Watch CBS News

Naismith's Basketball Rules Up For Auction In NYC

NEW YORK (AP) — The original rules of basketball are being sold at a New York City auction.

Sotheby's is offering the Naismith Rules on Friday afternoon as part of a sale of historic documents. The presale estimate is $2 million.

James Naismith wrote the 13 rules nearly 119 years ago. The physical education instructor invented basketball as a winter activity for a YMCA in Springfield, Mass.

The basketball document is typed, but also contains handwritten notes.

It's being sold to raise money for the Naismith International Basketball Foundation. The organization promotes sportsmanship and provides services to underprivileged children around the world.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.