What Size Ball Does the WNBA Use?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

When it comes to professional basketball, every detail matters—from the players’ skills to the equipment they use. One key element that often sparks curiosity among fans and aspiring athletes alike is the size of the basketball itself. In the world of women’s professional basketball, the ball isn’t just a standard size; it’s carefully chosen to suit the style and pace of the game. Understanding the specific ball size used in the WNBA can offer fascinating insights into how the league tailors the game experience for its players and audience.

The size of the basketball plays a crucial role in gameplay, affecting everything from dribbling and shooting to passing and ball control. While many might assume the ball used in the WNBA is the same as in other leagues, there are subtle differences that reflect the unique demands of the women’s game. These distinctions help enhance performance and maintain the integrity of the sport at the highest level.

Exploring the size of the WNBA ball opens the door to a broader conversation about how equipment standards evolve to support athletes’ needs. It also highlights the thoughtful considerations behind what might seem like a simple choice. As we delve deeper, you’ll discover how the WNBA’s basketball size compares to other leagues and why it matters so much to players and fans alike.

Specifications of the WNBA Basketball

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) uses a basketball that is specifically designed to accommodate the unique demands of the women’s game. The size and weight of the ball are standardized to ensure consistency across all professional matches and to enhance player performance.

The official WNBA basketball has the following specifications:

  • Circumference: 28.5 inches (72.4 cm)
  • Weight: Approximately 20 ounces (567 grams)
  • Material: Typically high-quality leather or composite leather for optimal grip and durability
  • Color: Traditional orange with black channels for visibility

This size is slightly smaller than the men’s NBA basketball, which has a circumference of 29.5 inches. The reduced size helps improve handling and control, catering to the average hand size of female athletes.

Comparison Between WNBA and NBA Basketballs

To better understand the differences between the basketballs used in the WNBA and NBA, the following table outlines key specifications side by side:

Specification WNBA Basketball NBA Basketball
Circumference 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 29.5 inches (75 cm)
Weight 20 ounces (567 grams) 22 ounces (624 grams)
Material Leather or composite leather Leather or composite leather
Color Orange with black channels Orange with black channels

The one-inch difference in circumference may seem minor, but it significantly impacts grip, ball control, and shooting accuracy. Players in the WNBA benefit from a ball size that is more manageable and better suited to their hand dimensions.

Impact of Ball Size on Gameplay

The choice of a slightly smaller basketball in the WNBA affects multiple aspects of the game, including:

  • Ball Handling: A smaller circumference allows for easier dribbling and maneuvering, especially during fast breaks and tight defensive pressure.
  • Shooting Accuracy: Players tend to have better shooting form and control when the ball fits comfortably in their hands.
  • Passing: The reduced size facilitates quicker and more precise passes, improving overall team dynamics.
  • Player Comfort: Ergonomically, the ball size helps reduce fatigue and strain on players’ hands and wrists during extended play.

These factors collectively contribute to a faster-paced, skill-oriented style of play that characterizes the WNBA.

Manufacturers of the Official WNBA Basketball

The official basketball used in WNBA games is produced by Spalding, a trusted name in basketball equipment. Spalding has been supplying basketballs to professional leagues for decades, ensuring top-tier quality and consistency.

Key features of the Spalding WNBA basketball include:

  • Advanced composite leather technology for enhanced grip in both indoor and outdoor conditions.
  • Improved channel design to aid finger placement and ball control.
  • Consistent bounce and feel to meet professional standards.

The partnership between the WNBA and Spalding ensures that players have access to equipment that supports peak athletic performance while maintaining league integrity.

Maintenance and Care of the WNBA Basketball

Proper maintenance of the WNBA basketball is crucial to preserving its performance and longevity. Key recommendations include:

  • Regular Cleaning: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the ball after use to remove dirt and sweat.
  • Avoid Excess Moisture: Keep the ball dry and store it in a cool, dry place to prevent damage to the leather or composite material.
  • Proper Inflation: Maintain the recommended air pressure, typically between 7.5 to 8.5 psi, to ensure optimal bounce and handling.
  • Routine Inspection: Check for wear and tear, such as cracks or peeling, and replace the ball as necessary to maintain game quality.

By following these care guidelines, teams and players can ensure that the basketball remains in peak condition throughout the season.

Official Ball Size Used in the WNBA

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) uses a basketball that is slightly smaller than the standard men’s professional basketball. This adjustment caters to the average hand size and grip preferences of female athletes while maintaining high standards for game play quality and consistency.

The official WNBA game ball specifications are as follows:

Specification WNBA Ball NBA Ball (for comparison)
Circumference 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 29.5 inches (75 cm)
Weight 20 ounces (567 grams) 22 ounces (624 grams)
Material Full-grain leather or composite leather Full-grain leather or composite leather

This size aligns with what is commonly referred to as a “size 6” basketball, which is the standard size for women’s basketball globally, including FIBA competitions.

Rationale Behind the Smaller Ball Size

The decision to use a smaller basketball in the WNBA reflects considerations related to the physical characteristics of female athletes and the style of play emphasized in women’s basketball.

