What Size Is a Woman’s Basketball and How Does It Compare to Men’s?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Basketball History & Insights

When it comes to basketball, the size of the ball plays a crucial role in the game’s dynamics and player performance. For women’s basketball, the equipment is thoughtfully designed to complement the players’ skill sets and physical attributes, ensuring the game remains fast-paced and enjoyable. Understanding the size of a woman’s basketball not only helps fans and players alike appreciate the nuances of the sport but also aids those looking to purchase the right gear for practice or competition.

The size of a basketball can influence everything from grip and control to shooting accuracy and overall gameplay. While many people might assume that all basketballs are the same, there are distinct differences tailored to men’s, women’s, and youth leagues. These variations are carefully standardized by governing bodies to maintain fairness and consistency in the sport. Exploring the specifics of a woman’s basketball size reveals how these standards impact the game and why they matter.

Whether you’re a player, coach, or an enthusiastic follower of women’s basketball, knowing the details behind the ball’s size can deepen your appreciation for the sport. It also provides practical knowledge for selecting the right basketball for training or recreational play. In the sections that follow, we will delve into the exact dimensions, weight, and unique characteristics that define a woman’s basketball, shedding light on what makes

Standard Dimensions and Weight of a Woman’s Basketball

A woman’s basketball is designed to accommodate the average hand size and strength of female players, which differs from that of men. The official size ensures optimal grip, control, and performance during play.

The standard circumference of a women’s basketball is smaller than that of a men’s basketball. Specifically, the circumference ranges between 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) and 29 inches (73.7 cm), which corresponds to what is commonly known as a Size 6 basketball. This size is used in professional leagues such as the WNBA and most collegiate and high school women’s competitions.

In terms of weight, a woman’s basketball typically weighs between 18 and 20 ounces (approximately 510 to 570 grams). This weight balance aids in better handling and shooting accuracy, which is crucial in competitive women’s basketball.

Comparison of Basketball Sizes by Gender and Age

Basketball sizes vary not only by gender but also by age groups, reflecting the need to match the ball to the players’ physical capabilities.

Category Size Number Circumference (inches) Weight (ounces) Typical Use
Women’s Basketball 6 28.5 – 29 18 – 20 Professional, collegiate, and high school women’s leagues
Men’s Basketball 7 29.5 20 – 22 Professional, collegiate, and high school men’s leagues
Youth Basketball (Boys and Girls, ages 9-11) 5 27.5 17 Youth leagues and training
Younger Children (ages 5-8) 4 25.5 14 – 16 Beginner basketball, training for young children

Materials and Construction Differences

The material and construction of a woman’s basketball are tailored to enhance performance and durability. Typically, women’s basketballs are made from composite leather or full-grain leather, which provides a soft yet durable surface. This enables better grip and control, especially when players’ hands are smaller or less strong than those of male players.

Key features include:

  • Composite Leather: Offers excellent grip and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. It also requires less break-in time.
  • Full-Grain Leather: Preferred for indoor professional games due to its superior feel and control, but it requires a break-in period.
  • Bladder Type: Most basketballs have a rubber or latex bladder for air retention, maintaining consistent bounce and shape.

The combination of size, weight, and material ensures that women’s basketballs meet the needs of female athletes, contributing to skill development and competitive gameplay.

Regulations Governing Women’s Basketball Size

The official size and weight of women’s basketballs are governed by organizations such as:

  • FIBA (International Basketball Federation)
  • WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association)
  • NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association)

These organizations mandate that women’s basketballs conform to specific standards to maintain uniformity and fairness in competition.

For example, FIBA’s official rules specify the use of a Size 6 basketball with a circumference of 28.5 inches and a weight of 20 ounces for women’s competitions. Similarly, the WNBA and NCAA enforce these size and weight guidelines to ensure consistency across games.

Understanding these regulations helps manufacturers produce basketballs that comply with professional requirements and allows coaches and players to select appropriate equipment for training and competition.

