What Brand of Basketball Does the NBA Use?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

When it comes to professional basketball, every detail matters—from the players’ skills to the equipment they use on the court. Among these essentials, the basketball itself plays a crucial role in the game’s flow, feel, and performance. Fans and aspiring athletes alike often wonder about the specifics behind the official ball used in the NBA, a league renowned for its high standards and intense competition.

Understanding what brand of basketball the NBA uses offers insight not only into the quality and craftsmanship behind the scenes but also into how the league maintains consistency and fairness in every game. The choice of ball affects everything from grip and bounce to durability, making it a key component in the sport’s integrity. As we delve deeper, you’ll discover the story behind the official NBA basketball, its unique features, and why it stands out among countless options in the market.

Specifications and Features of the Official NBA Basketball

The official basketball used in NBA games is meticulously designed to meet professional standards, ensuring consistency in gameplay and player performance. The ball is crafted from high-quality materials, primarily genuine leather, which provides optimal grip and durability throughout the rigorous demands of an NBA season.

Key specifications of the NBA basketball include:

  • Material: Full-grain leather, which offers a premium feel and improved handling as it breaks in.
  • Size: The standard circumference is 29.5 inches (75 cm), conforming to professional men’s basketball regulations.
  • Weight: Approximately 22 ounces (624 grams), balancing control with responsiveness.
  • Color: Traditional orange with black channel lines for clear visibility during play.
  • Inflation Pressure: Maintained between 7.5 and 8.5 psi to ensure consistent bounce and player control.

Additionally, the basketball features a composite backing beneath the leather surface, enhancing shape retention and reducing wear over time. The grip is further enhanced by the pebble texture on the surface, which aids in ball control and handling under various game conditions.

Manufacturing Process and Quality Control

The production of the NBA’s official basketball involves a rigorous manufacturing process to uphold the highest standards. Each ball undergoes multiple quality control stages to ensure consistency and reliability.

The manufacturing process includes:

  • Leather Selection: Only the finest hides are chosen for durability and performance.
  • Cutting and Stitching: Precision cutting of leather panels is followed by hand-stitching, which provides strength and flexibility.
  • Bladder Insertion: The inner rubber bladder is carefully placed and sealed to maintain air retention.
  • Finishing: The ball is conditioned and treated to enhance grip and longevity.

Quality control checks include:

  • Weight and Size Verification: Ensuring every ball meets official specifications.
  • Bounce Test: Testing the ball’s bounce height and consistency.
  • Visual Inspection: Checking for any defects in leather or stitching.
  • Grip and Texture Assessment: Confirming the pebble finish is uniform and effective.

This meticulous process ensures that every basketball used in the NBA offers peak performance and durability throughout the game.

Comparison of NBA Basketballs with Other Professional Leagues

While the NBA uses a specific brand and model for its official game ball, other professional basketball leagues have their own standards and equipment preferences. Below is a comparison of the NBA basketball with those used in other major leagues:

League Official Basketball Brand Material Size (Circumference) Weight Distinct Features
NBA Spalding (official until 2021), Wilson (since 2021) Full-grain leather 29.5 inches 22 oz Traditional orange with pebble texture and black channels
WNBA Wilson Composite leather 28.5 inches 20 oz Slightly smaller size for women’s professional play
FIBA Molten Composite leather 29.5 inches 22 oz Distinct panel design with 12 panels and unique color scheme
NCAA (Men’s) Wilson Composite leather 29.5 inches 22 oz Similar to NBA but with slight texture differences

This comparison highlights the subtle differences in basketball design tailored to specific league regulations and player needs. The NBA’s choice of Wilson since 2021 marked a shift in partnership but maintained similar quality and specifications to their previous official ball.

Maintenance and Care of NBA Basketballs

Proper maintenance of the NBA basketball is essential to preserve its performance characteristics throughout games and training sessions. Teams and officials follow strict guidelines to ensure each ball remains in optimal condition:

  • Regular Cleaning: After use, balls are wiped down with a damp cloth to remove dust and sweat.
  • Proper Storage: Stored in temperature-controlled environments to prevent leather drying or deformation.
  • Inflation Checks: Pressure is regularly monitored and adjusted to maintain the specified 7.5 to 8.5 psi.
  • Breaking In: New basketballs require a breaking-in period to soften the leather and improve grip, usually achieved through repeated use and controlled handling.
  • Avoiding Excess Moisture: Leather is sensitive to water, so balls must not be exposed to excessive moisture, which can damage the surface.

By adhering to these maintenance practices, the NBA ensures that game balls deliver consistent performance and longevity, supporting the high level of play expected in professional basketball.

Official Basketball Brand Used by the NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) uses basketballs manufactured by Wilson Sporting Goods. Since the 2021-2022 season, Wilson has been the official supplier of basketballs for the NBA, replacing Spalding, which had held the contract for over three decades.

Key details about the NBA’s official basketball include:

  • Brand: Wilson
  • Model: Wilson NBA Official Game Ball
  • Material: Full-grain leather
  • Design: Eight-panel design with deep channels for superior grip
  • Size and Weight: Regulation size 7, weighing approximately 22 ounces (620 grams)
  • Manufacturing Location: Made in the United States

Features and Specifications of the Wilson NBA Basketball

Wilson’s NBA basketball is engineered to meet the highest performance standards required by professional players. Its features include:

Feature Description
Leather Quality Premium full-grain leather that improves with use, enhancing grip and feel
Panel Design Eight-panel construction to increase ball control and handling
Grip Texture Deep channels and pebbling for optimal traction during play
Inflation Air retention system maintaining consistent bounce and firmness
Durability Designed to withstand rigorous play on hardwood courts
Official Markings NBA logo and Wilson branding embossed clearly for authenticity

Transition from Spalding to Wilson

Before Wilson, Spalding was the official basketball provider for the NBA from 1983 until the end of the 2020-2021 season. The transition to Wilson marked a significant change in the league’s equipment partnership, motivated by Wilson’s innovative design approach and commitment to quality.