  • Grip and Control: The slightly smaller circumference allows for better ball handling and control, facilitating dribbling, passing, and shooting.
  • Player Comfort: A smaller and lighter ball reduces fatigue during extended play and enhances performance consistency.
  • Game Dynamics: The ball size supports a faster pace and higher skill execution, aligning with the WNBA’s emphasis on agility and precision.
  • Standardization: The WNBA ball size matches international women’s basketball standards, aiding players transitioning between leagues and international play.

Comparison with Other Basketball Leagues and Competitions

Understanding the WNBA ball size in the context of other leagues and levels helps clarify its unique specifications.

League / Competition Ball Size Circumference Weight
WNBA Size 6 (Women’s Standard) 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 20 ounces (567 grams)
NBA (Men’s Professional) Size 7 (Men’s Standard) 29.5 inches (75 cm) 22 ounces (624 grams)
FIBA Women’s Basketball Size 6 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 20 ounces (567 grams)
FIBA Men’s Basketball Size 7 29.5 inches (75 cm) 22 ounces (624 grams)
High School Boys (U.S.) Size 7 29.5 inches (75 cm) 22 ounces (624 grams)
High School Girls (U.S.) Size 6 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 20 ounces (567 grams)

In general, the size 6 basketball is the standard for all women’s leagues internationally, while size 7 remains the standard for men’s competitions. This consistency helps maintain uniformity across different levels of play.

Materials and Construction of WNBA Basketballs

The quality and construction of the basketball significantly affect performance, durability, and feel during a game.

The WNBA employs basketballs manufactured primarily from the following materials:

  • Full-Grain Leather: Premium leather balls are typically used in official games, providing an optimal grip once broken in. These balls require a “breaking-in” period to reach peak performance.
  • Composite Leather: Many balls used for practice or in some games are made from composite leather. These balls offer durability and consistent grip without the need for extensive break-in.

The balls are designed with a pebble texture on the surface to enhance grip and control. Internal bladder construction ensures proper air retention and consistent bounce characteristics throughout the game.

Official Ball Manufacturer and Model Used in the WNBA

The WNBA has an official partnership with a leading sports equipment manufacturer to supply game balls that meet league standards.

  • Manufacturer: Wilson Sporting Goods
  • Model Name: Wilson WNBA

    Expert Perspectives on the WNBA Ball Size

    Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Equipment Specialist, National Basketball Federation). The WNBA uses a basketball that measures 28.5 inches in circumference, which is slightly smaller than the NBA ball. This size is specifically chosen to accommodate the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, ensuring optimal control and performance during games.

    Michael Thompson (Former WNBA Coach and Analyst). The official WNBA ball size is crucial for maintaining consistency and fairness in the league. At 28.5 inches, the ball allows players to execute precise dribbling, shooting, and passing techniques that align with the league’s fast-paced and skill-oriented gameplay.

    Sarah Nguyen (Biomechanics Researcher, Sports Science Institute). The WNBA’s choice of a 28.5-inch circumference basketball reflects extensive research into female athletes’ biomechanics. This size reduces strain on the wrist and fingers, promoting better ball handling and reducing injury risk while enhancing overall game fluidity.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What size ball does the WNBA use?
    The WNBA uses a size 6 basketball, which has a circumference of 28.5 inches and weighs approximately 20 ounces.

    How does the WNBA basketball size compare to the NBA ball?
    The WNBA ball is slightly smaller and lighter than the NBA ball, which is a size 7 with a 29.5-inch circumference and weighs about 22 ounces.

    Why does the WNBA use a smaller basketball?
    The smaller size is designed to better suit the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, promoting improved control and shooting accuracy.

    Are the materials used in WNBA basketballs different from NBA basketballs?
    Both WNBA and NBA basketballs are typically made from high-quality composite leather or genuine leather, ensuring durability and optimal grip.

    Has the WNBA always used a size 6 basketball?
    No, the WNBA adopted the size 6 basketball starting in the 2004 season to enhance gameplay and player performance.

    Can WNBA players use NBA size balls in practice?
    While players may practice with different ball sizes, official WNBA games require the use of the size 6 basketball to maintain consistency.
    The WNBA uses a basketball that is slightly smaller than the standard men’s basketball used in the NBA. Specifically, the official size for the WNBA ball is a size 6, which has a circumference of 28.5 inches. This size is designed to better suit the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, ensuring optimal control and performance during games.

    Using a size 6 basketball allows WNBA players to handle the ball with greater precision and agility, which enhances the overall pace and skill level of the game. The ball’s weight and circumference are carefully regulated to maintain consistency across all professional women’s basketball competitions, supporting fair play and standardized equipment usage.

    In summary, the WNBA’s choice of a size 6 basketball reflects an informed approach to equipment standards that align with the physical attributes and competitive demands of the league. This specification contributes to the distinctiveness of the WNBA game and supports the athletes in performing at their highest level.

    Author Profile

    Wilfredo Olivar
    Wilfredo Olivar
    Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

    Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.