to quit
• Victory during a big game

Because sports essays have very similar themes and “lessons learned,” it can be difficult to make your story stand out. These trajectories also often focus too much on the sport or storyline, and not enough on the writer’s reflections and personality.

As you write your essay, try to think about what your experience says about you rather than what you learned from your experience. You are more than just one lesson you learned!

(Keep in mind that the sports essay is not the only college essay cliche. Learn about other essay cliches and how to fix them in our complete guide).

How to Make Your Sports Essay Unique

1. focus on a specific moment or reflection..

The college essay is a way for students to humanize themselves to admissions officers. You do not feel human if you are describing yourself as just another player on the field!

One important way to make your essay about you (not just about sports) is by focusing on a specific moment in time and inviting the reader to join you in that moment. Explain to the reader what it would be like to be sitting in that locker room as you questioned the values of the other players on your team. Ask your reader to sit with you on the cot in the trainer’s room as your identity was stripped away from you when they said “your body can’t take this anymore.” Bring your reader to the dinner table and involve them in your family’s conversation about how sports were affecting your mental health and your treatment of those around you.

Intense descriptions of a specific experience will evoke emotions in your reader and allow them to connect with you and feel for you.

When in doubt, avoid anything that can be covered by ESPN. On ESPN, we see the games, we see the benches, we even see the locker rooms and training rooms. Take your reader somewhere different and show them something unique.

2. Use sports to point out broader themes in your life.

The main risk when writing about sports is neglecting to write about yourself. Before you get started, think about the main values that you want to express in your sports essay. Sports are simply your avenue for telling the reader what makes you unique. 

As a test, imagine if you were a pianist. Would you be able to talk about these same values? What if you were a writer? Or a chemist? Articulating your values is the end, and sports should simply be your means.

Some values that you might want to focus on:

• Autonomy (you want to be able to set your mind to anything and achieve it on your own)
• Growth (you seek improvement constantly)
• Curiosity (you are willing to try anything once)
• Vulnerability (you aren’t afraid to fail, as long as you give it your all)
• Community (you value the feedback of others and need camaraderie to succeed)
• Craft (you think that with deliberate care, anything can be perfected)
• Responsibility (you believe that you owe something to those around you and perhaps they also owe something to you)

You can use the ESPN check again to make sure that you are using sports as an avenue to show your depth.

Things ESPN covers: how a player reacts to defeat, how injuries affect a player’s gameplay/attitude, how players who don’t normally work well together are working together on their new team.

Things ESPN doesn’t cover: the conversation that a player had with their mother about fear of death before going into a big surgery (value: family and connection), the ways that the intense pressure to succeed consumed a player to the point they couldn’t be there for the people in their life (value: supporting others and community), the body image issues that weigh on a player’s mind when playing their sport and how they overcame those (value: health and growth).

3. Turn a cliche storyline on its head.

There’s no getting around the fact that sports essays are often cliche. But there is a way to confront the cliche head-on. For example, lots of people write essays about the lessons they learned from an injury, victory, and so on, but fewer students explain how they are embracing those lessons. 

Perhaps you learned that competition is overwhelming for you and you prefer teamwork, so you switched from playing basketball to playing Dungeons & Dragons. Maybe, when your softball career ended abruptly, you had to find a new identity and that’s when you became obsessed with your flower garden and decided to pursue botany. Or maybe, you have stuck with football through it all, but your junior-year mental health struggle showed you that football should be fun and you have since started a nonprofit for local children to healthily engage with sports.

If your story itself is more cliche, try bringing readers to the present moment with you and show why the cliche matters and what it did for you. This requires a fair amount of creativity. Ensure you’re not parroting a frequently used topic by really thinking deeply to find your own unique spin.

Night had robbed the academy of its daytime colors, yet there was comfort in the dim lights that cast shadows of our advances against the bare studio walls. Silhouettes of roundhouse kicks, spin crescent kicks, uppercuts and the occasional butterfly kick danced while we sparred. She approached me, eyes narrowed with the trace of a smirk challenging me. “Ready spar!” Her arm began an upward trajectory targeting my shoulder, a common first move. I sidestepped — only to almost collide with another flying fist. Pivoting my right foot, I snapped my left leg, aiming my heel at her midsection. The center judge raised one finger. 

There was no time to celebrate, not in the traditional sense at least. Master Pollard gave a brief command greeted with a unanimous “Yes, sir” and the thud of 20 hands dropping-down-and-giving-him-30, while the “winners” celebrated their victory with laps as usual. 

Three years ago, seven-thirty in the evening meant I was a warrior. It meant standing up straighter, pushing a little harder, “Yes, sir” and “Yes, ma’am”, celebrating birthdays by breaking boards, never pointing your toes, and familiarity. Three years later, seven-thirty in the morning meant I was nervous. 

The room is uncomfortably large. The sprung floor soaks up the checkerboard of sunlight piercing through the colonial windows. The mirrored walls further illuminate the studio and I feel the light scrutinizing my sorry attempts at a pas de bourrée, while capturing the organic fluidity of the dancers around me. “Chassé en croix, grand battement, pique, pirouette.” I follow the graceful limbs of the woman in front of me, her legs floating ribbons, as she executes what seems to be a perfect ronds de jambes. Each movement remains a negotiation. With admirable patience, Ms. Tan casts me a sympathetic glance.   

There is no time to wallow in the misery that is my right foot. Taekwondo calls for dorsiflexion; pointed toes are synonymous with broken toes. My thoughts drag me into a flashback of the usual response to this painful mistake: “You might as well grab a tutu and head to the ballet studio next door.” Well, here I am Master Pollard, unfortunately still following your orders to never point my toes, but no longer feeling the satisfaction that comes with being a third degree black belt with 5 years of experience quite literally under her belt. It’s like being a white belt again — just in a leotard and ballet slippers. 

But the appetite for new beginnings that brought me here doesn’t falter. It is only reinforced by the classical rendition of “Dancing Queen” that floods the room and the ghost of familiarity that reassures me that this new beginning does not and will not erase the past. After years spent at the top, it’s hard to start over. But surrendering what you are only leads you to what you may become. In Taekwondo, we started each class reciting the tenets: honor, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, courage, humility, and knowledge, and I have never felt that I embodied those traits more so than when I started ballet. 

The thing about change is that it eventually stops making things so different. After nine different schools, four different countries, three different continents, fluency in Tamil, Norwegian, and English, there are more blurred lines than there are clear fragments. My life has not been a tactfully executed, gold medal-worthy Taekwondo form with each movement defined, nor has it been a series of frappés performed by a prima ballerina with each extension identical and precise, but thankfully it has been like the dynamics of a spinning back kick, fluid, and like my chances of landing a pirouette, unpredictable. 

