What Size Is a Women’s Basketball Ball and How Does It Differ from Men’s?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Basketball Gear & Equipment

When it comes to the fast-paced and dynamic game of women’s basketball, every detail matters — from the players’ skills to the equipment they use. One fundamental aspect that often sparks curiosity is the size of the basketball itself. Understanding the specific dimensions of a women’s basketball ball not only enhances appreciation for the game but also sheds light on how the sport is tailored to optimize performance and fairness.

Basketball balls come in various sizes depending on the level of play and gender, and the women’s basketball ball is uniquely designed to suit the game’s demands. The size influences grip, control, shooting accuracy, and overall handling, making it an essential factor for players and fans alike. Whether you’re a budding athlete, a coach, or simply a basketball enthusiast, grasping the basics about the ball’s size can deepen your connection to the sport.

In the following sections, we will explore what sets the women’s basketball ball apart, why these specifications matter, and how they impact gameplay. From official standards to practical implications, this overview will equip you with a clearer understanding of the ball that drives the women’s game forward.

Official Size and Weight Specifications for Women’s Basketballs

The official size of a women’s basketball differs from the men’s primarily in circumference and weight to accommodate variations in hand size and playing style. The governing bodies such as the NCAA, WNBA, and FIBA have standardized these dimensions to ensure consistency across all levels of play.

A women’s basketball typically has:

  • A circumference of 28.5 inches (approximately 72.4 cm).
  • A weight ranging between 18 to 20 ounces (about 510 to 567 grams).

These specifications are designed to provide optimal grip, control, and shooting accuracy for female athletes. The slightly smaller size compared to men’s basketballs (which measure 29.5 inches in circumference) allows for better handling and maneuverability.

Comparison of Basketball Sizes for Different Categories

Basketball sizes vary primarily by gender and age group. Below is a comparison table illustrating the most common sizes used in various competitions:

Category Circumference (inches) Weight (ounces) Approximate Diameter (inches)
Women’s Professional & College 28.5 18-20 9.07
Men’s Professional & College 29.5 20-22 9.39
Youth (Ages 9-11) 27.0 14-16 8.59
Youth (Ages 12-14) 28.5 17-19 9.07

Material and Construction of Women’s Basketballs

The materials used in manufacturing women’s basketballs are carefully chosen to enhance performance and durability. These basketballs are commonly made from:

  • Composite leather: A synthetic material that mimics the feel of genuine leather but offers greater durability and moisture resistance. It is ideal for both indoor and outdoor play.
  • Genuine leather: Used predominantly in professional indoor leagues, genuine leather provides a superior grip and feel once broken in but requires a significant break-in period.
  • Rubber: More common in youth or recreational balls, rubber basketballs are highly durable and suitable for outdoor use but may lack the responsiveness of leather or composite balls.

The construction typically involves multiple layers to balance softness and firmness:

  • An outer cover for grip and durability.
  • A carcass layer that provides structural integrity.
  • A bladder that holds air and maintains consistent pressure.

Choosing the Right Size for Different Levels of Play

Selecting the correct size basketball is essential for skill development and gameplay efficiency. For women and girls, adhering to the official size is crucial for competitive play, but in training or recreational contexts, the choice might vary based on comfort and proficiency.

Key considerations include:

  • Hand size: Players with smaller hands may benefit from a size 6 ball (women’s size) as it allows better control.
  • Skill level: Beginners might find smaller or lighter balls easier to handle and shoot.
  • Playing surface: Outdoor play might require a more durable, slightly heavier ball for better wear resistance.

Understanding these factors helps coaches and players select the most appropriate basketball, facilitating skill acquisition and enhancing game performance.

Standard Size Specifications for a Women’s Basketball

The official size of a women’s basketball is specifically designed to accommodate the typical hand size and playing style of female athletes. The size and weight standards are regulated by leading organizations such as the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).

Here are the key specifications for a women’s basketball ball:

  • Circumference: Approximately 28.5 inches (72.4 cm)
  • Weight: Between 18 and 20 ounces (510 to 567 grams)
  • Diameter: Roughly 9.07 inches (23 cm), derived from circumference
  • Material: Composite leather or genuine leather for professional play; rubber or synthetic materials for recreational use

The slightly smaller circumference compared to the men’s basketball (which is about 29.5 inches) allows for better ball control and shooting accuracy for women players, given average hand size differences.

