How were NBA basketballs made in 1957?

In 1957, NBA basketballs were primarily made from leather, specifically cowhide, which was tanned and stitched together by hand. The construction involved a rubber bladder inside to provide shape and air retention. Each ball typically featured a classic, traditional design with a pebbled surface for better grip. The manufacturing process was labor-intensive, reflecting the craftsmanship of the time, before the advent of modern synthetic materials.