Basketball, invented by Canadian James Naismith in 1891, has gained significant popularity in Canada, especially with fans of the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors, along with the Vancouver Grizzlies, became the first non-American teams in the NBA in 1995, and the team's history reflects a mix of struggles and successes, particularly in the 2000s. Basketball Canada has an important role in youth development and has seen the national team achieve notable milestones, including eight Olympic appearances since 1936.

1. Introduction Ever since James Naismith invented the sport of basketball in 1891, it has grown in popularity and has been appreciated on an international level. Specifically, basketball has become a recent phenomenon for Canadian fans, with a huge boost in fan appreciation of the Toronto Raptors.

2. History of Basketball in Canada In 1891, a Canadian James Naismith invents the sport. 1936 Canada’s first participation in the Olympic Games with a national team 1954 Canada’s first involvement in the World Championships Canadian women’s team Edmonton Grads dominate the 1920’s, 30’s, and 40’s, including a record 147-game winning steak. In 1995 the expansion teams Vancouver Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors join the NBA, becoming the first two non-American cities. In 2005 Canadian Steve Nash wins the MVP, and again in 2006.

4. NBA Fan Demographics (1)

5. Basketball Canada Team Canada: 8 Olympic appearances since being recognized in 1936 Won silver in 1936 Basketball Canada responsible for programs at international, amateur and grassroots levels as well as charities and youth programs This ensures a solid investment in the youth development programs

7. Demographics of NBA Fans(continued)

8. Team History Team was made as an NBA expansion team in 1995 along with the Vancouver Grizzlies Until 1999 the team struggled to find their rhythm as a unit From 1999-2002 the team made the playoffs three consecutive years 2002-2006 the team struggled as the roster changed dramatically 2006-Present the team has improved ticket sales as they made the playoffs two consecutive years, including an Atlantic Division Championship

10. References http://www.waitingfornextyear.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/raptors.png (Picture Logo) http://gbr.pepperdine.edu/054/NBAFigure3.html (Chart 1 and 2 info) http://images.sympatico.ca/images/Feeds/Prints/Scott%20Carefoot/LETS_NBA/080509-calderon.jpg (Calderon Image) http://www.nba.com/canada/History_of_Basketball_in_Canad-Canada_Generic_Article-18023.html (Background Information) http://www.summerbasketballcamp.com/ (Camp Image) http://www.kshs.org/portraits/naismith_james.htm (Naismith Image) http://www.basketball.ca/en/hm/inside.php?sid=104&id=1694 (Team Photo) http://veoquenoloentiendes.blogspot.com/2007/12/segunda-semana-halloween-chinos-empieza.html (Air Canada Centre Image)