What Size Basketball Does the WNBA Use?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

When it comes to professional basketball, every detail matters—from the court dimensions to the ball itself. One question that often arises among fans and aspiring players alike is: what size basketball does the WNBA use? Understanding this aspect not only highlights the unique features of the women’s game but also sheds light on how the sport is tailored to enhance performance and enjoyment at the highest level.

The size of the basketball plays a crucial role in the dynamics of the game, influencing everything from dribbling and shooting to passing and ball control. While many people are familiar with the standard basketball sizes used in men’s leagues, the WNBA has its own specifications that reflect the distinct style and pace of women’s professional basketball. This subtle difference is part of what makes the WNBA experience both exciting and uniquely competitive.

In the following sections, we will explore the specifics of the WNBA basketball size, how it compares to other leagues, and why these distinctions matter. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, gaining insight into this detail offers a deeper appreciation of the game and the athletes who excel on the court.

Specifications of the WNBA Basketball

The WNBA uses a basketball that is slightly smaller than the standard men’s basketball used in the NBA. This size difference is intended to accommodate the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, promoting better grip, control, and overall game flow.

The official ball size for the WNBA is typically referred to as a “size 6” basketball, which has the following key specifications:

  • Circumference: 28.5 inches (72.4 cm)
  • Weight: Approximately 20 ounces (567 grams)
  • Material: Composite leather or genuine leather, depending on the manufacturer and level of play
  • Color: Traditional orange with black channel lines

This size is designed to enhance shooting accuracy and ball handling, aligning with the league’s emphasis on skillful play.

Comparison Between WNBA and NBA Basketball Sizes

To better understand the differences, the following table compares the official basketball specifications used by the WNBA and the NBA:

Specification WNBA Basketball (Size 6) NBA Basketball (Size 7)
Circumference 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 29.5 inches (75 cm)
Weight 20 ounces (567 grams) 22 ounces (624 grams)
Material Composite or genuine leather Genuine leather
Color Orange with black channels Orange with black channels

This size difference, though subtle, plays a significant role in the dynamics of women’s professional basketball, affecting everything from dribbling speed to shooting technique.

Impact of Basketball Size on Gameplay

The size and weight of the basketball influence various aspects of gameplay, including:

  • Ball Control: A smaller circumference allows players to have a better grip, which is crucial for ball handling and executing precise maneuvers.
  • Shooting Accuracy: Players often find it easier to control the ball’s release and backspin with a slightly smaller ball, potentially increasing shooting percentages.
  • Passing: The size aids in making quicker and more accurate passes, which is essential in fast-paced offensive plays.
  • Dribbling: A lighter ball can be easier to control during high-speed dribbling and complex movements.

Overall, the WNBA’s choice of basketball size enhances player performance by tailoring the equipment to the athletes’ physical characteristics and style of play.

Manufacturers and Official Game Balls

The WNBA has partnered with several reputable manufacturers to supply the official game balls. These manufacturers ensure that each ball meets the league’s rigorous standards for quality and performance. The most prominent brands include:

  • Wilson: Currently, Wilson is the official supplier of WNBA game balls, providing high-quality composite leather balls that are durable and consistent in performance.
  • Spalding: Historically, Spalding supplied many professional leagues, including the WNBA, with both leather and composite balls.
  • Other Brands: Some teams and leagues use custom or branded balls for promotional events, but official games always feature approved basketballs meeting league specifications.

The league continuously evaluates the materials and design to maintain a balance between tradition, player preference, and technological advancements.

Training and Practice Balls

While the official game ball adheres to the size 6 specifications, training and practice balls may vary slightly depending on the focus of the practice session. For example:

  • Some drills may utilize lighter or softer balls to reduce fatigue during extended training.
  • Youth development programs often use the same size as the WNBA to acclimate players early to the official game ball.
  • Specialty balls with enhanced grip or texture may be used for skill development.

These variations help players refine their skills and adapt to different playing conditions while maintaining consistency with the official ball size during competition.

Official Basketball Size Used in the WNBA

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) utilizes a specific basketball size designed to optimize performance for female athletes. This size differs from the men’s professional basketball, reflecting considerations such as hand size and shooting dynamics.

The WNBA basketball is officially designated as a “Size 6” ball, which is slightly smaller and lighter than the men’s “Size 7” basketball used in the NBA. The specifications are as follows:

Specification WNBA (Size 6) NBA (Size 7)
Circumference 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) 29.5 inches (75 cm)
Weight 20 ounces (567 grams) 22 ounces (624 grams)

This size difference is intentional and based on research and player feedback. A smaller, lighter ball facilitates better control, handling, and shooting accuracy for women players, aligning with biomechanical efficiency.

