Although the original 13 rules have been expanded to over 100, the spirit and principles of the original rules are still in effect in today. Major rule changes over the years addressed the number of players, the court boundaries, dribbling, and the elimination of the center jump after made baskets.

How was basketball different in the past?

One of the biggest differences between Naismith's game 125 years ago and basketball today is that the original game had no dribbling. Players had to throw the ball from the spot on which they caught it, allowing the man in motion catching the ball just a few steps.

When did the NBA changed basketball?

Some things never need to change

According to the New York Times, the ball changed back in 2007, and the league has kept the general idea of a standard basketball since. The NBA learned a valuable lesson about change. While the change in the game is good, it's best to consult with those that the change affects.