The Evolution of Basketball in the Middle East

Missionaries, merchants and military brought the game of basketball starting in the early 20th century to the Middle East, making it the only American sport that successfully spread throughout the region. In this panel, we are going to discuss the history and today’s popularity of basketball across the Middle East, and American-Middle Eastern engagements in basketball such as NBA pre-season games in Abu Dhabi, Gulf sponsorships of American teams, and Middle Eastern players at U.S. college teams.

Speakers

Danyel Reiche, Visiting Research Fellow (GU-Q)

Nadim Nassif, Associate Professor in Physical Education and Sports (NDU)

Onur Yildirim, Professor of Economic History (METU)

Sebastian Sons, Senior Researcher (CARPO)

Misba Bhatti (Moedrater), Research Analyst (GU-Q)

This event is initiative of the Center for International and Regional Studies at Georgetown University in Qatar, as part of the research project America’s Game in the Middle East: the 2027 Qatar Basketball World Cup. It will be hosted in Georgetown University at The Robert and Bernice Wagner Alumni House, 3600 O St NW, Washington, DC 20007.

The event is open to the public. The panel will be followed by a reception.