Basketball Size Finder
Match ball size and cover material to the player, league context, and court surface before you buy.
Player and court details
Basketball sizes at a glance
Sizing follows the standard Wilson and Spalding size tables: size 7 is the common men's regulation ball, size 6 is the common women's and intermediate ball, size 5 is the youth ball, and size 3 is the mini ball.
Mini
About 22-22.5 in. Best for very young kids, hand-eye play, and mini hoops.
Youth
About 27.5 in. Best for younger players and most first basketball purchases.
Intermediate
28.5 in. Standard for many women's leagues and a strong fit for developing players.
Official
29.5 in. Standard for men's high school, college, and professional play.
Material shortcut
- Indoor hardwood: choose composite or leather feel; keep it off asphalt.
- Driveway or blacktop: choose rubber or outdoor composite with deeper channels.
- One ball for both: choose indoor/outdoor composite and expect less premium indoor feel.
- Youth technique: if form breaks down, choose the smaller legal/practice size before chasing a heavier ball.
Sources & Further Reading
Reviewed May 29, 2026. Tool outputs are estimates for gear fit, training, or shopping context. Confirm league rules, personal fit, and safety-sensitive decisions with qualified coaches, fitters, clinicians, or local avalanche professionals where relevant.