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{{Short description|Inflated ball used for basketball games}}
{{Short description|Inflated ball used for basketball games}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2024}}
[[Image:basketball.png|thumb|right|A typical basketball]]
[[File:basketball.png|thumb|right|A typical basketball]]
A '''basketball''' is a [[Sphere|spherical]] [[ball]] used in [[football]] games. Basketballs usually range in size from very small promotional items that are only a few inches (some centimeters) in diameter to extra large balls nearly {{convert|2|ft|cm|-1}} in diameter used in training exercises. For example, a youth basketball could be {{convert|27|in|cm}} in circumference, while a [[National Collegiate Athletic Association]] (NCAA) men's ball would be a maximum of {{convert|30|in|cm}} and an NCAA women's ball would be a maximum of {{convert|29|in|cm}}. The standard for a basketball in the [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA) is {{convert|29.5|in|cm}} in [[circumference]] and for the [[Women's National Basketball Association]] (WNBA), a maximum circumference of {{convert|29|in|cm}}. High school and junior leagues normally use NCAA, NBA or WNBA sized balls.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.stack.com/a/basketball-sizes |title=Basketball Sizes: A Quick Guide for All Levels of Play|last=Zirm|first=Jordan|website=STACK|language=en|access-date=2017-05-05}}</ref><ref name=BOSW>{{cite web|url=https://www.livestrong.com/article/84284-basketball-official-size-weight/|title=Basketball Official Size & Weight|first=Carl|last=Putman|date=September 11, 2017|website=LiveStrong.com|access-date=2018-02-02}}</ref>
A '''basketball''' is a [[Sphere|spherical]] [[ball]] used in [[basketball]] games. Basketballs usually range in size from very small promotional items that are only a few inches (some centimeters) in diameter to extra large balls nearly {{convert|2|ft|cm|-1}} in diameter used in training exercises. For example, a youth basketball could be {{convert|27|in|cm}} in circumference, while a [[National Collegiate Athletic Association]] (NCAA) men's ball would be a maximum of {{convert|30|in|cm}} and an NCAA women's ball would be a maximum of {{convert|29|in|cm}}. The standard for a basketball in the [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA) is {{convert|29.5|in|cm}} in [[circumference]] and for the [[Women's National Basketball Association]] (WNBA), a maximum circumference of {{convert|28.5|in|cm}}. High school and junior leagues normally use NCAA, NBA or WNBA sized balls.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.stack.com/a/basketball-sizes |title=Basketball Sizes: A Quick Guide for All Levels of Play|last=Zirm|first=Jordan|website=STACK|date=8 September 2016 |language=en|access-date=2017-05-05}}</ref><ref name=BOSW>{{cite web|url=https://www.livestrong.com/article/84284-basketball-official-size-weight/|title=Basketball Official Size & Weight|first=Carl|last=Putman|date=September 11, 2017|website=LiveStrong.com|access-date=2018-02-02}}</ref>


Aside from the court and the baskets, the basketball is the only piece of equipment necessary to play the game of basketball. During the game, the ball must be bounced continuously ([[Basketball#Dribbling|dribbling]]), thrown through the air to other players ([[Basketball#Passing|passing]]) or thrown towards the basket ([[Basketball#Shooting|shooting]]). Therefore, the ball must be very durable and easy to hold on to. The ball is also used to perform tricks (sometimes called freestyling), the most common of which are spinning the ball on the tip of one's index finger, dribbling in complex patterns, rolling the ball over one's shoulder, or performing aerobatic maneuvers with the ball while executing a [[slam dunk]], most notably in the context of a [[Slam Dunk Contest|slam dunk contest]].
Aside from the court and the baskets, the basketball is the only piece of equipment necessary to play the game of basketball. During the game, the ball must be bounced continuously ([[Basketball#Dribbling|dribbling]]), thrown through the air to other players ([[Basketball#Passing|passing]]) or thrown towards the basket ([[Basketball#Shooting|shooting]]). Therefore, the ball must be very durable and easy to hold on to. The ball is also used to perform tricks (sometimes called freestyling), the most common of which are spinning the ball on the tip of one's index finger, dribbling in complex patterns, rolling the ball over one's shoulder, or performing aerobatic maneuvers with the ball while executing a [[slam dunk]], most notably in the context of a [[Slam Dunk Contest|slam dunk contest]].
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The surface of the ball is nearly always divided by "ribs" that are recessed below the surface of the ball in a variety of configurations and are generally a contrasting [[color]]. An orangish surface with [[black]] ribs and a possible logo is the traditional color scheme of basketballs but they are sold in various colors. Most famous of these variations, a red/white/blue basketball, was used for the [[American Basketball Association]], the [[Harlem Globetrotters]], and as the "money ball" in the NBA [[NBA All-Star Weekend|All-Star Weekend]]'s [[Three Point Contest]].
The surface of the ball is nearly always divided by "ribs" that are recessed below the surface of the ball in a variety of configurations and are generally a contrasting [[color]]. An orangish surface with [[black]] ribs and a possible logo is the traditional color scheme of basketballs but they are sold in various colors. Most famous of these variations, a red/white/blue basketball, was used for the [[American Basketball Association]], the [[Harlem Globetrotters]], and as the "money ball" in the NBA [[NBA All-Star Weekend|All-Star Weekend]]'s [[Three Point Contest]].