Why it works:

What’s especially powerful about this essay is that the author uses detailed imagery to convey a picture of what they’re experiencing, so much so that the reader is along for the ride. This works as a sports essay not only because of the language and sensory details, but also because the writer focuses on a specific moment in time, while at the same time exploring why Taekwondo is such an important part of their life.

After the emotional image is created, the student finishes their essay with valuable reflection. With the reflection, they show admissions officers that they are mature and self-aware. Self-awareness comes through with statements like “surrendering what you are only leads you to what you may become” and maturity can be seen through the student’s discussion of values “honor, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, courage, humility, and knowledge, and I have never felt that I embodied those traits more so than when I started ballet.” These are the kinds of comments that should find their way into a sports essay!

“Advanced females ages 13 to 14 please proceed to staging with your coaches at this time.” Skittering around the room, eyes wide and pleading, I frantically explained my situation to nearby coaches. The seconds ticked away in my head; every polite refusal increased my desperation.

Despair weighed me down. I sank to my knees as a stream of competitors, coaches, and officials flowed around me. My dojang had no coach, and the tournament rules prohibited me from competing without one.

Although I wanted to remain strong, doubts began to cloud my mind. I could not help wondering: what was the point of perfecting my skills if I would never even compete? The other members of my team, who had found coaches minutes earlier, attempted to comfort me, but I barely heard their words. They couldn’t understand my despair at being left on the outside, and I never wanted them to understand.

Since my first lesson 12 years ago, the members of my dojang have become family. I have watched them grow up, finding my own happiness in theirs. Together, we have honed our kicks, blocks, and strikes. We have pushed one another to aim higher and become better martial artists. Although my dojang had searched for a reliable coach for years, we had not found one. When we attended competitions in the past, my teammates and I had always gotten lucky and found a sympathetic coach. Now, I knew this practice was unsustainable. It would devastate me to see the other members of my dojang in my situation, unable to compete and losing hope as a result. My dojang needed a coach, and I decided it was up to me to find one. 

I first approached the adults in the dojang – both instructors and members’ parents. However, these attempts only reacquainted me with polite refusals. Everyone I asked told me they couldn’t devote multiple weekends per year to competitions. I soon realized that I would have become the coach myself.

At first, the inner workings of tournaments were a mystery to me. To prepare myself for success as a coach, I spent the next year as an official and took coaching classes on the side. I learned everything from motivational strategies to technical, behind-the-scenes components of Taekwondo competitions. Though I emerged with new knowledge and confidence in my capabilities, others did not share this faith.

Parents threw me disbelieving looks when they learned that their children’s coach was only a child herself. My self-confidence was my armor, deflecting their surly glances. Every armor is penetrable, however, and as the relentless barrage of doubts pounded my resilience, it began to wear down. I grew unsure of my own abilities.

Despite the attack, I refused to give up. When I saw the shining eyes of the youngest students preparing for their first competition, I knew I couldn’t let them down. To quit would be to set them up to be barred from competing like I was. The knowledge that I could solve my dojang’s longtime problem motivated me to overcome my apprehension.

Now that my dojang flourishes at competitions, the attacks on me have weakened, but not ended. I may never win the approval of every parent; at times, I am still tormented by doubts, but I find solace in the fact that members of my dojang now only worry about competing to the best of their abilities.

Now, as I arrive at a tournament with my students, I close my eyes and remember the past. I visualize the frantic search for a coach and the chaos amongst my teammates as we compete with one another to find coaches before the staging calls for our respective divisions. I open my eyes to the exact opposite scene. Lacking a coach hurt my ability to compete, but I am proud to know that no member of my dojang will have to face that problem again.

In the beginning, you might think this is another cliche sports essay about overcoming adversity. But instead, it becomes a unique statement and coming-of-age tale that reads as a suspenseful narrative. 

The author connects their experience with martial arts to larger themes in their life but manages to do so without riffing off of tried-and-true themes. Through statements like “I knew I couldn’t let them down. To quit would be to set them up to be barred from competing like I was” we learn about the students values and their desire to be there for those who depend on them. 

The student also brings it full circle, demonstrating their true transformation. By using the “Same, but Different” ending technique , the student places themself in the same environment that we saw in the intro, but experiences it differently due to their actions throughout the narrative. This is very compelling!

“1…2…3…4 pirouettes! New record!” My friends cheered as I landed my turns. Pleased with my progress, I gazed down at my worn-out pointe shoes. The sweltering blisters, numbing ice-baths, and draining late-night practices did not seem so bad after all. Next goal: five turns.

For as long as I can remember, ballet, in all its finesse and glamor, had kept me driven day to day. As a child, the lithe ballerinas, donning ethereal costumes as they floated across the stage, were my motivation. While others admired Messi and Adele, I idolized Carlos Acosta, principal dancer of the Royal Ballet. 

As I devoted more time and energy towards my craft, I became obsessed with improving my technique. I would stretch for hours after class, forcing my leg one inch higher in an effort to mirror the Dance Magazine cover girls. I injured my feet and ruined pair after pair of pointe shoes, turning on wood, cement, and even grass to improve my balance as I spun. At competitions, the dancers with the 180-degree leg extensions, endless turns, and soaring leaps—the ones who received “Bravos!” from the roaring audience—further pushed me to refine my skills and perfect my form. I believed that, with enough determination, I would one day attain their level of perfection. Reaching the quadruple-pirouette milestone only intensified my desire to accomplish even more. 

My efforts seemed to have come to fruition two summers ago when I was accepted to dance with Moscow’s Bolshoi Ballet at their renowned New York City summer intensive. I walked into my first session eager to learn from distinguished ballet masters and worldly dancers, already anticipating my improvement. Yet, as I danced alongside the accomplished ballerinas, I felt out of place. Despite their clean technique and professional training, they did not aim for glorious leg extensions or prodigious leaps. When they performed their turn combinations, most of them only executed two turns as I attempted four. 

“Dancers, double-pirouettes only.” 

Taken aback and confused, I wondered why our teacher expected so little from us. The other ballerinas seemed content, gracing the studio with their simple movements. 

As I grew closer with my Moscow roommates, I gradually learned that their training emphasized the history of the art form instead of stylistic tricks. Rather than show off their physical ability, their performances aimed to convey a story, one that embodied the rich culture of ballet and captured both the legacy of the dancers before them and their own artistry. As I observed my friends more intently in repertoire class, I felt the pain of the grief-stricken white swan from Swan Lake, the sass of the flirtatious Kitri from Don Quijote, and I gradually saw what I had overlooked before. My definition of talent had been molded by crowd-pleasing elements—whirring pirouettes, gravity-defying leaps, and mind-blowing leg extensions. This mindset slowly stripped me from the roots of my passion and my personal connection with ballet. 

