First type laced leather basketballs used between 1890s and 1920s 30s era. These are great replica balls as old balls that bounce are extinct. Hand made, hand stitched and hand sewn of specially aged and tanned fine leather. Bounce it, dribble it, shoot it !! Just like the early players did. Great for special gifts, awards, commemoratives, or decor, for your game room, den or office. HISTORY HISTORY In 1891 Dr. Naismith invented the game of basketball. It was to bring team sport indoors. The first ball was crude and handmade and hand stitched leather with an irregular shape and bladder. It was made to be passed. It was soft and oversize up to 33 inches in circumference. Its laces and handmade irregular seams made the ball much trickier to dribble and shoot. Full size, vintage balls like these are practically extinct. Rare examples command museum prices. After each quarter, if there was not a second ball to be used, balls had to be de laced and re pumped up. Access to the bladder