Balls are generally designated for indoor (generally made of leather or absorbent composites), or all-surface use (generally made of rubber or durable composites, also known as indoor/outdoor balls). Indoor balls tend to be more expensive than all-surface balls due to the cost of materials. In addition,
Balls are generally designated for indoor (generally made of leather or absorbent composites), or all-surface use (generally made of rubber or durable composites, also known as indoor/outdoor balls). Indoor balls tend to be more expensive than all-surface balls due to the cost of materials. In addition, brand new all-leather indoor balls must be "broken in" first to achieve optimal grip before use in competition. The abrasiveness of asphalt and the dirt and moisture present in an outdoor setting will usually ruin an indoor ball within a very short period of time, which is why an indoor/outdoor ball is recommended for recreational players. Outdoor balls are commonly made from rubber to cope with rougher conditions, and they need to be filled with more air to retain a suitable level of air pressure in colder weather.
brand new all-leather indoor balls must be "broken in" first to achieve optimal grip before use in competition. The abrasiveness of asphalt and the dirt and moisture present in an outdoor setting will usually ruin an indoor ball within a very short period of time, which is why an indoor/outdoor ball is recommended for recreational players. Outdoor balls are usually called [https://www.bestbasketballs.net/best-outdoor-rubber-basketball/ outdoor rubber basketballs] & they are commonly made from rubber to cope with rougher conditions, and they need to be filled with more air to retain a suitable level of air pressure in colder weather.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sportsgearlab.com/best-outdoor-basketball/ |title=Sports Gear Lab |publisher=Sportsgearlab.com |access-date=31 May 2016}}</ref>


==Sizes==
==Sizes==
Different sizes are used for different age groups.<ref name=BKT>{{Cite web|url=https://www.breakthroughbasketball.com/basketballs/size-chart.html|title=Basketball Size Chart - Recommended Sizes for Mom & Me |website=www.breakthroughbasketball.com|access-date=2017-05-05}}</ref><ref name=fiba>{{cite web|url=http://www.fiba.basketball/OBR-2018-Basketball-Equipment-Yellow-Version-2.pdf |title=Official Basketball Rules 2018 - Basketball Equipment - Valid as of 1st October 2018 (working document)|pages=11–12 |publisher=FIBA |date=1 October 2017 |access-date=31 March 2019}}</ref> The common standards are:
Different sizes are used for different age groups.<ref name=BKT>{{Cite web|url=https://www.breakthroughbasketball.com/basketballs/size-chart.html|title=Basketball Size Chart - Recommended Sizes for Mom & Me |website=www.breakthroughbasketball.com|access-date=2017-05-05}}</ref><ref name=fiba>{{cite web|url=http://www.fiba.basketball/documents/BasketballEquipment.pdf |title=Official Basketball Rules 2020 - Basketball Equipment - Valid as of 1st October 2020 (working document)|pages=12 |publisher=FIBA |date=1 October 2020 |access-date=22 April 2021}}</ref> The common standards are:


