Ned Irish was a pioneering figure in the world of basketball. He was a major force in the development of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the sport of basketball as a whole.

Irish was born in New York City in 1902 and attended Columbia University. He was a member of the basketball team and was a standout player. After graduating, he became a sports writer for the New York Evening Post.

In 1942, Irish founded the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which was the predecessor to the NBA. He was the first president of the BAA and was instrumental in the league's growth. He was also responsible for the introduction of the 24-second shot clock, which revolutionized the game.

Irish was also a major promoter of the game. He was the first to organize doubleheaders and the first to televise games. He was also responsible for the introduction of the All-Star Game and the NBA Draft.

Irish was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1959. He was also inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 1998.

Irish was a major figure in the development of the NBA and the sport of basketball. He was a pioneer in the promotion of the game and was responsible for many of the innovations that have become staples of the sport. His legacy will live on for generations to come.

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