What Type of Basketball Does the NBA Use?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

When it comes to professional basketball, every detail matters—from the players’ skills to the court they play on. One element that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in the game’s flow and feel is the basketball itself. Fans and aspiring players alike frequently wonder: what basketball does the NBA use? Understanding the specifics behind the official game ball offers a fascinating glimpse into the standards and traditions that shape the world’s premier basketball league.

The NBA basketball is more than just a sphere of leather and air; it represents a blend of craftsmanship, technology, and regulation designed to optimize performance and consistency. From its size and weight to the materials used, the official ball is meticulously engineered to meet the demands of professional play. This attention to detail ensures that every dribble, pass, and shot feels just right, maintaining the high level of competition fans expect.

Exploring the NBA’s choice of basketball reveals not only the league’s commitment to quality but also how the ball’s design influences the game itself. Whether you’re a curious fan, a player looking to elevate your skills, or simply intrigued by sports equipment, diving into the specifics of the NBA basketball offers valuable insights into the heart of the game.

Specifications and Materials of the NBA Basketball

The basketball used in the NBA is crafted to meet precise specifications that ensure uniformity and optimal performance during play. The official NBA basketball is produced by Wilson, the league’s exclusive supplier since the 2021-2022 season, replacing Spalding. Wilson’s basketballs are designed to provide consistent grip, bounce, and durability in the fast-paced environment of professional basketball.

The primary material of the NBA basketball is full-grain leather, which is carefully selected and treated to achieve a perfect balance between softness and firmness. This high-quality leather surface allows players to maintain excellent ball control and grip, especially after the initial “breaking-in” period during games.

Key specifications of the NBA basketball include:

  • Circumference: 29.5 inches (75 cm), which corresponds to a size 7 basketball, the standard for men’s professional play.
  • Weight: Approximately 22 ounces (620 grams).
  • Bladder: The inner bladder is made from butyl rubber, which ensures excellent air retention and consistent bounce throughout the game.
  • Panel Design: The ball features eight panels that are stitched together using durable nylon thread. The seams are slightly recessed to enhance grip.
  • Color: Traditional orange with black channel lines to assist in visual tracking and ball handling.

Comparison of NBA Basketball Features

Below is a comparison table highlighting the NBA basketball’s key features relative to other commonly used basketballs in professional and collegiate play:

Feature NBA (Wilson) WNBA (Wilson) NCAA (Wilson/Spalding) FIBA
Material Full-grain leather Full-grain leather Composite leather or genuine leather Composite leather
Circumference 29.5 in (75 cm) 28.5 in (72.4 cm) 29.5 in (75 cm) 29.5 in (75 cm)
Weight 22 oz (620 g) 20 oz (567 g) 22 oz (620 g) 22 oz (620 g)
Panel Count 8 panels 8 panels 8 panels 8 panels
Bladder Type Butyl rubber Butyl rubber Butyl rubber Butyl rubber
Grip Technology Textured leather surface with recessed seams Textured leather surface with recessed seams Varies by manufacturer Textured composite surface

Breaking-In and Maintenance of NBA Basketballs

NBA basketballs require a breaking-in period before they achieve their optimal playing characteristics. New leather basketballs initially have a slick surface, which can affect grip and handling. Through use, the leather softens and the texture becomes more pronounced, allowing players to better control the ball.

To maintain the quality and longevity of an NBA basketball, several practices are recommended:

  • Proper Storage: Store the ball in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage and leather cracking.
  • Inflation: Maintain recommended pressure levels, typically between 7.5 and 8.5 psi, to ensure proper bounce and feel.
  • Cleaning: Wipe the surface regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can degrade the leather.
  • Avoid Outdoor Use: NBA basketballs are designed for indoor hardwood courts and may deteriorate rapidly if used on rough outdoor surfaces.

These maintenance routines help preserve the ball’s performance characteristics, ensuring consistency during competitive play.

Technological Enhancements in NBA Basketballs

Recent advancements in basketball manufacturing have been incorporated into the NBA basketball to enhance player experience and ball performance. Wilson has integrated subtle technological improvements while maintaining traditional design elements.

Some of these enhancements include:

  • Enhanced Grip Texture: The leather surface has been micro-textured to improve tactile feedback without compromising the classic feel.
  • Improved Stitching: Reinforced nylon stitching increases durability and reduces seam wear during intense gameplay.
  • Consistent Bounce: The bladder and internal air retention system are engineered to maintain consistent pressure for uniform bounce characteristics throughout the game.
  • Environmental Considerations: Wilson has adopted more sustainable manufacturing processes and materials to reduce environmental impact.

These technological upgrades contribute to the high standards expected in the NBA, supporting elite performance and player satisfaction.

Official Basketball Used by the NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) uses a highly specialized basketball that meets strict standards for size, weight, grip, and material to ensure consistent performance throughout games and seasons. The official game ball is manufactured by Wilson, having replaced Spalding as the official supplier starting with the 2021-2022 NBA season.