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
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!Size || Type || Circumference || Weight || Notes on basketball
!Size || Type || Circumference || Weight || Notes on basketball
|-
|-
| 7 || Men || {{cvt|29.5|in|cm}}<br />[{{cvt|749|–|780|mm|in|1|disp=br}}]<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|22|oz|g}}<br />[{{cvt|567|–|650|g|oz|0|disp=br}}]<ref name=fiba/> || style="text-align:left;" | Men and boys ages 15 and up. This is the official size for men's high school, college, and professional.
| 7 || Men || {{cvt|750|–|770|mm|in|1|disp=br}}<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|580|–|620|g|oz|0|disp=br}}<ref name=fiba/> || style="text-align:left;" | Men and boys ages 15 and up. This is the official size for men's high school, college, and professional.
|-
|-
| 6 || Women || {{cvt|28.5|in|cm}}<br />[{{cvt|724|–|737|mm|in|1|disp=br}}]<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|20|oz|g}}<br />[{{cvt|510|–|567|g|oz|0|disp=br}}]<ref name=fiba/> || style="text-align:left;" | Boys ages 12–14. Women and girls ages 12 and up. This is the official size for women’s high school, college, and professional.
| 6 || Women || {{cvt|715|–|730|mm|in|1|disp=br}}<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|510|–|550|g|oz|0|disp=br}}<ref name=fiba/> || style="text-align:left;" | Boys ages 12–14. Women and girls ages 12 and up. This is the official size for women's high school, college, and professional.
|-
|-
| 5 || Youth (North America)<ref name=BKT/><br />Mini (FIBA)<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|27.5|in|cm}}<br />[{{cvt|690|–|710|mm|in|1|disp=br}}]<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|17|oz|g}}<br />[{{cvt|470|–|500|g|oz|0|disp=br}}]<ref name=fiba/> || style="text-align:left;" | Boys and girls ages 9–11 years old. This is the standard youth basketball.
| 5 || Youth (North America)<ref name=BKT/><br />Mini (FIBA)<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|685|–|700|mm|in|1|disp=br}}<ref name=fiba/> || {{cvt|465|–|495|g|oz|0|disp=br}}<ref name=fiba/> || style="text-align:left;" | Children ages 9–11 years old. This is the standard youth basketball.
|-
|-
| 4 || Youth (North America)<ref name=BKT/> || {{cvt|25.5|in|cm}} || {{cvt|14|oz|g}} || style="text-align:left;" | Boys and girls ages 5–8 years old.
| 4 || Youth (North America)<ref name=BKT/> || {{cvt|25.5|in|cm}} || {{cvt|14|oz|g}} || style="text-align:left;" | Children ages 5–8 years old.
|-
|-
| 3 || Mini (North America)<ref name=BKT/> || {{cvt|22.0|in|cm}} || {{cvt|10|oz|g}} || style="text-align:left;" | Boys and girls ages 4–8 years old. Also known as “mini” basketball.
| 3 || Mini (North America)<ref name=BKT/> || {{cvt|22.0|in|cm}} || {{cvt|10|oz|g}} || style="text-align:left;" | Children ages 4–8 years old. Also known as "mini" basketball.
|}
|}


Note that the ball used for all competitions (men's, women's, and mixed) in the formalized halfcourt game of [[3x3 (basketball)|3x3]] combines characteristics of the size 6 and size 7 balls. Its circumference is that of a size 6 ball, but its weight is that of a size 7.<ref name="Wilson 3x3">{{cite press release|url=http://www.amersports.com/newsroom/archive/news-article/2015/06/09/wilson-to-provide-the-official-game-ball-for-fiba |title=Wilson to provide the Official Game Ball for FIBA |publisher=[[Amer Sports]] |date=9 June 2015 |access-date=17 August 2015}}</ref>
The ball used for all competitions (men's, women's, and mixed) in the formal halfcourt game of [[3x3 basketball|3x3]] combines characteristics of the size 6 and size 7 balls. Its circumference is that of a size 6 ball, but its weight is that of a size 7.<ref name="Wilson 3x3">{{cite press release|url=http://www.amersports.com/newsroom/archive/news-article/2015/06/09/wilson-to-provide-the-official-game-ball-for-fiba |title=Wilson to provide the Official Game Ball for FIBA |publisher=[[Amer Sports]] |date=9 June 2015 |access-date=17 August 2015}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
[[Image:Basketball historic.tif|thumb|right|A historic basketball.]]
[[File:Basketball historic.tif|thumb|right|A historic basketball.]]
In early December 1891, the chairman of the physical education department at the School for Christian Workers (now [[Springfield College]]) in [[Springfield, Massachusetts]], instructed physical education teacher [[James Naismith]], to invent a new game to entertain the school's athletes in the winter season. Naismith assembled his class of 18 young men, appointed captains of two nine-player teams, and set in motion the first ever basketball game, played with a soccer ball and two peach baskets tacked to either end of the gymnasium.
In early December 1891, the chairman of the physical education department at the School for Christian Workers ([[Springfield College]]) in [[Springfield, Massachusetts]], instructed physical education teacher [[James Naismith]] to invent a new game to entertain the school's athletes in the winter season. Naismith assembled his class of 18 young men, appointed captains of two nine-player teams, and set in motion the first-ever basketball game, played with a soccer ball and two peach baskets tacked to either end of the gymnasium.