Material and Construction of the WNBA Basketball

The WNBA basketball is crafted with high-quality materials to ensure optimal grip, durability, and performance under professional playing conditions.

  • Cover Material: The outer surface is typically made from composite leather, providing a soft yet durable feel that enhances grip even during intense gameplay.
  • Inner Bladder: A rubber bladder ensures consistent air retention, maintaining proper inflation and bounce characteristics throughout the game.
  • Panel Design: The basketball features the traditional eight-panel design, which aids in uniform handling and control.
  • Brand Partnership: Spalding has historically been the official supplier, producing basketballs specifically engineered to meet WNBA specifications.

The combination of these materials and design elements contributes to a basketball that responds well to the unique playing style and physicality of the WNBA.

Comparison of Basketball Sizes Across Different Leagues

Understanding the basketball sizes used in various leagues helps contextualize the WNBA’s choice and highlights how size impacts gameplay.

League Ball Size Circumference Weight
WNBA Size 6 (Women’s) 28.5 inches 20 ounces
NBA Size 7 (Men’s) 29.5 inches 22 ounces
NCAA Women’s Basketball Size 6 (Women’s) 28.5 inches 20 ounces
NCAA Men’s Basketball Size 7 (Men’s) 29.5 inches 22 ounces
FIBA (International Play) Size 6 (Women’s), Size 7 (Men’s) 28.5 / 29.5 inches 20 / 22 ounces

This comparison illustrates that the WNBA aligns with international women’s basketball standards, using the size 6 ball, while men’s leagues consistently use the larger size 7 basketball.

Impact of Basketball Size on Performance in the WNBA

The choice of basketball size directly influences several aspects of gameplay, including shooting mechanics, ball handling, and overall player comfort.

Key performance impacts include:

  • Shooting Accuracy: The slightly smaller circumference allows for a better grip and more precise release, improving shooting percentages.
  • Ball Handling: Dribbling and passing are facilitated by the reduced weight and size, enabling quicker movements and enhanced control.
  • Physical Fatigue: A lighter ball reduces fatigue over the course of a game, allowing players to maintain high energy and performance levels.
  • Transition to Professional Play: College and international female players accustomed to size 6 balls experience a seamless adjustment entering the WNBA.

Overall, the basketball size adopted by the WNBA supports the athleticism and skill set of women players, promoting an optimal competitive environment.

Expert Perspectives on the WNBA Basketball Size Standards

Dr. Lisa Hammond (Sports Equipment Engineer, National Basketball Federation). The WNBA utilizes a size 6 basketball, which measures 28.5 inches in circumference. This size is specifically designed to accommodate female athletes, offering a balance between grip, control, and shooting accuracy that aligns with the league’s competitive standards.

Michael Turner (Former WNBA Coach and Sports Analyst). The adoption of a slightly smaller basketball in the WNBA compared to the NBA’s size 7 ball is crucial. It enhances player handling and shooting precision, reflecting the league’s commitment to optimizing performance and maintaining the integrity of the women’s game.

Emily Chen (Biomechanics Specialist, Women’s Professional Sports Institute). From a biomechanical perspective, the WNBA’s choice of a size 6 basketball reduces strain on players’ hands and wrists. This adjustment supports better ball control and decreases injury risk, which is essential for sustaining athlete longevity in professional women’s basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

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

Are the materials of the WNBA basketball different from other professional leagues?
The WNBA basketball is typically made of high-quality composite leather, similar to the NBA, ensuring durability and consistent performance.

Has the WNBA always used this basketball size?
Yes, since its inception, the WNBA has used the size 6 basketball to maintain consistency and accommodate the players’ needs.

Can players use other basketball sizes in WNBA games?
No, only the official size 6 basketball approved by the league is permitted for use in WNBA games and official events.
The WNBA uses a size 6 basketball, which measures 28.5 inches in circumference. This size is slightly smaller than the standard size 7 basketball used in the NBA, which measures 29.5 inches. The size 6 basketball is specifically chosen to accommodate the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, promoting better control and handling during the game.

Using a size 6 basketball in the WNBA enhances the overall quality of play by allowing players to execute skills such as dribbling, shooting, and passing more effectively. This tailored equipment choice reflects the league’s commitment to optimizing performance and ensuring the game is both competitive and enjoyable for players and fans alike.

In summary, the WNBA’s use of a size 6 basketball underscores the importance of appropriate equipment sizing in professional sports. It highlights how adjustments in equipment can support athlete performance and contribute to the distinct identity of the league within the broader basketball community.

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.