"Basketball" is the fifth and penultimate episode of the first season of the American comedy television series The Office. The episode aired on NBC in the United States on April 19, 2005. The episode was written and directed by producer Greg Daniels, marking both his first solo writing credit and first directing credit for the series. This episode also marks the first appearance of comedian Patrice O'Neal.
Michael Scott in the warehouse, wearing his special basketball uniform holding a ball.
John Krasinski, a former high school basketball star, performed all his own stunts in the episode.
The Office (American TV series) season 1
The first season of the American television comedy The Office premiered in the United States on NBC on March 24, 2005, concluded on April 26, 2005, and consists of six episodes. The Office is an American adaptation of the British TV series, and is presented in a mockumentary format, portraying the daily lives of office employees in the Scranton, Pennsylvania branch of the fictitious Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. The season stars Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, and B. J. Novak.
DVD cover
Ratings for the first season of The Office
Steve Carell was initially criticized for his portrayal of Michael Scott, although his character soon garnered critical favor.