Standard Size for a Woman’s Basketball

A woman’s basketball is specifically designed to suit the typical hand size and strength of female players, as well as the regulations governing women’s basketball competitions. The size differs slightly from the standard men’s basketball to ensure better control and performance.

The official size for a women’s basketball is commonly referred to as a “Size 6” ball. This size is standardized across most professional, collegiate, and amateur women’s basketball leagues worldwide, including the WNBA and NCAA women’s basketball.

  • Circumference: Approximately 28.5 inches (72.4 cm)
  • Weight: Between 18 and 20 ounces (510 to 567 grams)
  • Material: Typically synthetic leather, composite leather, or genuine leather for professional play
Basketball Size Circumference (inches) Weight (ounces) Typical Use
Size 7 (Men’s) 29.5 22 Men’s Professional & College
Size 6 (Women’s) 28.5 18-20 Women’s Professional & College
Size 5 (Youth) 27.5 17 Youth Players (Ages 9-11)

Using the correct size basketball is essential for optimal grip, shooting accuracy, and overall gameplay. The slightly smaller circumference and lighter weight of the women’s basketball accommodate the average hand size and strength differences, allowing for better ball handling and control during competitive play.

Expert Insights on Women’s Basketball Ball Sizes

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Equipment Scientist, National Basketball Research Institute). The standard size for a women’s basketball is a Size 6, which measures 28.5 inches in circumference and weighs approximately 20 ounces. This size is specifically designed to accommodate the average hand size and strength of female athletes, ensuring optimal control and performance during play.

Marcus Lee (Head Coach, Women’s Collegiate Basketball Team, State University). Using a Size 6 basketball in women’s competitions is crucial because it promotes better shooting accuracy and ball handling. The slightly smaller circumference compared to the men’s Size 7 ball allows female players to execute skills more effectively, which is why leagues like the WNBA and NCAA have standardized this size.

Sarah Nguyen (Certified Athletic Trainer and Sports Biomechanist). The choice of a Size 6 basketball for women also reduces the risk of injury by minimizing strain on the wrist and fingers. A ball that is too large or heavy can lead to overuse injuries, so the standardized women’s basketball size balances performance with athlete safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What size basketball is used in women’s basketball?
A women’s basketball is typically a size 6 ball, which measures about 28.5 inches in circumference.

How does a size 6 basketball differ from a men’s basketball?
A size 6 basketball is slightly smaller and lighter than a men’s size 7 ball, making it easier to handle and control for female players.

What is the weight of a women’s basketball?
A standard women’s basketball weighs approximately 20 ounces (567 grams).

Are size 6 basketballs used in all women’s basketball leagues?
Yes, size 6 basketballs are the official ball size for most women’s professional, collegiate, and high school leagues.

Can men use a women’s size basketball for practice?
Men can use a size 6 basketball for skill development, but official men’s games require a size 7 ball.

Where can I purchase an official women’s size basketball?
Official women’s size basketballs are available at most sporting goods stores and online retailers specializing in basketball equipment.
The standard size for a women’s basketball is typically a Size 6, which has a circumference of about 28.5 inches and weighs approximately 20 ounces. This size is specifically designed to accommodate the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, ensuring optimal control, handling, and shooting accuracy during gameplay. It is distinct from the men’s basketball, which is usually a Size 7 with a larger circumference and weight.

Understanding the correct basketball size is crucial for both training and competitive play, as it directly impacts performance and skill development. Using the appropriate size ball helps players improve their dribbling, passing, and shooting techniques more effectively. Additionally, official leagues and organizations, such as the WNBA and NCAA women’s basketball, mandate the use of Size 6 balls to maintain consistency and fairness in the sport.

In summary, the women’s basketball size is tailored to meet the specific needs of female players, promoting better gameplay and athletic development. Recognizing and utilizing the correct ball size is essential for coaches, players, and enthusiasts who aim to engage with the sport at any level professionally and efficiently.

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.