Comparison of Basketball Sizes by Gender and Level of Play

Category Circumference (inches/cm) Weight (ounces/grams) Typical Usage
Women’s Basketball (Size 6) 28.5 in / 72.4 cm 18–20 oz / 510–567 g Professional and collegiate women’s leagues (WNBA, NCAA)
Men’s Basketball (Size 7) 29.5 in / 75 cm 20–22 oz / 567–624 g Professional and collegiate men’s leagues (NBA, NCAA)
Youth Basketball (Size 5) 27.5 in / 70 cm 17 oz / 482 g Youth players ages 9–11

Impact of Basketball Size on Gameplay and Performance

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

  • Grip and Handling: A smaller ball circumference allows players to have better control, dribble more effectively, and execute precise passes.
  • Shooting Accuracy: Proper ball size ensures players can release shots with natural hand positioning, leading to improved accuracy and confidence.
  • Game Speed and Strategy: The ball’s weight affects how quickly it moves through the air and rebounds off surfaces, influencing offensive and defensive plays.

Women’s basketball balls are optimized to balance these factors, providing an ideal playing experience tailored to female athletes.

Choosing the Right Basketball for Women’s Use

When selecting a basketball for women’s use, consider the following factors beyond just size and weight:

  • Material: Leather balls offer superior grip and feel but require break-in time and indoor use. Composite leather balls provide durability and versatility for both indoor and outdoor play.
  • Surface Texture: Look for deep channels and pebbled surfaces, which improve handling and control during gameplay.
  • Brand and Certification: Opt for balls approved by official organizations (e.g., WNBA, FIBA) to ensure compliance with competitive standards.
  • Inflation Pressure: Maintain recommended air pressure (typically 7.5 to 8.5 psi) to preserve optimal bounce and grip characteristics.

Expert Perspectives on the Standard Size of a Women’s Basketball Ball

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Science Researcher, National Basketball Association) states, “The official size for a women’s basketball is a Size 6 ball, which measures 28.5 inches in circumference and weighs approximately 20 ounces. This size is specifically designed to accommodate the average hand size and grip strength of female athletes, promoting better control and performance during play.”

James Mitchell (Head Coach, Women’s Collegiate Basketball Program) explains, “Using a Size 6 basketball is essential in women’s basketball competitions, as it ensures consistency across leagues and levels. The slightly smaller circumference compared to the men’s Size 7 ball allows female players to execute dribbling, shooting, and passing techniques more effectively, which is crucial for skill development and competitive fairness.”

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Biomechanics Specialist, Sports Equipment Design Lab) notes, “The design parameters of a women’s basketball ball, including its size and weight, are optimized to reduce fatigue and improve handling. The Size 6 ball balances the need for sufficient mass to maintain proper flight trajectory with a manageable grip size, which helps female athletes maintain precision and endurance throughout the game.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What size is a women’s basketball ball?
A women’s basketball ball is typically a Size 6, which has a circumference of 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) and weighs about 20 ounces (567 grams).

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

Is the size of the basketball used in women’s professional leagues standardized?
Yes, professional women’s leagues such as the WNBA use a Size 6 basketball, adhering to official regulations.

Can men use a women’s basketball ball for practice?
Yes, men can use a women’s basketball ball for practice to improve ball handling and shooting skills due to its smaller size and lighter weight.

What materials are commonly used for women’s basketball balls?
Women’s basketballs are commonly made from composite leather or genuine leather, providing durability and good grip for indoor and outdoor play.

Are youth basketballs the same size as women’s basketballs?
No, youth basketballs are generally smaller than women’s basketballs, with sizes varying based on age groups, typically ranging from Size 5 to Size 6.
The standard size for a women’s basketball is a Size 6 ball, which has a circumference of 28.5 inches (72.4 cm) and typically weighs about 20 ounces (567 grams). This size is specifically designed to accommodate the average hand size and playing style of female athletes, providing better control and handling during the game. It is used in professional women’s leagues such as the WNBA as well as in collegiate and high school competitions.

Using the appropriate basketball size is crucial for skill development, performance, and injury prevention. A Size 6 ball allows female players to execute dribbling, shooting, and passing techniques more effectively compared to the larger men’s Size 7 ball. Coaches and trainers emphasize the importance of using the correct ball size to enhance player confidence and overall game experience.

In summary, understanding that a women’s basketball is a Size 6 ball helps players, coaches, and enthusiasts make informed decisions about equipment selection. This knowledge supports optimal training conditions and aligns with official regulations across various levels of women’s basketball competition. Adhering to these standards ensures consistency and fairness in the sport.

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.