What Is the Size of a Regular Basketball?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Basketball History & Insights

When it comes to basketball, one of the first things players, coaches, and enthusiasts often wonder about is the size of the ball itself. Understanding the dimensions of a regular basketball is more than just a matter of curiosity—it plays a crucial role in how the game is played, how players handle the ball, and even how the sport is standardized across different leagues and levels. Whether you’re a beginner picking up the sport or a seasoned fan looking to deepen your knowledge, knowing what constitutes a “regular” basketball size is fundamental.

The size of a basketball can influence everything from shooting accuracy to dribbling control, making it an essential piece of equipment that’s carefully regulated. Different organizations and age groups may use varying sizes, but there is a standard that is widely recognized as the norm for professional and most amateur play. This standardization helps maintain consistency in gameplay and ensures that players develop skills that are transferable across different courts and competitions.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what exactly defines a regular basketball, including its measurements and how it compares to other sizes used in the sport. Whether you’re shopping for a basketball or simply looking to understand the game better, this overview will provide the foundational knowledge you need before diving into the specifics.

Standard Dimensions of a Regular Basketball

A regular basketball, commonly used in professional men’s basketball leagues such as the NBA, has standardized dimensions that ensure consistency in gameplay. The size and weight of the basketball directly affect handling, shooting, and overall performance on the court.

The official circumference of a regular men’s basketball is approximately 29.5 inches (75 cm). Its weight typically ranges between 20 to 22 ounces (567 to 624 grams). This size is referred to as a “Size 7” basketball. The diameter, which can be derived from the circumference, is roughly 9.39 inches (23.85 cm).

For women’s professional basketball, such as the WNBA, a slightly smaller basketball is used — known as a “Size 6.” This ball has a circumference of about 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) and weighs around 18 to 20 ounces (510 to 567 grams).

The size differences are carefully designed to accommodate differences in hand size and strength, optimizing control and precision during play.

Detailed Specifications of Basketball Sizes

The following table outlines the key measurements for various standard basketball sizes commonly used in different leagues and age groups:

Basketball Size Typical Use Circumference (inches/cm) Weight (ounces/grams) Diameter (inches/cm)
Size 7 Men’s Professional & Collegiate 29.5 in / 75 cm 20-22 oz / 567-624 g 9.39 in / 23.85 cm
Size 6 Women’s Professional & Collegiate 28.5 in / 72.4 cm 18-20 oz / 510-567 g 9.07 in / 23.03 cm
Size 5 Youth (Ages 9-11) 27.5 in / 70 cm 17 oz / 482 g 8.75 in / 22.22 cm
Size 4 Youth (Ages 5-8) 25.5 in / 65 cm 14 oz / 397 g 8.12 in / 20.6 cm

Factors Influencing Basketball Size Selection

Choosing the correct basketball size is essential for effective skill development and gameplay. Several factors influence the appropriate size of a basketball for different players:

  • Age and Physical Development: Younger players benefit from smaller, lighter balls that are easier to grip and control, aiding in skill acquisition.
  • Gender: Women’s basketball generally uses a slightly smaller and lighter ball compared to men’s basketball to better suit average hand size and strength.
  • Level of Play: Professional and collegiate athletes use official-sized balls (Size 7 for men, Size 6 for women) to prepare for competitive play.
  • Purpose of Use: Training balls might differ in size and weight to target specific skills, such as shooting accuracy or ball handling.

Selecting the correct basketball size ensures optimal performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances the overall playing experience.

Standard Dimensions and Specifications of a Regular Basketball

A regular basketball typically refers to the size used in most adult men’s professional and collegiate leagues, such as the NBA and NCAA. The size of the basketball is standardized to ensure consistency in gameplay, handling, and shooting performance.

The official size and weight specifications for a regular basketball are as follows:

Specification Measurement Units
Circumference 29.5 inches (75 cm)
Weight 22 ounces (approximately 624 grams)
Diameter 9.39 inches (23.9 cm)

These dimensions correspond to what is commonly known as a “Size 7” basketball. This size is predominantly used in men’s professional and collegiate basketball games worldwide.

Variations in Basketball Sizes by Age and Gender

While the Size 7 basketball is the standard for adult men, different sizes exist to accommodate players of varying ages and genders, which influence ball handling and control.