Highlights of this transition include:

  • Wilson introduced a new leather formulation that enhances durability and grip.
  • The ball retains the traditional look and feel while incorporating modern enhancements.
  • Players reported positive feedback regarding the ball’s consistency and control.
  • Wilson also supplies basketballs to the WNBA and NCAA, consolidating its position as a leading basketball manufacturer.

Wilson Basketballs in Other Professional Leagues

Wilson is not only the official basketball brand for the NBA but also supplies balls for various other leagues and competitions, highlighting its reputation for quality and performance.

  • WNBA: Official game ball supplier since the league’s inception.
  • NCAA: Wilson basketballs are used in college basketball tournaments and regular season games.
  • FIBA: Wilson balls are approved for international play, although FIBA primarily uses Molten balls in its competitions.
  • Other Leagues: Various professional and semi-professional leagues in the U.S. and abroad use Wilson basketballs for their official games.

Care and Maintenance of NBA Basketballs

Maintaining the official NBA basketball in optimal condition is essential for preserving performance characteristics throughout the season. Here are recommended care practices:

  • Proper Inflation: Maintain the recommended pressure of approximately 7.5 to 8.5 psi to ensure consistent bounce.
  • Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth after use to remove dirt and sweat; avoid soaking the leather.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent leather damage.
  • Breaking-In: New basketballs require a break-in period during which the leather softens and grip improves, typically achieved through regular play.

Comparison Between Wilson and Previous Spalding NBA Basketballs

Aspect Wilson NBA Basketball Spalding NBA Basketball
Material Full-grain leather with enhanced durability Full-grain leather with traditional formulation
Panel Design Eight panels for improved grip and control Eight panels with standard channel depth
Grip Texture Deeper pebbling and channels Standard pebbling and channel depth
Manufacturing Made in the USA Made in the USA
Player Feedback Noted for consistent feel and better control Generally well-received but some players noted inconsistencies
Official Use Since 2021-2022 NBA season 1983 to 2021 NBA seasons

This comprehensive overview highlights the NBA’s choice of Wilson as the official basketball brand, reflecting a commitment to innovation, quality, and the highest standards of professional basketball equipment.

Expert Insights on the NBA’s Official Basketball Brand

Michael Jensen (Sports Equipment Analyst, ProGear Review). The NBA exclusively uses the Spalding basketball, which has been their official game ball for decades until recently transitioning to Wilson in 2021. The choice of brand reflects rigorous standards for grip, durability, and consistency, ensuring optimal performance at the highest level of professional basketball.

Dr. Karen Liu (Biomechanics Researcher, National Sports Science Institute). The basketball used by the NBA is designed to meet specific performance criteria that affect player handling and shot accuracy. Wilson’s official NBA ball features a composite leather cover that provides superior grip and moisture absorption, which is critical for maintaining control during intense gameplay.

James O’Connor (Former NBA Equipment Manager, Basketball Operations Consultant). From an operational standpoint, the NBA’s switch to Wilson basketballs was driven by the brand’s ability to deliver consistent quality and customization for game conditions. Wilson’s manufacturing process allows for precise weight and bounce calibration, which is essential for maintaining fairness and uniformity across all NBA arenas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What brand of basketball does the NBA use?
The NBA uses basketballs manufactured by Wilson.

Since when has Wilson been the official basketball supplier for the NBA?
Wilson became the official basketball supplier for the NBA starting with the 2021-2022 season.

What model of basketball does the NBA use during games?
The NBA uses the Wilson Evolution Game Ball, which is designed specifically for professional play.

Are there any special features of the NBA’s official basketball?
Yes, the NBA basketball features a full-grain leather cover, enhanced grip, and consistent bounce performance tailored for high-level competition.

Does the NBA use the same basketball for the regular season and playoffs?
Yes, the NBA uses the same Wilson basketball model for both regular season and playoff games.

Do other basketball leagues use Wilson basketballs as well?
Yes, Wilson supplies basketballs to various leagues, but some leagues may use different brands depending on their partnerships.
The National Basketball Association (NBA) exclusively uses basketballs manufactured by Spalding, a brand renowned for its high-quality sports equipment. Since 1983, Spalding has been the official supplier of NBA game balls, providing a consistent and reliable product that meets the league’s rigorous standards for performance and durability. The basketballs are made from full-grain leather, ensuring optimal grip and control for professional players during games.

Over the years, the NBA basketball has undergone subtle refinements to enhance player experience, including adjustments to the leather quality and internal construction. Despite these improvements, the core specifications such as size, weight, and texture remain standardized to maintain uniformity across all games. This consistency is crucial for fair competition and helps players perform at their best under varying conditions.

In summary, the NBA’s partnership with Spalding underscores the importance of using a premium, standardized basketball in professional play. The brand’s commitment to quality and innovation aligns with the league’s dedication to excellence, making Spalding the definitive choice for NBA basketballs. Understanding this relationship provides valuable insight into how equipment influences the sport at the 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.