The NBA basketball is designed to optimize grip, durability, and visibility, catering to the fast-paced and high-skill nature of professional basketball.

Specifications of the NBA Official Basketball

Attribute Details
Manufacturer Wilson
Model Wilson NBA Official Game Ball
Material Full-grain leather
Size 29.5 inches (circumference) – Size 7 (Men’s standard)
Weight 22 ounces (approximately 620 grams)
Color Traditional orange with black channel lines
Grip Technology Microfiber composite lining under leather for enhanced grip and moisture absorption
Channel Design Deep channels for improved ball handling and control

Material and Construction Features

The Wilson NBA basketball is crafted from premium full-grain leather, which offers superior feel and durability compared to synthetic alternatives. The leather is hand-stitched and tanned to maintain consistency in texture and performance.

  • Leather Quality: Full-grain leather ensures a break-in period after which the ball becomes softer and more responsive to player handling.
  • Inner Lining: The ball incorporates a microfiber composite lining beneath the leather surface, improving moisture absorption and grip during play.
  • Bladder: A butyl rubber bladder inside the ball maintains air retention and consistent bounce throughout the game.
  • Channel Design: Deep and wide channels separate the ball’s panels, enhancing finger grip and ball control for advanced dribbling and shooting.

Transition from Spalding to Wilson

Prior to 2021, Spalding was the exclusive supplier of the NBA’s official game ball for nearly four decades. The switch to Wilson was driven by Wilson’s extensive heritage in basketball manufacturing and innovation in material technologies.

  • The Wilson ball retains similar size and weight standards to Spalding’s but introduces a slightly different leather composition and grip technology.
  • Players initially noted a break-in period with the new Wilson ball, similar to the Spalding ball’s leather characteristics.
  • Wilson’s design aims to improve consistency in bounce and grip, especially in different humidity and temperature conditions.

Use of Basketballs in Different NBA Settings

Setting Basketball Type Details
Regular Season & Playoffs Wilson NBA Official Game Ball Full-grain leather, standard size and weight, used in all official NBA games
NBA G League Wilson NBA G League Game Ball Similar leather construction but with minor design variations for developmental league play
NBA Summer League Wilson Official Ball Same model as regular season to maintain consistency for player development
Practice Synthetic or Leather Composite Basketballs Teams often use synthetic balls in practice sessions for durability and lower cost

Expert Insights on the Official NBA Basketball

Dr. Michael Harris (Sports Equipment Engineer, ProBall Technologies). The NBA uses a basketball specifically designed for professional play, crafted from full-grain leather to ensure optimal grip and durability. This ball is manufactured by Wilson, featuring a precise 29.5-inch circumference and weighing approximately 22 ounces, meeting the league’s strict standards for performance consistency.

Linda Martinez (Former NBA Player and Current Sports Analyst). The Wilson NBA Official Game Ball is unique because it breaks in over time, allowing players to develop a better feel and control during games. Its design balances softness and firmness, which is crucial for high-level play, making it the preferred choice for both players and coaches in the league.

James O’Connor (Head of Product Development, Wilson Sporting Goods). Our collaboration with the NBA ensures that the basketball used in games undergoes rigorous testing for air retention, surface texture, and overall performance. The leather used is sourced from top tanneries and treated to provide consistent bounce and handling under various playing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of basketball does the NBA use?
The NBA uses the official Spalding NBA Game Ball, which is made of genuine full-grain leather.

Has the NBA basketball brand changed recently?
Yes, starting from the 2021-2022 season, Wilson replaced Spalding as the official supplier of NBA game balls.

What are the specifications of an NBA basketball?
An NBA basketball has a circumference of 29.5 inches (size 7) and weighs approximately 22 ounces.

Why does the NBA use leather basketballs instead of synthetic ones?
Leather basketballs provide superior grip, durability, and feel, which are essential for professional-level play.

Are the NBA basketballs used in all NBA games identical?
Yes, all official NBA games use standardized basketballs to ensure consistency in performance and playability.

How often are NBA basketballs replaced during a game?
NBA basketballs are regularly rotated and replaced throughout the game to maintain optimal condition and performance.
The NBA uses a highly specialized basketball designed to meet the rigorous standards of professional play. The official game ball is manufactured by Wilson, featuring full-grain leather that ensures optimal grip, durability, and performance. This basketball is meticulously crafted to provide consistent bounce, control, and feel, which are essential for the fast-paced and skill-intensive nature of NBA games.

Over the years, the NBA has maintained a commitment to quality and innovation in its choice of basketballs. The Wilson NBA Official Game Ball incorporates advanced materials and construction techniques to enhance player experience. This includes a cushioned inner lining and precision stitching, which contribute to the ball’s longevity and responsiveness on the court.

In summary, the basketball used by the NBA represents the pinnacle of sports equipment design, tailored specifically to the demands of professional basketball. Its superior craftsmanship and performance characteristics are key factors that support the high level of competition and entertainment the league is known for. Understanding the specifications and quality of the NBA basketball offers valuable insight into the standards upheld in professional basketball.

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.