Dr. James Naismith's invention is a global phenomenon.
The game of basketball has been played in many countries. However, a firm foundation that equals its popularity in America has been limited.
According to McMurry University freshman forward Zach Holden, England, and the United Kingdom are getting closer and closer.
"King George may not be paying much attention to it other than the Olympics," the native of West Sussex said. "Football or what Americans call soccer, cricket, golf, and so on have a more significant hold because they are traditional.
However, a professional league is going in England with several players from the States playing in," he added. "It gets more and more popular every year. It can be tough to find court space because the lack of such official areas is limited. You can find hoops in parks sometimes, but they are even crowded."
Holden's prior school experience at The College of Richard Collyer consisted of three weekly practices and midweek games in the Collegiate Basketball League, where CRC was a part of Tier 3 South East.
"It was a great opportunity to get fundamental instruction on top of what I had from primary school," Holden said. "My career has taken whatever I can get at each stage."
Once his time was concluded at CRC, he had no doubt he wanted to come to America and get even more knowledge of his favorite sport.
"After prep school, there aren't many options in England unless it's club or guys just playing together on a team in a local league," he admitted. "I got into a recruiting service and shared some playing videos with several colleges.
(Head) Coach (Zach) Pickelman contacted me during the process with a few other schools," he added. "I looked at everything and thought McMurry was my best fit. I haven't regretted it at all."
Even though his mom and dad don't have many chances to come over and see him play in person, the increased opportunities on the Internet have allowed them to watch live streams.
"They knew the best way for me to be the best player I could be was to come over here," Holden said. "There are many more opportunities to work on my game with much more court space and so on. I want to make sure I get the most out of this."
A chance like former War Hawks player Jordan Jackson, who is part of the English professional league, has – to continue to advance the quality of the King's footprint on the hardwood.