With the Bolshoi, I learned to step back and explore the meaning behind each step and the people behind the scenes. Ballet carries history in its movements, from the societal values of the era to each choreographer’s unique flair. As I uncovered the messages behind each pirouette, kick, and jump, my appreciation for ballet grew beyond my obsession with raw athleticism and developed into a love for the art form’s emotive abilities in bridging the dancers with the audience. My journey as an artist has allowed me to see how technical execution is only the means to a greater understanding between dancer and spectator, between storyteller and listener. The elegance and complexity of ballet does not revolve around astonishing stunts but rather the evocative strength and artistry manifested in the dancer, in me. It is the combination of sentiments, history, tradition, and passion that has allowed ballet and its lessons of human connection to become my lifestyle both on and off stage.

This essay is about lessons. While the author is a dancer, this narrative isn’t really about ballet, per se — it’s about the author’s personal growth. It is purposefully reflective as the student shows a nice character arc that begins with an eager young ballerina and ends with a reflection on their past. The primary strength of this essay is the honesty and authenticity that the student approaches it with.

In the end, the student turns a cliche on its head as they embrace the idea of overcoming adversity and demonstrate how the adversity, in this case, was their own stereotypes about their art. It’s beautiful!

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

This essay uses the idea of sports to explore a more profound topic—growing through relationships. They really embrace using sports as an avenue to tell the reader about a specific experience that changed the way they approach the world. 

The emphasis on relationships is why this essay works well and doesn’t fall into a cliche. The narrator grows not because of their experience with track but because of their relationship with their coach, who inspired them to evolve and become a leader.

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Essay On Basketball – 10 Lines, Short And Long Essay For Children

Key Points To Note: Essay On Basketball For Lower Primary Classes

10 lines on basketball for kids, a paragraph on basketball for kids, short essay on basketball in english for children, long essay on ‘my favourite sport is basketball’ for kids, what will your child learn from this essay, interesting facts about basketball for kids.

One of the most popular topics for English composition is an essay on basketball for classes 1, 2 and 3 kids. Writing a basketball essay in English is fun for kids as sports is an interesting subject to write on. We all know sports play an important part in the development and growth of a child. Every child plays one or more kinds of sports in their school and with friends. However, basketball is one sport that most kids play. It can be played between two teams or two kids in a playground, court, or backyard.

Most kids in lower primary classes enjoy playing basketball, but they struggle when it comes to writing an essay on basketball in English. Here are some key points that will help them to write essays on basketball easily:

• Write in brief about basketball.
• Explain its rules, terminology, how is it played, etc.
• Benefits of playing basketball.
• Write the reasons for liking basketball.

Writing a basketball essay for classes 1 and 2 may be difficult initially. Here are a few lines to help them write an essay on basketball:

• Basketball is my favourite sport.
• This popular sport is played across the world.
• It can be played between two players or two teams.
• The player has to dribble the ball, run and jump to play this game.
• We can play it on a basketball court or in our backyard with a net ring.
• The players must dribble the ball and put the ball through net rings to score.
• The team that scores the maximum points wins the game.
• It is a game that boosts team building.
• Running and jumping makes the players strong.
• Most kids love this game.

Here, we have a short paragraph about basketball that is easy to remember. This simple paragraph can be used by kids to write an essay on basketball.

Basketball is a world popular sport. It is played in many different countries. The smart moves and physical activity make it a fun sport. It is believed that basketball originated in the USA in the 19th century. Usually, basketball is played between two teams with five players each. However, for a friendly match, the count of the players can vary. For example, it can be played between two players or more than five players in a non-professional setting. There are many variations of the game. The team that scores the most points wins the match. This sport promotes good physical health and team building. Therefore, it’s no wonder it is one of the most popular sports.

Here we have a short essay for classes 1, 2 and 3 on basketball. They can take reference from this to write an essay on basketball:

Basketball is one of the most popular physical sports in the world. In most countries, it is played on a professional level. It is a great sport because of the clever team techniques and fun physical effort. Basketball is said to have originated in the 19th century in the United States. Basketball is usually played between two teams, each with five players. A friendly match, on the other hand, can be played between two players or more than five players. The game can be played with a lot of variations. To score points, each team needs to put the ball in the net ring of the opposite team. The players need to dribble, run, and then jump to put the ball through the net ring. The team with the highest goals or baskets wins the game. The game has several positions, and the team gets divided based on those positions. Basketball is a team game, where the whole team has to play as per rules. Players breaking the rules attract penalty points. This sport encourages physical fitness as well as teamwork. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular sports worldwide.

Class 1 or 2 students are asked to write short essays. However, an essay for class 3 students is longer. Here is a long essay on basketball for kids:

I play many sports, but basketball is my favourite. I have played basketball with my elder brother since I was 3. We had a basketball net ring in our backyard. As I played basketball at home, I could easily make it to the junior basketball team in school. I am one of the youngest players on my school team. Let’s talk about the points like history, types, and benefits that made me a big fan of this game.

History Of Basketball

Basketball is an indoor sport invented by a Massachusetts professor at Springfield College. It was created by James Naismith in December 1891. James Naismith created this game for his students because they were bored during winter. So, he developed a game that everyone could play inside.

Types Of Basketball Games

Basketball can be played in different variations in many environments with a different set of rules. Some types of basketball games are:

• Recreational Basketball –  This type of basketball is played in schools and colleges. It aims at teaching students basic basketball skills with no winning or losing.
• Disabled Basketball – This was developed for people who cannot play the general basketball sport.
• Prison Basketball –  This type of basketball was developed for people in prison or penitentiary institutions.
• Show Basketball – This type of basketball is aimed at entertaining the audience, like a drama. It is a pre-planned activity, and many celebrities, and professional players, play for charity events.

Benefits Of Playing Basketball For Kids

Playing basketball has numerous health and other benefits for kids. It is a great sports game to stay active and fit. Playing basketball strengthens bones and muscles and boosts immunity, making us strong. We also learn team spirit and team building by playing basketball

How To Play Basket Ball – Terminology And Rules

Basketball is played with a set of rules and terms. It is a two-team game where both teams compete to score the maximum points. Each team has twelve players; where five players play, and seven are seated on the bench. A team can score one, two, or three points by successfully shooting the ball in the hoop. A basketball game is divided into four twelve-minute quarters, for a total game length of forty-eight minutes.

One popular term is draft choice, referring to a player chosen to play for the NBA’s 30 clubs. A free throw means a throw from the end of the line, and a personal foul is when a player makes physical contact with a player from the opposite team.

From an essay about basketball, your child will learn in detail about the sport. As they write the essay, besides the structuring of such essays, they will understand the game and how to play it in depth. They will also see the health benefits of playing basketball.

