NBA
The NBA, or National Basketball Association, is a professional basketball league in North America, composed of 30 teams. It is widely regarded as the premier men's professional basketball league in the world. Founded in New York City on June 6, 1946, as the Basketball Association of America (BAA), it merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1949 to become the NBA. The league's regular season runs from October to April, followed by playoffs that culminate in the NBA Finals in June. The NBA is known for its high level of athleticism and skill, and it features some of the most prominent basketball players in history. The league operates under a collective bargaining agreement and is governed by a commissioner. It has a significant cultural and economic impact, with a large global following and various media rights deals. The NBA also engages in community initiatives and promotes the growth of basketball worldwide.