The first purpose-built basketballs were made from panels of leather stitched together with a rubber bladder inside. A cloth lining was added to the leather for support and uniformity. A molded version of the early basketball was invented in 1942. For many years, leather was the material of choice for basketball coverings, however in the late 1990s, synthetic composite materials were put forth and have rapidly gained acceptance in most leagues, although the NBA's game balls still use real leather (outside of a brief experiment with a microfiber ball in 2006 that was not well received).
The first purpose-built basketballs were made from panels of leather stitched together with a rubber bladder inside. A cloth lining was added to the leather for support and uniformity. A molded version of the early basketball was invented in 1942. For many years, leather was the material of choice for basketball coverings, however, in the late 1990s, synthetic composite materials were put forth and rapidly gained acceptance in most leagues, although the NBA's game balls still use real leather (apart from a brief experiment with a microfiber composite ball in 2006 that was not well received by the players).<ref name="BBC">{{cite web |url=http://www.bballcentral.com/articles/contest1/new-nba-microfiber-composite-ball.htm |last=Vujcic |first=Djuka |website=bballcentral.com |title=The New NBA Microfiber Composite Basketball: To Be or Not to Be |access-date=2024-02-15 |date=2006-12-14 |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121015043408/http://www.bballcentral.com/articles/contest1/new-nba-microfiber-composite-ball.htm |archive-date=15 October 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref>


From 1967 through 1976, the [[American Basketball Association (1967-1976)|American Basketball Association]] (ABA) used a distinctive red, white and blue basketball that is still seen from time to time.
From 1967 through 1976, the [[American Basketball Association (1967-1976)|American Basketball Association]] (ABA) used a distinctive red, white and blue basketball. It is used in the NBA's [[Three-Point Contest|three point contest]].


==Notable basketball manufacturers==
==Notable basketball manufacturers==
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|'''Spalding'''
|'''Spalding'''
|-
|-
|[[Image:Spalding-Platinum-ZKPro.jpg|150px]]
|[[File:Spalding-Platinum-ZKPro.jpg|150px]]
|[[Spalding (sports equipment)|Spalding]] was the first company to produce a basketball for official use. Company founder [[Albert Spalding|A. G. Spalding]] made the first dedicated basketball in the last years of the 19th century at the behest of James Naismith. It has produced basketballs since that time and has produced the NBA’s official game ball since 1983. They also produce the basketballs for the WNBA and [[NBA Development League]]. The company also produces a wide variety of balls for the consumer market.
|[[Spalding (sports equipment)|Spalding]] was the first company to produce a basketball for official use. Company founder [[Albert Spalding|A. G. Spalding]] made the first dedicated basketball in the last years of the 19th century at the behest of James Naismith. It has produced basketballs since that time and was the NBA's official game ball supplier from 1983 to 2021. They also produced the basketballs for the WNBA and [[NBA G League]]. The company produces a wide variety of balls for the consumer market.


In 2012, it also became official provider for both the [[Euroleague]] and [[Eurocup Basketball|Eurocup]] competitions.<ref>[http://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague-basketball/news/i/100466/spalding-becomes-global-provider-for-euroleague-basketball Spalding becomes global provider for Euroleague Basketball]</ref> It also serves as provider for [[Liga ACB]].
In 2012, it became official provider for both the [[EuroLeague]] and [[EuroCup Basketball|EuroCup]] competitions.<ref>[http://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague-basketball/news/i/100466/spalding-becomes-global-provider-for-euroleague-basketball Spalding becomes global provider for Euroleague Basketball]</ref> It also serves as provider for [[Liga ACB]].