 Some interesting facts about basketball:

• Basketball played on an outdoor court is called street ball.
• The game of basketball was invented by James Naismith in 1891.
• Initially, in basketball dribbling wasn’t a feature.
• The farthest basketball shot was made by Joshua Walker in 2022.
• Earlier, basketball was played with a soccer ball or football.

1. Which Is The Highest Governing Body Of Basketball?

The highest governing body of Basketball is the FIBA (International Basketball Federation).

2. Who Are Some Famous Basketball Players In The World?

Some famous basketball players are Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Lebron James.

3. What Are The Major Tournaments In Basketball?

The major Basketball tournaments are:

• Basketball World Cup
• Italian league
• Spanish ACB league

Basketball is a popular sport worldwide, played both professionally and recreationally. The flexibility of the sport with its fun tactics makes it a favourite sport for millions of kids.

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Essay on Basketball

Basketball, a game that resonates with energy, strategy, and passion, is more than just a sport; it’s a symbol of teamwork, determination, and athletic excellence. This essay delves into the essence of basketball, its significance, and how it can be effectively discussed in essay writing competitions.

The Genesis of Basketball

Basketball was invented in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, a physical education teacher in Springfield, Massachusetts. Seeking a game to keep his students active during the winter, Naismith developed a sport that required skill, strategy, and physical prowess. The original game involved shooting a soccer ball into peach baskets nailed to an elevated track.

Understanding the Game

Basketball is played between two teams, each aiming to score by shooting a ball through the opponent’s hoop. Key elements include:

• Rules and Regulations : The game follows specific rules regarding dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending.
• Positions and Roles : Players assume positions like guards, forwards, and centers, each with unique responsibilities.
• Scoring System : Points are scored through field goals, three-pointers, and free throws.

The Global Impact of Basketball

Basketball has grown into a global phenomenon, thanks to:

• Professional Leagues : The NBA (National Basketball Association) in the United States is the most prominent, featuring star athletes and a massive fan base.
• International Presence : Basketball is a significant part of the Olympics and has leagues and fans worldwide.
• Cultural Influence : It influences fashion, language, and lifestyle, transcending the boundaries of sport.

Writing About Basketball

For students, writing about basketball offers various angles:

• Historical Perspective : Discuss basketball’s evolution and its impact on sports history.
• Personal Narratives : Share experiences or inspirations derived from playing or watching basketball.
• Analytical Approach : Analyze strategies, game mechanics, or the role of technology in basketball.
• Cultural Impact : Explore how basketball reflects and shapes cultural and social dynamics.

The Significance of Basketball

Basketball teaches valuable life lessons:

• Teamwork and Collaboration : Success in basketball requires seamless teamwork and cooperation.
• Discipline and Dedication : It demands rigorous training, discipline, and dedication.
• Overcoming Challenges : The sport embodies the spirit of overcoming obstacles and striving for excellence.

The Psychology of Basketball

• Mental Agility : Basketball not only tests physical skills but also demands mental sharpness and quick decision-making, mirroring the need for these skills in daily life.
• Stress Relief and Emotional Well-being : Engaging in basketball can be a form of stress relief, promoting mental health and emotional well-being.

Basketball and Community Building

• Local and Global Communities : Basketball courts often serve as community hubs, bringing together diverse groups and fostering a sense of unity.
• Youth Development : For many youths, basketball is a gateway to learning teamwork, discipline, and self-esteem, often providing alternatives to negative influences.

The Evolution of the Sport

• Technological Advancements : From improved training methods to analytics in game strategy, technology continues to revolutionize how basketball is played and coached.
• Changes in Playing Style : The evolution of basketball strategies, like the increased emphasis on three-point shooting, reflects how the game adapts and grows over time.

Ethical and Social Aspects

• Role Models : Basketball players often become role models, influencing young people’s attitudes and behaviors.
• Social Issues : The sport has been a platform for addressing social issues, with players and associations taking stands on matters such as racial equality and justice.

Environmental Influence

• Indoor vs. Outdoor Courts: Indoor courts provide controlled conditions, such as temperature and lighting, ensuring consistent gameplay. Outdoor courts are subject to weather conditions like wind and rain, which can affect shooting accuracy and ball control.
• Temperature and Humidity: Extreme temperatures can affect players’ endurance and performance. High humidity may lead to sweaty palms and slippery ball handling.
• Altitude: Playing at higher altitudes can result in reduced oxygen levels, affecting players’ stamina and causing fatigue more quickly.
• Court Surface: The type of court surface, whether hardwood, concrete, or asphalt, can impact ball bounce, player agility, and the risk of injuries.
• Wind: Outdoor games can be influenced by wind, affecting the trajectory of shots and passes. Wind speed and direction can be critical in long-range shooting.
• Lighting Conditions: Inadequate lighting in indoor or outdoor courts can hinder player visibility and impact shooting accuracy.
• Noise Level: Crowded and noisy indoor arenas can create distractions for players and impact communication on the court.
• Weather-Related Challenges: Outdoor games can be disrupted by adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or strong winds. This can lead to slippery court surfaces and unpredictable ball behavior.
• Elevation Changes: Playing in locations with significant elevation changes, such as on hilly terrain, can pose additional physical challenges for players.
• Climate and Geography: The local climate and geography can influence playing style. For example, players from regions with hot and dry climates may have different conditioning needs compared to those from colder or more humid regions.
• Air Quality: Poor air quality, often exacerbated by pollution or natural events like wildfires, can affect players’ respiratory health and overall performance.
• Court Size and Dimensions: The size and dimensions of the court can vary, affecting playing styles and strategies. Smaller courts may lead to more fast-paced games, while larger courts can favor teams with strong passing and shooting abilities.
• Time Zones: Teams traveling across different time zones may experience jet lag, which can impact their performance, especially in critical games.

The Future of Basketball

• Global Growth : The sport continues to expand globally, with increasing participation and interest in countries worldwide.
• Women in Basketball : The growing prominence of women’s basketball is reshaping the sport, highlighting issues of gender equality and opportunity.

In conclusion, basketball is more than just a sport; it’s a dynamic, fast-paced game that demands skill, teamwork, and strategy. This essay has provided valuable insights into how to write about basketball effectively, offering tips and guidance to help aspiring writers capture the essence of this beloved sport. By following these suggestions, one can convey the excitement and intricacies of basketball while engaging readers with compelling narratives.

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The Basketball Game Essay

A basketball is a well designed sphere-shaped ball. In addition, the ball contains an inner rubber bladder that varies in shape in accordance with the size of the ball.

The ball’s inner material is always inflated to ease its usage. A basketball is a vital component in the game of basketball at the playing field, commonly referred to as a court and the basket (Dean 24). A basketball is dribbled on the surface and therefore design addresses its state in terms of handling and durability.

