Basketball: indoor sales

Size five, six or seven: which ball according to the category

The size of the ball depends on the player's category. The size seven ball, with a circumference of 749 to 780 millimetres and weighing 567 to 650 grams, is for men and boys from adolescence onwards. Size six, measuring 724 to 737 millimetres, is used for women's basketball and intermediate categories; size five, smaller and lighter, is for mini-basketball. The 3x3 ball, for which Wilson provides the official model, has the circumference of a size six and the weight of a size seven: it's easy to handle and withstands wind better outdoors. For toddlers, a foam ball like the one from Tremblay helps them learn to dribble and shoot without worrying about their fingers.

The other indoor sales

Indoor sales also include:

• Volleyball, balls, knee pads and shoes.

All indoor sales are gathered on the indoor page.

Composite or rubber: one ball for indoors, one for the playground

The cover determines the use. Indoors, a composite leather ball, like the Spalding from the Legacy range, offers precise handling and a consistent touch, but it wears out quickly on asphalt. Outdoors, a rubber ball can withstand the abrasion of tar and rebounds against wire fencing: this is the case for the Spalding Varsity, the Layup or the Nike Everyday Playground, designed for the local court as its name suggests. A ball should be inflated to the pressure indicated near the valve, using a moistened needle to avoid damaging it: if it's too hard, it bounces badly and tires the fingers; if it's too soft, it slows down dribbling and skews shots.

Signature shoes: adidas, Puma and Li Ning

Signature shoes bear the name of a player and are inspired by their style. At adidas, the line of Anthony Edwards, a guard known for his jumping ability, sits alongside D.O.N. Issue by Donovan Mitchell and the Harden range, designed for James Harden's pace changes. Puma has entrusted LaMelo Ball with a line in bold colours, reflecting this creative point guard. Li Ning, a Chinese brand, launched its Wade line with Dwyane Wade in 2012, which earned him a lifetime contract signed in 2018. A basketball shoe is also chosen based on position: higher tops and reinforced support for forwards, lower and lighter models for guards who rely on speed.

Reversible jerseys, nets and bags: equipping a club

For a club, sales are a great time to complete the collective equipment. Reversible jerseys, like those from Macron or the Errea Chicago tank top, offer two colours in one garment: they can be turned inside out to form two teams during practice. The ball bags from Tremblay, holding up to fifteen balls, make trips to the gym easier. The nets for baskets, such as the Wilson NBA Recreational, should be replaced as soon as they fray, especially on outdoor baskets exposed to the elements. Mini-balls and bouncing balls in the colours of NBA franchises also make appreciated gifts for young fans.

Frequently asked questions

How to learn basketball when starting out?

You start with dribbling with your right and left hand, then shooting close to the basket while working on your elbow and wrist position. Joining a club, starting with mini-basket for children, helps to learn the rules and team play.

How many players are on a basketball team?

In traditional basketball, there are five players per team on the court, and substitutions are unlimited. In 3x3, an Olympic discipline since the Tokyo Games, each team has three players and one substitute on a half court.

What is the height of a basketball hoop?

The official hoop is set at three meters five from the ground. In mini-basket, younger players play on hoops lowered to two meters sixty, which allows them to shoot with good technique.

How to maintain a basketball?

It should be wiped after each session with a slightly damp cloth and stored away from sunlight and frost. Avoid sitting on it or hitting it with your foot, as this can distort its structure and affect its bounce.

Why is a basketball short so long?

The basketball shorts go down to the knee while remaining loose for complete freedom of movement during jumps and pivots. The lightweight and breathable material, often mesh, dries quickly during matches.