Figure, c. 600-750 CE, 11 x 5 3/4 x 2 3/8 in. ( x x cm), Clay, pigments, Mexico, 7th-8th century, Originating around 1500 among the Olmec, the Mesoamerican ballgame was the first team sport in human history. While there were localized variations in the game that was played from New Mexico to Honduras to the Caribbean, there were also many consistent features. Players' hands were only used to put the ball into play, after which it was deflected with the hips, knees, elbows, feet, and head.

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