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Waterbury Basketball, In the Books[subscription required] 20211207
The History of Basketball in WaterburyBasketball has a rich history in the city of Waterbury, Connecticut, dating back to the early 1900s. Waterbury, known for its manufacturing industries and thriving immigrant communities, embraced basketball as a popular sport that brought people together from all walks of life. In the early 1900s, basketball was still a relatively new sport, having been invented just a few decades prior. However, it quickly gained popularity across the United States, and Waterbury was no exception. In 1908, the first basketball game was played in Waterbury, and by 1910, the city had its own basketball league, which included teams from local businesses and social clubs. One of the most significant developments in Waterbury basketball history came in the 1920s when a young man named Jerry Nason founded the Waterbury YMCA basketball team. Nason, who was just 20 years old at the time, would go on to lead the team to national prominence, winning multiple state championships and earning a reputation as one of the best coaches in the country. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, basketball continued to thrive in Waterbury, with local high schools and colleges fielding strong teams. Waterbury’s Sacred Heart High School, in particular, was a powerhouse, winning numerous state championships and producing several top-level players who went on to play college and professional basketball. In the 1950s and 1960s, Waterbury’s basketball scene continued to grow, with new leagues and teams forming regularly. In 1954, the Waterbury Municipal Basketball League was founded, providing a platform for local players to compete against each other and hone their skills. In the 1970s, Waterbury saw the emergence of a new generation of basketball players, many of whom were African American. These players brought a new style of play to the game, characterized by speed, athleticism, and creativity. They quickly became fan favorites and helped to cement basketball’s place as one of Waterbury’s most popular sports. Today, basketball remains a beloved sport in Waterbury, with numerous leagues and teams catering to players of all ages and skill levels. The city’s basketball history is celebrated by local museums and sports halls of fame, which honor the players, coaches, and teams that have made the sport such an integral part of Waterbury’s cultural fabric. 
Waterbury Basketball News ArchiveThanks to "Hoop History", written by Michael Griffin, Waterbury and her people now have 123 Books to their credit.
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