  • Size 7 (Men’s Standard): Circumference 29.5 inches, weight 22 ounces — used in professional men’s leagues and older male players (typically ages 15 and up).
  • Size 6 (Women’s Standard): Circumference 28.5 inches, weight 20 ounces — commonly used in women’s professional leagues such as the WNBA, as well as girls’ high school and college basketball.
  • Size 5 (Youth): Circumference 27.5 inches, weight 17 ounces — designed for boys and girls aged 9 to 11, helping younger players develop skills with an appropriately sized ball.
  • Size 4 and below (Children): Smaller sizes with circumferences ranging from 22 to 25.5 inches, used for children under 8 years old to encourage easier handling and shooting.

Material and Construction of a Regular Basketball

The quality and material of a regular basketball affect its performance, grip, and durability. Standard professional basketballs are made from one of the following materials:

  • Leather: Used predominantly in professional indoor leagues such as the NBA. Genuine leather basketballs provide excellent grip and feel but require a break-in period and are not suitable for outdoor use.
  • Composite Leather (Synthetic): These basketballs are made from synthetic materials that mimic leather’s feel and grip. They are more versatile, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and are common in recreational and amateur play.
  • Rubber: Typically used for outdoor and youth basketballs. Rubber balls are highly durable but may offer less grip and control compared to leather or composite options.

The internal construction includes a bladder to maintain air pressure and a carcass or winding to provide shape and bounce consistency. Proper inflation is critical; the recommended pressure for a regular basketball is usually between 7.5 to 8.5 psi.

Expert Perspectives on the Standard Size of a Basketball

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Science Researcher, National Basketball Association). The regular basketball used in professional men’s leagues typically measures a size 7, which means it has a circumference of 29.5 inches and weighs about 22 ounces. This size is standardized to ensure consistent handling and performance across all competitive play.

Michael Thompson (Certified Basketball Coach and Trainer). When we refer to a regular basketball, we usually mean the size 7 ball, which is designed for players aged 15 and older. Its dimensions are carefully regulated to balance grip, bounce, and control, making it ideal for both training and official games.

Linda Nguyen (Equipment Specialist, Global Sports Manufacturing). The standard or regular basketball size—size 7—is manufactured with precise specifications: a circumference of 29.5 inches and a weight close to 22 ounces. These measurements are critical for maintaining uniformity in gameplay and ensuring that players develop skills on equipment that meets international standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the standard size of a regular basketball?
A regular basketball for men’s professional play is size 7, with a circumference of 29.5 inches (75 cm) and a weight of approximately 22 ounces (620 grams).

Are there different basketball sizes for men and women?
Yes, women’s basketballs are typically size 6, with a circumference of 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) and a weight of about 20 ounces (570 grams).

What size basketball is used for youth players?
Youth players commonly use size 5 basketballs, which have a circumference of 27.5 inches (70 cm) and weigh around 17 ounces (480 grams).

How does the size of a basketball affect gameplay?
The size influences grip, control, and shooting accuracy. Using the correct size ensures optimal performance and reduces the risk of injury.

Can I use a regular basketball for outdoor play?
Regular basketballs designed for indoor use may wear out quickly outdoors. Outdoor basketballs are made with more durable materials to withstand rough surfaces.

Is the size of a basketball the same worldwide?
Yes, international basketball competitions follow FIBA standards, which align closely with NBA sizes for men and women, ensuring consistency globally.
The size of a regular basketball is standardized to ensure consistency in play across various levels of the sport. For men’s professional and collegiate basketball, the official size is typically a Size 7 basketball, which measures about 29.5 inches in circumference and weighs approximately 22 ounces. This size is designed to provide optimal grip, control, and performance for adult male players. For women’s basketball, the standard size is slightly smaller, known as Size 6, with a circumference of about 28.5 inches and a weight of around 20 ounces.

Understanding the correct basketball size is crucial for players, coaches, and enthusiasts, as it directly impacts handling, shooting accuracy, and overall gameplay. Using the appropriate size basketball ensures that players develop proper technique and skills that translate effectively during competitive play. Additionally, youth basketball leagues often use smaller sizes, such as Size 5 or Size 4, to accommodate younger players and promote skill development in a more manageable format.

In summary, the regular basketball size varies depending on the level of play and the gender of the participants, with Size 7 being the standard for men’s basketball and Size 6 for women’s basketball. Selecting the right basketball size is essential for maintaining the integrity of the game and

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.