The interest of the basketball game solely rests on the handling of the ball. Spinning and rolling the basketball in different styles before making a basket varies with the size of the ball. The lighter the basketball, the easier it is to roll the ball in the court.

Basketball is a game that is dominating the world. It is among the most viewed sports in the entire universe. The popularity of this sport is mainly in the west; organization of leagues in the western states has grown the fun base rapidly.

It has drawn the interest of the young and old in an equal measure. A basketball is designed uniquely to suit its usage; there are those used in-doors and those meant for outdoor usage (Dean 25). Material for making the ball varies according to the aforementioned variation in usage.

The evolution of a basketball started in the 19 th century. Initially soccer ball played the role of this ball before its invention (James 11).

The soccer ball texture was not satisfactory to the game as the ball’s specifications disadvantaged the hands, leading to many injuries. Legal suits from the soccer firms necessitated the development of a ball unique to basketball. The mother design composed of leather and a rubber bladder in the inside. To distinguish it from the soccer ball, the inventors wrapped it with a cloth lining.

Different environments called for unique balls, this called for additional innovations in the material and designs of basketball. In the 20 th century, various trials were done and composite materials were unanimously accepted in the different leagues for use in the manufacturing of balls (James 17).

Leather and rubber are the preferred material for making indoor and all-surface balls respectively. Leather basketballs are more expensive than rubber balls because of the durability in use and cost of acquiring them. Outdoors environment are harsh and therefore necessitates the use of a material that is fully adapted to the surrounding. The balls surfaces vary in texture but have one thing in common, they have a small air opening in its surface to aid in inflating and deflating.

In addition, the surface of the ball is recessed to different manufacturer’s designs and variety of colors used to make it attractive. Moreover, the surface contains the logo of the traditional manufacturer or the individual logo presented during its development (Forrest 134).

A basketball comes in different weights and circumferences. These unique specifications vary in different leagues. According to basketball certifying body, International Basketball Federation, men’s competition basketball is termed as size 7 while female’s balls are size 6.

The amount of pressure is another factor that is looked into by a certifying body before the basketball is used in a given league. For a basketball to be certified, manufacturer’s name and a unique serial number need to be incorporated in the surface of the ball. Professionalism is highly valued by the International Basketball Federation, therefore the material used in the manufacturing of a basketball needs to meet the requirements postulated.

Basketball associations formulate the measures to be taken into consideration when designing a basketball (Forrest 57). The strictness of these measures varies from one association to another. National Basketball Association (NBA) for example allows the use of basketballs from a single manufacturer. The association, from 2006, has been using synthetic balls that replaced the initial leather balls.

The adoption of different basketball changes with the requirements of the sport. Spalding, the parent company that supplies the balls to NBA, has always designed balls that meet both the federation’s and player’s requirements (Randall 142). The color of this association is orange and therefore most of the basketballs produced by Spalding are orange, though they produce a mixture of orange and white for Women National Basketball Association.

A basketball from the aforementioned description is unique in different aspects. However, the name of the game is the same. Basketball attributes vary in relation to the requirements of a given league. The rankings of these leagues are also determined by the specifications of the basketball used in their practice and games (Forrest 146).

A basketball that incorporates the requirements of most of these corporations needs to be moderated for the competition to operate in the same platform. A basketball’s size and texture needs to cope with the play requirements and be conducive to the players by using appropriate materials. To be arrived at, different federations need to harmonize their requirements with the establishment of a product with international features in their minds.

Works Cited

Dean Oliver. Basketball on paper: rules and tools for performance analysis . New York: Potomac Books, Inc., 2004

Forrest, Allen C. Basketball . Delhi: Sterling Publishers, 2003.

James Naismith. Basketball: its origin and development . Springfield: Nebraska Press, 1941.

Randall Parr. Basketball fundamentals with a twist. New York: AuthorHouse, 2011

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• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2019, May 7). The Basketball Game. https://ivypanda.com/essays/a-basketball/

"The Basketball Game." IvyPanda , 7 May 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/a-basketball/.

IvyPanda . (2019) 'The Basketball Game'. 7 May.

IvyPanda . 2019. "The Basketball Game." May 7, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/a-basketball/.

1. IvyPanda . "The Basketball Game." May 7, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/a-basketball/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Basketball Game." May 7, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/a-basketball/.

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Essay on Favourite Sport Basketball

Students are often asked to write an essay on Favourite Sport Basketball in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Favourite Sport Basketball

Introduction to basketball.

Basketball is a fun game played by two teams. Each team tries to score points by throwing a ball into a high hoop. It is a popular sport around the world.

Playing the Game

Players run, jump, and pass the ball to their teammates. They need to be quick and work together to win. The game is fast and exciting.

Why I Love Basketball

I love basketball because it is thrilling and keeps me fit. It also teaches me about teamwork and helps me make new friends. Watching basketball games is enjoyable too.

Basketball is my favourite sport because it is not only fun to play but also great for making friends and staying healthy.

250 Words Essay on Favourite Sport Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport loved by many people around the world. It is played with two teams, and each team tries to score by throwing a ball into a hoop. The hoop is ten feet high, and it’s exciting to see players jump and reach to score points.

The game starts with a jump ball, where the referee throws the ball high, and one player from each team jumps to get it. This is how they decide who gets the ball first. Players dribble, which means bouncing the ball while running, and pass to their teammates to move the ball towards the hoop. When they get close, they try to shoot the ball into the hoop to score.

Why Basketball Is Fun

Basketball is fun because it is fast and full of action. Players must be quick and work together to win. It also helps people stay fit because it involves a lot of running and jumping. Fans love to watch basketball because it can be very thrilling, with teams often scoring many points.

Learning from Basketball

Playing basketball teaches important lessons like teamwork and hard work. Teammates must support each other and play together to succeed. It also teaches players to be strong and not give up, even if they are losing.

Basketball is a fantastic sport that brings joy and excitement to both players and viewers. It is a game that teaches valuable life skills and is a great way to stay healthy and active. That’s why basketball is a favorite sport for many people, including school-going students.

500 Words Essay on Favourite Sport Basketball

Basketball is a sport that has won the hearts of millions around the world. It is a game that involves two teams, each trying to score points by throwing a ball through the opponent’s hoop. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. The sport is famous for its fast pace, thrilling moments, and the skill it requires to play. It’s not just a sport; for many, it’s a favorite way to have fun, stay fit, and make friends.

The Basics of the Game

The game is simple to understand. Each team has five players on the court. The main goal is to score by shooting the ball through a hoop that is 10 feet high. When a player makes a shot from close to the hoop, they score two points. If they shoot from behind a line called the three-point line, they get three points. One point is given for each successful free throw, which is awarded after certain fouls. The game is split into four periods, and the team with the most points at the end wins.

