Online Casino UK

When anyone thinks of basketball, the NBA doubtless springs to mind. For decades, the very best basketballers in the world have congregated in the top North American league. And while Europe and Asia can now boast skilful and popular basketball leagues of their own, it is the NBA that professionals still regard as the highest level of competition.

The National Basketball Association has been in existence since it was formed in 1946. Since that time, the league has continued to evolve into what is now a 30-club competition. The large majority of competing teams have played in the NBA for several decades, although new franchises have been added in recent years, such as the Charlotte Bobcats back in 2004.

Some of the most recognisable basketball teams in the world currently challenge for the NBA title each year; the Chicago Bulls rose to global prominence care of Michael Jordon, while the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic are likewise renowned franchises known in every continent. But while the teams may be well known, it is the players who draw the adoration of the worldwide basketball community.

Michael Jordon is undoubtedly the most identifiable basketball superstar, and arguably one of the most recognisable sportspersons to have ever lived. Other famous professionals that have competed in the NBA during their illustrious careers include Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, and Charles Barkley. International NBA stars have also risen to prominence in recent years, with Yao Ming (China), Andrew Bogut (Australia), and Dirk Nowitzki (Germany) just a few of many.

The Los Angeles Lakers took out the most recent NBA season, claiming their 16th overall championship title. However, the all-time leading championship-winning club is the Boston Celtics, with 17 NBA titles. Other famous clubs that have managed to win the competition in recent decades include the Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, and the Houston Rockets.

Most NBA stars originally came through the ranks of college basketball, so if you would like to learn more about that exciting competition see our NCAA college basketball article. The best of the best also take part in the Olympic games, where players from all over the world come together to fight for a gold medal; you can read more at our Olympic basketball page.