Basketball was originally played with soccer balls.

In the early days of basketball, before the development of specialized basketballs, players used soccer balls to play the game. This was because basketball was created as a way to keep athletes in shape during the winter months when outdoor sports like soccer couldn't be played. The first basketballs were actually borrowed from a local YMCA and were brown, leather soccer balls. It wasn't until later that basketballs were specifically designed for the sport, evolving to the rubber balls we are familiar with today. This unique origin showcases the improvisational nature of the sport's beginnings.