Why People Love Basketball

One reason why basketball is so loved is because it’s exciting to watch and play. Players show off their skills by dribbling, passing, and shooting in ways that amaze fans. It’s a game that requires teamwork, strategy, and quick thinking, which makes it thrilling to see teams work together to win. Also, because basketball courts are common in schools, parks, and gyms, it’s easy for kids to play and practice.

Health Benefits

Playing basketball is great for health. It makes you run, jump, and keep moving, which is good exercise. This helps to build strong muscles and bones, and it also improves heart health. Playing basketball also teaches coordination and balance. Since it’s a team sport, it helps players learn to work with others and build social skills.

Learning Life Skills

Basketball is more than just a game; it’s a way to learn important life skills. It teaches values like discipline, as players must practice regularly to improve. It also teaches the importance of teamwork, as no one player can win a game alone. Players learn to deal with wins and losses, which can help them handle success and setbacks in life.

Famous Basketball Players

Basketball has given us many heroes. Players like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant have become legends. They inspire young players with their skill and dedication to the sport. Their stories of hard work and success encourage kids to dream big and work hard in whatever they choose to do.

In conclusion, basketball is a favorite sport for many good reasons. It’s fun, easy to start playing, and can be played almost anywhere. It helps keep people healthy and teaches valuable life lessons. Whether you play it, watch it, or just cheer for your favorite team, basketball is a sport that brings people together and creates lasting memories. For all these reasons and more, basketball holds a special place in the hearts of sports lovers around the globe.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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• Essay on Favourite Sport Badminton
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The $25m fraudster who came so close to buying an English football club

In the first of our series about the men who want to buy English football clubs, this is the remarkable story of Chris Kirchner, who came close to taking over Derby County and was then found guilty of fraud and money laundering.

This week, we will examine five prospective investors and what their interest in English football says about their ambitions and the game itself.

Valentine’s Day 2023 and, just after dawn, Chris Kirchner’s world begins to crumble.

A group of FBI agents have arrived at the gates of his family home in Westlake, Texas, less than a mile from the exclusive Vaquero Country Club, and begin seizing the trappings of his wealth.

A Rolls-Royce Cullinan and a Mercedes-Benz G-Class are among the items confiscated, along with five luxury watches and a Cartier necklace. Close to $600,000 (£475,000 at today’s rates) is taken from personal accounts in Kirchner’s name, as well as artwork and 57 bottles of wine.

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The FBI arrested Kirchner too, issuing charges of wire fraud after alleging he had sent millions of dollars from the accounts of Slync, a software start-up he founded in 2017, to his personal account. A $16million Gulfstream jet was among the many things bought with the money of others.

Derby County, the English Football League ( EFL ) club crowned champions of England in 1972 under Brian Clough, had almost become another of his assets.

Nine months before his arrest in the United States, Kirchner still believed he could close out a takeover to rescue the club from administration. He had been named the preferred bidder, considered by administrator Quantuma as the man most likely to prevent Derby from going under. He had been depicted as the club’s saviour, drawing the acclaim of fans.

Like so much of Kirchner’s life, however, it was destined to collapse.

A “life of luxury” had been built by misappropriating his company’s funds. At Kirchner’s four-day trial, held in January this year, evidence showed he had converted at least $25million in investor money to his personal use.

A jury found Kirchner guilty of four counts of wire fraud and a further seven counts of money laundering. Sentencing will take place on July 11 and, already denied bail, he is facing a maximum prison term of 150 years.

The fall of Kirchner has been sudden and spectacular. That he came so close to buying Derby, just a few months after walking away from a similar deal to purchase Preston North End , another Championship club, already seems fanciful.

Kirchner, though, forms part of a broader problem. English football, flush with money, continues to attract the wrong kind of would-be investors. Fraudsters, fantasists and charlatans are queuing up.

“Years ago, it was what sort of car or house do you have?” as one person working at an EFL club put it. “Today, it’s about more. Football clubs are attractive. It’s the one thing that gives you real credibility. The worldwide success of English football makes owning a club a trophy to have.”

Kirchner will not be the first or the last. Many others attempt to squeeze through the vetting process to become football club owners, pushing for control of teams that are better off without the interest.

“He went down this Walter Mitty path and never really had any touch with reality,” says one well-placed source in the deal to buy Derby who, like others in this piece, remain anonymous to protect relationships.

In a Fort Worth courthouse, Kirchner’s reality came crashing down.

Until the gilded walls fell in around him, it could never be said that Kirchner lacked credibility.

He was a young (still only 36), ambitious American, the bold chief executive of Slync, a tech start-up company backed by Goldman Sachs. Within four years of launching in San Francisco’s Silicon Valley, thanks to growth propelled by the Covid-19 pandemic, Slync had been valued at $240million by investors and employed more than 100 staff members.

Kirchner purposely positioned himself as the company’s figurehead and took Slync to places he, as a golf obsessive, wished to go. Justin Rose, the former world No 1 golfer, was among the company’s first commercial sponsorships and was paid $2million annually. That path led Slync towards becoming a lead sponsor of the Dubai Desert Classic in 2021 in a multi-million dollar agreement.

The aim was to grow Slync’s brand but Kirchner enjoyed the perks that came with it. He was pictured playing golf with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy and would turn out in tournaments, including the illustrious JP McManus Pro-Am at Adare Manor in Ireland.

Kirchner was there in 2022 leading Team Slync three weeks before he was fired from his position as chief executive and removed from the company’s board of directors.

Plenty appeared to be taken in by Kirchner’s front, including Yasir Al-Rumayyan, governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), chairman of Newcastle United and another golf enthusiast.

Kirchner visited the Centurion Golf Club in St Albans, on the outskirts of London, in June 2022, where he had a place in the LIV Golf pro-am tournament, a curtain raiser to the Saudi-backed tour’s inaugural event. Sergio Garcia and Ian Poulter, the high-profile European pair, were among Kirchner’s playing partners over 18 holes.

“I saw with my own eyes the rapport he had with Yasir Al-Rumayyan that day at LIV,” said Nigel Owen, formerly the spokesperson of the Black and White Together Derby fans group, who was invited by Kirchner to the Centurion GC.

“We came off the fifth or sixth green and, between there and the next tee, there were two huge blokes stood there, bouncers almost. They part and there’s this little guy behind them and then it twigged with me who it was.

“Chris and Al-Rumayyan greeted one another like long-lost friends. It was a bear hug. If you’re in my shoes, as someone who wanted someone to come and buy Derby County, I’m watching him with people like that and I’m thinking, ‘This guy must be legit’.”

A large media presence was on site to cover the start of golf’s disruptive new era and Kirchner was caught off guard when walking to the clubhouse. Updates on Derby’s takeover were sought amid reports of its collapse. “No comment on that,” he said.

