Do you know how much does a basketball weigh? Most people don’t. In this blog post, we will discuss the weight of a basketball and how it is measured. We will also talk about how the weight of a basketball affects its performance.
What is the weight of a basketball and how is it measured?
Weighing in at 18 – 22 ounces (500 – 623 grams), a standard basketball is one of the heaviest balls used in sports. That weight is measured by fill, which is how much air is inside the ball. When you think about how much does a basketball weigh, it’s important to remember that the weight can vary depending on the size and material of the ball. For example, a leather basketball will weigh more than a rubber one.
| Age | Gender | Proper basketball size by Age | Basketball Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-8 years old | Girl | 3 | 10 oz (280 grams) |
| 4-8 years old | Boy | 3 | 10 oz (280 grams) |
| 5-8 years old | Girl | 4 | 14 oz (400 grams) |
| 5-8 years old | Boy | 4 | 14 oz (400 grams) |
| 9-11 years old | Girl | 5 | 17 oz (482 grams) |
| 9-11 years old | Boy | 5 | 17 oz (482 grams) |
| 12-14 years old | Girl | 5 | 17 oz (482 grams) |
| 12-14 years old | Boy | 6 | 20 oz (568 grams) |
| 15-18 years old | Girl | 6 | 20 oz (568 grams) |
| 15-18 years old | Boy | 7 | 22 oz (623 grams) |
| Adult (>18 years old) | Woman | 6 | 20 oz (568 grams) |
| Adult (>18 years old) | Man | 7 | 22 oz (623 grams) |
How much does the NBA basketball weigh?
An official NBA basketball weighs 22 oz (623 grams). It is a size 7 basketball.
How much does a FIBA basketball weigh?
The balls used by the International Basketball Federation in men’s basketball tournaments are of the same specs as NBA basketballs. So they are size 7 and weigh 22 oz (623 grams), the same weight as the NBA basketball weight.
How much does the NCAA basketball weigh?
A college ball weighs 22 oz (623 grams). It is a size 7 basketball.
How much does a youth basketball weigh?
A youth basketball typically weighs between 14 and 20 ounces (400 to 568 grams), depending on the age we are discussing about. This is because a smaller ball is easier for younger players to handle. The weight of the ball can also affect how well it bounces, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for your child’s age and skill level.
How much do the balls used in youth basketball leagues and high school basketball leagues weigh?
In junior basketball leagues, smaller balls are used. So while professional NBA basketballs are size 7, younger men’s basketball competitions use size 6 basketballs that weigh 20 ounces (568 grams).
How much does a women’s basketball weigh?
A women’s basketball typically weighs 20 ounces (568 grams). It corresponds to a size 6 basketball that is used in WNBA basketball and other women’s professional basketball associations.
Are there any benefits to using a heavier or lighter basketball?
While the weight of a basketball may not seem like much, it can have a big impact on how well the ball performs. A heavier ball will bounce higher and travel further than a lighter one. It will also take more force to stop a heavy ball from rolling. This can be an advantage if you’re trying to keep the ball from going out of bounds. On the other hand, a lighter ball is easier to control and can be more responsive to quick movements. This can be beneficial for players who are trying to make fast plays or shots.
How do you choose the right basketball for your game?
The weight of a basketball is just one factor to consider when choosing the right ball for your game. You’ll also want to think about the material, size, and how it will be used. For example, a rubber ball may be a good choice for outdoor play, while a leather ball may be better for indoor games. The size of the ball is also important. A smaller ball may be easier to handle, but a larger one will be easier to see. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what basketball works best for your game.
For more information, check our detailed guide on basketball sizes!
How do you determine if a ball is properly inflated?
A properly inflated basketball is crucial to basketball players. To measure the air pressure you need a pressure gauge. Most modern air pumps have one attached. Make sure that you are informed about how much air should be in your basketball (7.5 to 8.5 PSI) and provided that you use an official size basketball, if you put that much air in it, you will have the proper basketball weight.
FAQs
Are NBA balls heavier?
No, an NBA basketball actually weighs the same as standard balls. They are made of composite leather and typically weigh 22 ounces (623 grams).
How much does a basketball weigh with air?
A properly inflated ball weighs 22 oz (623 grams). The more air inflation pressure you apply to a basketball, the more it weighs. However, the difference that the air inside the ball makes to the total ball weight is minimal.
Do heavier basketballs bounce higher?
Yes, generally speaking, a heavier ball will bounce higher than a lighter one. This is because a heavier ball has more air mass and therefore more momentum and flexibility. When the ball hits the ground, this momentum is transferred to the ground, causing the ball to bounce back up.
Conclusion
Now you know how much does a basketball weigh! The weight of the ball can have a big impact on how well it performs, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for your game. Thanks for reading! Do you have any questions or comments? Let us know below! And be sure to check out our guide on basketball sizes as well.
- How to Pass a Basketball (5 effective tips) - August 25, 2022
- Learn How to Spin a Basketball on your Finger in less than 3 minutes - July 18, 2022
- Where are basketballs manufactured? (hint : mostly Asia) - June 10, 2022