The official size of a basketball is determined by the league officials, as well as the players. Scroll down the following article to know more about this subject.
It is important to know the game that you want to thoroughly pursue. Ever wondered what is the size of the basketball, which some of you might be adoring a lot? However inconsequential it might appear to be, it is essential to know this fact. The official measurements and league regulations for a basketball include its circumference, inflation pressure, and weight. In a few cases, the material or manufacturer may also be mentioned.
Sizes and Specifications
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) - Women
For a women's match, the NCAA states that the basketball used is of size 6. It has a circumference ranging between 28.5 and 29 inches, and weighs between 18 and 20 oz. When dropped from 6 feet, the bounce height should be between 51 and 56 inches.
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) - Men
The requirements of this association are not as stringent as compared to the National Basketball League (NBA) or International Basketball Federation (FIBA). A size 7 ball is the standard for men's tournaments. The circumference measures between 29.5 and 30 inches, and the ball has a weight in the range of 20 and 22 oz. Ultimately, there has to be a bounce 49 to 54 inches in height, if it is dropped from 6 feet.
National Basketball League
To begin with, the NBA basketball is produced by Spalding, and the official size for men's tournaments has to be 29.5 inches in circumference. With a weight of 22 oz., the ball can be inflated with a pressure range of 7.5 to 8.5 psi. These balls are made up of orange leather having black lettering, and are of size 7. For the women, the size is a little different. Again, mostly made by Spalding, the ball for women's NBA is smaller (size 6). The circumference ranges between 28.5 and 29 inches, and it weighs between 18 and 20 oz. It can be further inflated till a maximum pressure of 9 psi. The ball is made up of alternating orange and white leather patterns.
International Basketball Federation (FIBA)
The rules are very strict as far as FIBA is concerned about the ball used in its games. It has to be a size 7, and the name of the manufacturer and the serial number should be present on it. The circumference is 30.7 inches, and the weight is between 567 and 650 gm. When dropped from a height of 70.8 inches, the ball should bounce to a minimum height of 51.2 inches. These FIBA approved balls have to pass a series of stringent tests (For example, heat test and valve test). Official basketball height is not a plausible dimension, and hence, it is not standard anywhere.
Juniors and Youngsters
For the juniors, the NBA recommendations are basketballs of circumference of 27.75 inches, which is size 5, and weighing around 18 oz. For children who are still younger below the age of 7, it is suggested to use a ball with a circumference of 22 inches, and weight around 8 oz.