“It’ll come out soon” Chris Kirchner told me last week as he declined to answer our questions about his bid to buy Derby County @dcfcofficial as he finished a round of golf Tonight the US businessman has withdrawn from the process to buy the stricken club out of administration pic.twitter.com/veuBp8mIls — Dan Roan (@danroan) June 13, 2022

Owen, though, was given a different reading on the state of play.

“It was within an hour of that moment he told me that it was done,” he remembers. “The transfer had been made and it was done. I spent the next hour with him in the clubhouse with Phil Mickelson at the next table. He (Kirchner) was ringing people saying it was done. I went away from there believing the money had been transferred. It was all going through.”

Derby, by then, were desperate. Close to nine months had been spent in administration after long-standing owner Mel Morris had pulled the plug on his financial support, triggering points deductions and an inevitable relegation from the Championship.

The future of the club hung in the balance and Kirchner, named as the preferred bidder by administrators in April 2022, offered the only visible promise of salvation. Yet Kirchner always seemed more interested in publicity and acclaim than getting on with the business of making it happen.

While it might have been anticipated that Kirchner would initiate talks with Morris, the American showed little interest in getting around a table with the owner. Morris had become a hate figure for many Derby fans and Kirchner used that to strengthen his position, repeatedly criticising and questioning the man who held the keys to the club.

How buying Gary Neville's house increased Venky's Blackburn Rovers problems

Morris had suspicions about Kirchner and did not appreciate the American’s hostile and standoffish approach. Nor did it escape his attention that few prospective football club owners gave a running commentary on social media.

Kirchner was certainly fond of the spotlight. Over several weeks and months, he interacted with supporters on digital platforms, pledging to fix their stricken club. There was even an interview with Derby’s in-house media. “It kinda feels like home to me,” he said, likening Derby’s vista to “the rolling hills” of his hometown Lexington, Kentucky.

Kirchner attended several home matches across the 2021-22 season and waved to supporters from his padded seat. He would visit pubs on a matchday, accompanied by his wife Ali, and pose for pictures.

Kirchner also met players and staff at the club’s Moor Farm training complex, wearing Derby-branded clothing. Forward Tom Lawrence was pictured visiting Kirchner at his home in Dallas during the summer break.

“Derby were looking for a man of the people and he gave that impression,” says Chris Poulter, former leader of Derby City Council, who was pictured with Kirchner at the Peacock pub before a home game late in the 2021-22 season.

Kirchner had made it his business to ingratiate himself with the council. “He’d completely got them wrapped around his little finger,” says one of the key players in the proposed takeover. “He had charmed them into thinking he was the guy to take Derby forward.”

“It wasn’t for me or any supporter to do due diligence on whether he actually had the money or where it had come from,” says Poulter. “That was down to the administrators and the league. He was being put forward as the preferred bidder and we had no option but to support him in finishing the job.”

What followed bordered on the tragicomic. At 8.45am one Sunday, Morris took a call from an intermediary, a banker, to suggest that it might be worthwhile for the two parties to start communicating.

Kirchner followed that up with a letter to introduce himself and explain that he wanted to buy the club. Morris wrote back to say he found it surprising that it was their first contact but made it clear he was willing to get down to the nitty-gritty of making it happen.

Morris and Kirchner, it transpired, used the same bank. But when the transfer from Kirchner’s account didn’t arrive, there was a stream of excuses.

In a remarkable exchange, an exasperated Morris ended up instructing Kirchner’s camp that, if necessary, he could pass on instructions about how to log on, which page to find, which buttons to press, and how to send evidence of attempted transfers.

But the money was never sent and Morris was left with the overwhelming feeling that the whole operation had been a waste of time. He and Kirchner had not spoken once during the whole process.

Quantuma, the club’s administrator, was not the only party misled. Kirchner worked with Garry Cook, formerly Manchester City’s chief executive and now of Birmingham City , during the negotiations, as well as Paul Stretford, the agent of Derby’s then-manager Wayne Rooney, who called Kirchner “a very good businessman” in October 2021.

There was an undoubted veneer of believability about Kirchner. He had hired the respected legal firm Squire Patton Boggs and senior partner David Hull to act on his behalf during negotiations, and background checks undertaken by the EFL indicated there was no reason to doubt Kirchner had the finances to proceed. The backing of Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs also helped entrench the American’s plausibility.

Rooney offered his public endorsement, too. The manager was popular with the fans and that immediately gave Kirchner an extra layer of respectability.

So convinced of Kirchner’s credentials was Stretford that Triple S, a company where he is listed as a director, stepped in to cover a monthly wage bill of £1.6million in May 2022. That move was investigated by the English Football Association but it says no further action was deemed appropriate.

Stretford would later begin legal proceedings against Kirchner in an attempt to claw back that £1.6million. A winding-up petition against 9CK Sports Holdings, a now-dormant company of which Kirchner is the sole director, was lodged two days after the American’s arrest in February 2023. Triple S was listed as the claimant but that pursuit has been unsuccessful so far.

Triple S said in a statement: “In May 2022, the Triple S Group provided a short-term bridging loan to Chris Kirchner and 9CK. At no point did the Triple S Group provide funding directly to Derby. Recovery of this loan is subject to an ongoing legal process in the UK and U.S. — as such, no further comment can be made.

“The Triple S Group voluntarily disclosed all information to the FA and cooperated with them fully throughout the entire process. The Triple S Group has been open and transparent about this matter from the start.”

Stretford and Cook had also been present for Kirchner’s very public pursuit of Preston at the start of 2022. Cook initiated the contact between the two parties once an initial interest in Derby had subsided in the final weeks of 2021 and, by mid-February, Kirchner attended a home game against Huddersfield Town at Deepdale.

Then came a bid that proposed Kirchner take control of Preston from the club’s long-standing local owners, the Hemmings family. There was a deal to be done at the right price and a willing seller.

There was even broad agreement but Kirchner chose to walk away and back towards Derby. “Ever buy a car?” he would later ask in a social media Q&A. “If someone raises the price halfway through the deal by 10 per cent over what you agreed then wants to force you to buy options and packages you don’t want/need with the car, would you buy it?”

Preston were not amused and, privately, considered Kirchner to be a tyre kicker. The club issued a pointed statement, purposely making no reference to the American.

“The most important point to make absolutely clear is that contrary to suggestions in the public domain, we never increased the asking price from the price and terms included in the originally agreed offer,” it said.

Kirchner was considered a “chancer” by some of those who worked on the deal at Preston. An offer had been made but no proof of funds was ever shown.

“Then he goes back to Derby and says he knew all along it was a bigger club than Preston,” said one figure at the club. “Cheeky.”