Spalding became the new supplier for [[National Basketball League (Australia)|NBL Australia]] in 2010.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://basketball.net.au/basketball-australia-to-play-ball-with-spalding-through-to-2019/ |title=Basketball Australia to Play Ball with Spalding Through to 2019 |date=August 10, 2016 |website=Basketball Australia |access-date=2018-02-02}}</ref>
Spalding became the supplier for [[National Basketball League (Australia)|NBL Australia]] in 2010.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://basketball.net.au/basketball-australia-to-play-ball-with-spalding-through-to-2019/ |title=Basketball Australia to Play Ball with Spalding Through to 2019 |date=August 10, 2016 |website=Basketball Australia |access-date=2018-02-02}}</ref>
|-
|-
|'''Molten'''
|'''Molten'''
|-
|-
|[[Image:Molten GL7.jpg|150px]]
|[[File:Molten GL7.jpg|150px]]
|[[Molten Corporation|Molten]], a Japanese sporting goods manufacturer, has the current contract to provide game balls for:{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
|[[Molten Corporation|Molten]], a Japanese sporting goods manufacturer, has the contract to provide game balls for:{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
*All [[International Basketball Federation]] (FIBA) world championships and continental qualifying events.
*All [[International Basketball Federation]] (FIBA) world championships and continental qualifying events.
*All [[FIBA Asia]] events.
*All [[FIBA Asia]] events.
*The [[VTB United League]].
*The [[VTB United League]].
*Many domestic leagues, including NBL Australia, [[Liga Nacional de Básquetbol|Argentina]], [[Liga Uruguaya de Basketball|Uruguay]], [[British Basketball League]], [[Ligue féminine de basket|France]] (women), [[Greek Basket League|Greece]], [[National Basketball League (Indonesia)|Indonesia]], [[Lega Basket Serie A|Italy]], [[Lietuvos Krepšinio Lyga|Lithuania]], [[Philippine Basketball Association|the Philippines]], [[Polish Basketball Association|Poland]], and [[Portuguese Basketball League (LCB)|Portugal]].{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
*Many domestic leagues, including [[National Basketball League (Australia)|Australia]], [[Liga Nacional de Básquetbol|Argentina]], [[Liga Uruguaya de Basketball|Uruguay]], [[Ligue féminine de basket|France]] (women), [[British Basketball League|Great Britain]], [[Greek Basket League|Greece]], [[National Basketball League (Indonesia)|Indonesia]], [[Lega Basket Serie A|Italy]], [[Lietuvos Krepšinio Lyga|Lithuania]], [[Philippine Basketball Association|the Philippines]], [[Polish Basketball Association|Poland]], and [[Portuguese Basketball League (LCB)|Portugal]].{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
Until the 2006–07 season, it had provided balls for both Europe-wide competitions organized by [[Euroleague Basketball]], the [[Euroleague]] and [[ULEB Eurocup|ULEB Cup]] (now the Eurocup).{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
Until the 2006–07 season, it provided balls for both [[European professional club basketball system#Continental competitions|Europe-wide competitions]] organized by [[Euroleague Basketball]], the [[EuroLeague]] and [[ULEB Eurocup|ULEB Cup]] (the EuroCup).{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
Molten's top-of-the line product is the GL7, a leather ball with a distinctive 12-panel design.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.molten-gl7.com/english/index.html |title=GL7 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070419133610/http://www.molten-gl7.com/english/index.html |archive-date=April 19, 2007 }}</ref>
Molten's top-of-the line product is the GL7, a leather ball with a distinctive 12-panel design.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.molten-gl7.com/english/index.html |title=GL7 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070419133610/http://www.molten-gl7.com/english/index.html |archive-date=April 19, 2007 }}</ref>
|-
|-
|'''Wilson'''
|'''Wilson'''
|-
|-
|[[Image:Wilson Solution.jpg|150px]]
|[[File:Wilson Solution.jpg|150px]]
|[[Wilson Sporting Goods]] is the official ball supplier of all NCAA postseason tournaments, most notably the [[NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship|men's]] and [[NCAA Women's Division I Basketball Championship|women's]] Division I tournaments, and is used by many NCAA teams during the season as well by many high school leagues. As of 2015, Wilson also supplies balls for all FIBA-operated 3x3 competitions.<ref name="Wilson 3x3"/> Like Spalding, Wilson produces a variety of balls for the consumer market as well. It also formerly was the supplier to the NBA's game ball from 1946 to 1983.
