Basketball Balls Molten
Our Molten page brings together basketballs from the Japanese brand that supplies FIBA competitions: the BG2010 in rubber, designed for playgrounds, the BG3000 in composite leather, comfortable both indoors and outdoors, and the technical training ball, certified by the French federation. You will find guidelines for choosing the size according to the category and keeping your ball in good condition.
The reference for international competition balls.
Molten, from Hiroshima to FIBA competitions
Molten was founded in 1958 in Hiroshima, Japan, and specialises in sports balls. Its connection to international basketball dates back to the 1982 World Championship: since then, its balls have been used in major FIBA competitions. Since August 2019, the BG5000 has been the match ball for all international FIBA competitions, featuring a thicker foam layer that makes it softer to the touch. The brand developed a twelve-panel design, created in collaboration with Italian design studio Giugiaro, which provides multiple grip points for shooting and dribbling.
Other brands
Basketballs are also available by brand:
All balls can be found on the balls page.
BG2010, BG3000 and training ball: three uses
The BG2010 has a natural rubber cover with deep grooves, providing grip and resistance to concrete, asphalt playgrounds, and synthetic surfaces: it’s the ball for playgrounds, basketball schools, and outdoor play. The BG3000 features a composite leather with parallel grain, which is scratch-resistant: it’s suitable for club training year-round, indoors and outdoors, with a feel closer to a match ball. The training technical ball, made of rubber on a reinforced nylon carcass with a butyl bladder, is certified by the FFBB and maintains its spherical shape on any courts.
Pressure and maintenance: making a Molten ball last
A well-inflated Molten ball meets the bounce test of FIBA regulations: dropped from a height of 1.8 meters, it must rebound between 1.2 and 1.4 meters, measured at the top of the ball. Inflate to the pressure indicated near the valve using a lubricated needle inserted straight to avoid damaging the valve. A composite ball is cleaned with a slightly damp cloth, without detergent, and then air-dried. Store it away from sunlight and heaters, which harden the cover, and avoid sitting on it, which can deform the carcass.
Good deals
Great deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a consistent order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school period.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between the Molten BG4500 and the BG5000?
The BG5000 has been the FIBA match ball for international competitions since 2019, featuring a thicker foam layer. The BG4500, also FIBA approved, is a composite leather ball commonly used in clubs for games and training.
What size of Molten ball is suitable for a teenager or a female player?
Size seven is used for boys from under fifteen and men. Size six is used for women, as well as girls and boys under thirteen.
What size to choose for a child starting basketball?
Size five is for children in the under nine and under eleven categories, while size three, smaller and lighter, is for toddlers starting to dribble in baby basketball. A ball that fits their hand makes the action easier.
Why does a new Molten composite ball slip?
The new cover retains a thin manufacturing film. After a few sessions of dribbling and passing, the grain reveals itself and grip improves. Avoid sanding or washing it with soap to speed up this break-in.
Can an outdoor Molten ball be used indoors?
Yes, a rubber ball like the BG2010 can be used on hardwood, providing a firmer feel. The reverse is less advisable: a high-end indoor ball quickly loses its grain on asphalt.