Kirchner never hid his ambitions to find a route to professional sport. Golf topped his interests but he followed English football intently. Kirchner claimed it was part of his family upbringing

“When I joined the company, his story was that he was a lifelong fan of Chelsea , that he was open to sponsoring a hospitality suite at Chelsea’s stadium,” Matt Gunn, formerly chief marketing officer at Slync, tells The Athletic.

Kirchner had his eyes on a much bigger outlay by the spring of 2022. “When he went to purchase Derby County, he told his executive leaders, myself included, that it was a personal pursuit he was doing outside of the business and it wasn’t business money,” adds Gunn.

“He said it was a lifelong dream of his to own a football club. To avoid the perception it was a distraction, he even told staff on an all-hands call to the company.”

There were already misgivings within Slync that Kirchner’s apparent commitment to growing the company’s brand was causing a financial strain. Sponsorship of Dubai Desert Classic, a flagship event for golf’s European Tour, had been announced in September 2021 on a multi-year arrangement that would eventually be scrapped 12 months later. There was also a commercial deal with NHL ’s Dallas Stars, with Slync unable to maintain payments by June 2022. It is estimated that project commitments for sports marketing ran to almost $60million.

“We all knew there was a lot of expense involved,” says Gunn. “He was the sole decision maker for the sports sponsorships — the hockey, the golf, the trips to the Masters — and ran those almost as though they were a separate division of the company.

“It was his way of making a bet. Software wasn’t sold by software alone. He thought it was about making big relationships with people.

“Come and play a round of golf with Justin Rose or take them to watch a big tournament like the Dubai Desert Classic. I don’t believe any of his sports interactions led to a single dollar of revenue.”

Kirchner came to be seen as a contradiction by employees; the man who helped build up Slync and the man whose actions threatened to bring it down. There was no questioning his short-term successes as the company’s chief executive, bringing in $57.2m in two funding rounds. Kirchner presented himself as a personable leader on the good days but those who spent time in his company could not miss the little shows of wealth.

“The first time I met him in person was when I flew to Dallas for some meetings with executives and Chris decided to pick us up for lunch in a bright red Ferrari,” says Gunn. “That was pretty unusual for me. He showed me his Richard Mille watch, which he told me he had to speak to a financial advisor before purchasing because it was so expensive.”

Plenty who crossed paths with Kirchner considered him ostentatious.

“One time after a round, there were 10 or so of us in the locker room,” says one close associate from the Vaquero Club, “and he said, ‘OK I need to go pick up my friend in Kentucky on my jet, then we’re flying back here. Does anyone want to come with me, drink bourbon and play cards?’.

“He always loved to talk about his money, where he was on his jet, what elite private course he was playing, name dropping celebrities and athletes left and right like they were his best friends.”

Yet, tellingly, there was also an enigmatic streak to Kirchner. He would claim his source of wealth was cryptocurrency investments, depicting himself as the boy from a blue-collar family who had struck lucky. Kirchner had attended the University of Kentucky but left without graduating, initially working at Best Buy, the American electronics retailer.

Slync, launched in 2017, became his path towards bigger things. The company’s growth, with DHL and Kuehne + Nagel among its early customers, convinced others to buy in and saw millions raised. Kirchner, for a spell, had legitimacy.

The indictment for his arrest, filed on February 5, 2023, claimed he had restricted other Slync employees’ access to financial information, with the chief executive considered the “sole decision maker”.

All investor funds raised during the A and B rounds for “product development and other general corporate purposes” were wired to a Slync Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) account and before the first of those, made in March 2020, that account was overdrawn by $693.21.

Between April and November 2020, the indictment alleged that Kirchner initiated 27 wire transfers from Slync’s SVB account to Slync’s Chase account, of which Kirchner was the sole signatory. Those totalled $2.174million and much of it was moved to Kirchner’s private accounts.

But the money kept coming for Slync. In December 2020, just under $37million was sent to Slync’s SVB account by investors and Kirchner soon moved $20million to his personal account without permission from Slync’s board of directors. He used $16million of that for the deposit and purchase of a Gulfstream G550 private jet.

The indictment papers also outline how Kirchner initiated another 70 wire transfers between January 2021 and March 2022 totalling $6.8million. The last of those came a fortnight before Quantuma named Kirchner as the preferred bidder for Derby County.

Cracks, though, were starting to show in an empire built on sand. Staff at Slync were paid late in April, May and June 2022 and Kirchner set about attempting to claw back money. He convinced four groups to inject $850,000 during a round C fundraiser. Kirchner would later sell his private jet to repay the round C investors.

The end was nigh. Kirchner fired one Slync employee after they had reported to the company’s board that financial performances had been falsely exaggerated and by late July 2022, Kirchner was suspended from his role as chief executive. He then “attempted to delete approximately 18 gigabytes of Slync data, including emails”, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

“All the warning signs were there and I saw it — directly and indirectly — the person that he was,” says Gunn. “I was glad when he was no longer in a position of power with that company but sad in the knowledge that so many people were impacted because of what he’d done.

“Chris stayed in character to the end. The company folded when he counter-sued them to get legal fees paid for. That tells you a lot about who he was. He couldn’t move the money he did and not have a dozen red flags pop up. I can’t believe he could not show remorse for that but then it’s not entirely out of character.”

Slync was wound down at the end of last year.

Derby County were eventually able to see the collapsed negotiations with Kirchner as a blessing. His formal withdrawal came on June 14, clearing the way for local businessman David Clowes to rescue his boyhood club from the threat of liquidation.

“You can look back now and it’s almost laughable in a dark way,” says one member of staff. “Did that really happen? But it almost makes you realise how fortunate we are now with the owner. If the Chris Kirchner deal had gone through, what might have happened?”

A spokeswoman for Quantuma, which selected Kirchner as the preferred bidder to take over Derby, said: “The joint administrators can confirm that the obligations upon them relating to anti-money laundering tests were complied with. The joint administrators are unable to comment on what due diligence processes were undertaken by third parties. There are legal obligations placed upon the joint administrators and other authorities that mean that no further comment can be made.”

Derby County: A normal football club with normal problems once more

Derby, almost certainly, would have been plunged into enormous trouble. Everything Kirchner owned was seized within a year and now he waits on a sentencing that could see him imprisoned for decades.

“I don’t know what his intentions were,” says one senior figure involved in the takeover process. “It was going to go bang at some point. He was introduced by some people inside the club and I suppose that gave him a certain level of credibility that was beyond what he should have been afforded.”

Kirchner had the charm and confidence but none of the money to maintain his life of fantasy.

Additional contributors: Melanie Anzidei, Elias Burke

(Design: Eamonn Dalton; photos: Richard Sellers/PA Images via Getty Images, Robbie Stephenson/PA Images via Getty Images, Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

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