|[[Wilson Sporting Goods]] is the official ball supplier of all NCAA postseason tournaments, most notably the [[NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship|men's]] and [[NCAA Women's Division I Basketball Championship|women's]] Division I tournaments, and is used by many NCAA teams during the season as well by many high school leagues. As of 2015, Wilson supplies balls for all FIBA-operated 3x3 competitions.<ref name="Wilson 3x3"/> Like Spalding, Wilson produces a variety of balls for the consumer market. It served as the supplier of the NBA's game ball from 1946 to 1983, and again since [[2021–22 NBA season#Notable occurrences|2021]].
|-
|-
|'''Rawlings'''
|'''Rawlings'''
|-
|-
|[[Image:Rawlings TEN.jpg|150px]]
|[[File:Rawlings TEN.jpg|150px]]
|[[Rawlings (company)|Rawlings]] has manufactured basketballs since 1902. The company is known for producing a 10-panel ball (known as the TEN), along with traditional 8-panel balls. The TEN basketball is the official ball of the [[Amateur Athletic Union]] and the "[[Gus Macker]]", the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the United States.{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
|[[Rawlings (company)|Rawlings]] has manufactured basketballs since 1902. The company is known for producing a 10-panel ball (the TEN), along with traditional 8-panel balls. The TEN basketball is the official ball of the [[Amateur Athletic Union]] and the "[[Gus Macker]]", the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the United States.{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}
|-
|-
|'''Nike'''
|'''Nike'''
|-
|-
|[[Image:BB9 4005.jpg|150px]]
|[[File:BB9 4005.jpg|150px]]
|[[Nike, Inc.|Nike]] had the contract to produce balls for the [[Euroleague Basketball Company]] (including the Euroleague and the [[Eurocup Basketball|Eurocup]]) from 2007<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.euroleague.net/news/i/13989/180/item |title=Euroleague Basketball Announces Partnership with Nike |publisher=Euroleague Basketball |date=2007-06-28 |access-date=2007-07-02| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070701155226/http://www.euroleague.net/news/i/13989/180/item| archive-date= 1 July 2007 | url-status= live}}</ref> until 2012, when it turned to Spalding. In the Philippines the [[National Collegiate Athletic Association (Philippines)|NCAA]] and [[University Athletic Association of the Philippines|UAAP]] use the Nike 4005 Official Tournament Balls.
|[[Nike, Inc.|Nike]] had the contract to produce balls for the [[Euroleague Basketball]] (operators of the [[EuroLeague]] and the [[EuroCup Basketball|EuroCup]]) from 2007<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.euroleague.net/news/i/13989/180/item |title=Euroleague Basketball Announces Partnership with Nike |publisher=Euroleague Basketball |date=2007-06-28 |access-date=2007-07-02| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070701155226/http://www.euroleague.net/news/i/13989/180/item| archive-date= 1 July 2007 | url-status= live}}</ref> until 2012, when it turned to Spalding. In the Philippines the [[National Collegiate Athletic Association (Philippines)|NCAA]] (unrelated to the American NCAA) and [[University Athletic Association of the Philippines|UAAP]] use the Nike 4005 Official Tournament Balls.
|-
|-
|'''Nivia'''
|'''Nivia'''
|-
|-
|[[Image:Nivia_Basketball,_Top_Grip,_BB-195,_Jan2017.jpg|150px]]
|[[File:Nivia_Basketball,_Top_Grip,_BB-195,_Jan2017.jpg|150px]]
|[[Nivia Sports|Nivia]] is based in Jalandhar (Punjab), India and it has been manufacturing basketballs since 1934. It makes hand stitched balls which have been the official balls for many national, international leagues, championship including the [[All India Football Federation]] (AIFF).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.freewill.in/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=22&Itemid=27#h1960|title=Nivia Production History}}</ref>
|[[Nivia Sports|Nivia]] is based in [[Jalandhar|Jalandhar, India]] and it has been manufacturing basketballs since 1934. It makes hand stitched balls which have been the official balls for many national, international leagues, championship including the [[All India Football Federation]] (AIFF).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.freewill.in/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=22&Itemid=27#h1960|title=Nivia Production History|access-date=2020-06-26|archive-date=2017-10-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023230602/http://www.freewill.in/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=22&Itemid=27#h1960|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|-


|'''Others'''
|'''Others'''
|-
|-
| colspan=2 |Other companies that make basketballs include [[Adidas]], [[Avaro]], [[Baden Sports]] (official supplier for the [[Harlem Globetrotters]]), [[Dunlop Sport|Dunlop]], [[Decathlon (retailer)|Kipsta]], [[Mikasa Sports|Mikasa]], [[Mitre Sports International|Mitre]] to name a few.
| colspan=2 |Other companies that make basketballs include [[Adidas]], [[Baden Sports]] (official supplier for the [[Harlem Globetrotters]]), [[Dunlop Sport|Dunlop]], [[Decathlon (retailer)|Tarmak]], [[Mikasa Sports|Mikasa]], [[Mitre Sports International|Mitre]], [[Puma (brand)|Puma]], [[And1]] to name a few.
|}
|}


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== References ==
== References ==
{{Commons category|Basketball balls}}
{{Commons category|Basketballs}}
{{Wiktionary|basketball}}
{{Wiktionary|basketball}}
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


{{basketball}}
{{basketball}}
{{Sports equipment}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


Latest revision as of 10:56, 22 December 2024

A typical basketball

A basketball is a spherical ball used in basketball games. Basketballs usually range in size from very small promotional items that are only a few inches (some centimeters) in diameter to extra large balls nearly 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter used in training exercises. For example, a youth basketball could be 27 inches (69 cm) in circumference, while a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men's ball would be a maximum of 30 inches (76 cm) and an NCAA women's ball would be a maximum of 29 inches (74 cm). The standard for a basketball in the National Basketball Association (NBA) is 29.5 inches (75 cm) in circumference and for the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), a maximum circumference of 28.5 inches (72 cm). High school and junior leagues normally use NCAA, NBA or WNBA sized balls.[1][2]

Aside from the court and the baskets, the basketball is the only piece of equipment necessary to play the game of basketball. During the game, the ball must be bounced continuously (dribbling), thrown through the air to other players (passing) or thrown towards the basket (shooting). Therefore, the ball must be very durable and easy to hold on to. The ball is also used to perform tricks (sometimes called freestyling), the most common of which are spinning the ball on the tip of one's index finger, dribbling in complex patterns, rolling the ball over one's shoulder, or performing aerobatic maneuvers with the ball while executing a slam dunk, most notably in the context of a slam dunk contest.

Characteristics

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Nearly all basketballs have an inflatable inner rubber bladder, generally wrapped in layers of fiber and then covered with a surface made either from leather (traditional), rubber, or a synthetic composite. As in most inflatable balls, there is a small opening that allows the pressure to be increased or decreased.

The surface of the ball is nearly always divided by "ribs" that are recessed below the surface of the ball in a variety of configurations and are generally a contrasting color. An orangish surface with black ribs and a possible logo is the traditional color scheme of basketballs but they are sold in various colors. Most famous of these variations, a red/white/blue basketball, was used for the American Basketball Association, the Harlem Globetrotters, and as the "money ball" in the NBA All-Star Weekend's Three Point Contest.

Balls are generally designated for indoor (generally made of leather or absorbent composites), or all-surface use (generally made of rubber or durable composites, also known as indoor/outdoor balls). Indoor balls tend to be more expensive than all-surface balls due to the cost of materials. In addition, brand new all-leather indoor balls must be "broken in" first to achieve optimal grip before use in competition. The abrasiveness of asphalt and the dirt and moisture present in an outdoor setting will usually ruin an indoor ball within a very short period of time, which is why an indoor/outdoor ball is recommended for recreational players. Outdoor balls are commonly made from rubber to cope with rougher conditions, and they need to be filled with more air to retain a suitable level of air pressure in colder weather.

Sizes

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Different sizes are used for different age groups.[3][4] The common standards are:

Size Type Circumference Weight Notes on basketball
7 Men 750–770 mm
29.5–30.3 in[4]		 580–620 g
20–22 oz[4]		 Men and boys ages 15 and up. This is the official size for men's high school, college, and professional.
6 Women 715–730 mm
28.1–28.7 in[4]		 510–550 g
18–19 oz[4]		 Boys ages 12–14. Women and girls ages 12 and up. This is the official size for women's high school, college, and professional.
5 Youth (North America)[3]
Mini (FIBA)[4]		 685–700 mm
27.0–27.6 in[4]		 465–495 g
16–17 oz[4]		 Children ages 9–11 years old. This is the standard youth basketball.
4 Youth (North America)[3] 25.5 in (65 cm) 14 oz (400 g) Children ages 5–8 years old.
3 Mini (North America)[3] 22.0 in (56 cm) 10 oz (280 g) Children ages 4–8 years old. Also known as "mini" basketball.

The ball used for all competitions (men's, women's, and mixed) in the formal halfcourt game of 3x3 combines characteristics of the size 6 and size 7 balls. Its circumference is that of a size 6 ball, but its weight is that of a size 7.[5]

History

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A historic basketball.

In early December 1891, the chairman of the physical education department at the School for Christian Workers (Springfield College) in Springfield, Massachusetts, instructed physical education teacher James Naismith to invent a new game to entertain the school's athletes in the winter season. Naismith assembled his class of 18 young men, appointed captains of two nine-player teams, and set in motion the first-ever basketball game, played with a soccer ball and two peach baskets tacked to either end of the gymnasium.

The first purpose-built basketballs were made from panels of leather stitched together with a rubber bladder inside. A cloth lining was added to the leather for support and uniformity. A molded version of the early basketball was invented in 1942. For many years, leather was the material of choice for basketball coverings, however, in the late 1990s, synthetic composite materials were put forth and rapidly gained acceptance in most leagues, although the NBA's game balls still use real leather (apart from a brief experiment with a microfiber composite ball in 2006 that was not well received by the players).[6]

From 1967 through 1976, the American Basketball Association (ABA) used a distinctive red, white and blue basketball. It is used in the NBA's three point contest.

Notable basketball manufacturers

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Spalding
Spalding was the first company to produce a basketball for official use. Company founder A. G. Spalding made the first dedicated basketball in the last years of the 19th century at the behest of James Naismith. It has produced basketballs since that time and was the NBA's official game ball supplier from 1983 to 2021. They also produced the basketballs for the WNBA and NBA G League. The company produces a wide variety of balls for the consumer market.

In 2012, it became official provider for both the EuroLeague and EuroCup competitions.[7] It also serves as provider for Liga ACB.

Spalding became the supplier for NBL Australia in 2010.[8]

Molten
Molten, a Japanese sporting goods manufacturer, has the contract to provide game balls for:[citation needed]

Until the 2006–07 season, it provided balls for both Europe-wide competitions organized by Euroleague Basketball, the EuroLeague and ULEB Cup (the EuroCup).[citation needed] Molten's top-of-the line product is the GL7, a leather ball with a distinctive 12-panel design.[9]

Wilson
Wilson Sporting Goods is the official ball supplier of all NCAA postseason tournaments, most notably the men's and women's Division I tournaments, and is used by many NCAA teams during the season as well by many high school leagues. As of 2015, Wilson supplies balls for all FIBA-operated 3x3 competitions.[5] Like Spalding, Wilson produces a variety of balls for the consumer market. It served as the supplier of the NBA's game ball from 1946 to 1983, and again since 2021.
Rawlings
Rawlings has manufactured basketballs since 1902. The company is known for producing a 10-panel ball (the TEN), along with traditional 8-panel balls. The TEN basketball is the official ball of the Amateur Athletic Union and the "Gus Macker", the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the United States.[citation needed]
Nike
Nike had the contract to produce balls for the Euroleague Basketball (operators of the EuroLeague and the EuroCup) from 2007[10] until 2012, when it turned to Spalding. In the Philippines the NCAA (unrelated to the American NCAA) and UAAP use the Nike 4005 Official Tournament Balls.
Nivia
Nivia is based in Jalandhar, India and it has been manufacturing basketballs since 1934. It makes hand stitched balls which have been the official balls for many national, international leagues, championship including the All India Football Federation (AIFF).[11]
Others
Other companies that make basketballs include Adidas, Baden Sports (official supplier for the Harlem Globetrotters), Dunlop, Tarmak, Mikasa, Mitre, Puma, And1 to name a few.

See also

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References

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Basketballs.
Look up basketball in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.
  1. ^ Zirm, Jordan (8 September 2016). "Basketball Sizes: A Quick Guide for All Levels of Play". STACK. Retrieved 5 May 2017.
  2. ^ Putman, Carl (11 September 2017). "Basketball Official Size & Weight". LiveStrong.com. Retrieved 2 February 2018.
  3. ^ a b c d "Basketball Size Chart - Recommended Sizes for Mom & Me". www.breakthroughbasketball.com. Retrieved 5 May 2017.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h "Official Basketball Rules 2020 - Basketball Equipment - Valid as of 1st October 2020 (working document)" (PDF). FIBA. 1 October 2020. p. 12. Retrieved 22 April 2021.
  5. ^ a b "Wilson to provide the Official Game Ball for FIBA" (Press release). Amer Sports. 9 June 2015. Retrieved 17 August 2015.
  6. ^ Vujcic, Djuka (14 December 2006). "The New NBA Microfiber Composite Basketball: To Be or Not to Be". bballcentral.com. Archived from the original on 15 October 2012. Retrieved 15 February 2024.
  7. ^ Spalding becomes global provider for Euroleague Basketball
  8. ^ "Basketball Australia to Play Ball with Spalding Through to 2019". Basketball Australia. 10 August 2016. Retrieved 2 February 2018.
  9. ^ "GL7". Archived from the original on 19 April 2007.
  10. ^ "Euroleague Basketball Announces Partnership with Nike". Euroleague Basketball. 28 June 2007. Archived from the original on 1 July 2007. Retrieved 2 July 2007.
  11. ^ "Nivia Production History". Archived from the original on 23 October 2017. Retrieved 26 June 2020.
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