Basketball Dimensions & Sizes For Youth Basketball Players, Parents & Coaches

It is important that the Basketball Dimensions and Size are appropriate for the players' level of competition.

Players are constantly dribbling, passing and shooting the ball throughout practices and games. They need to be able to handle and control the ball during these times.

In order to do this properly, they will need to play with a basketball that is the proper size, dimension and weight. The basketball dimensions vary depending on the age of the players and level of competition.

One of the biggest problems I see with younger players is that they use a regulation size high school ball. This ball is too large and heavy for younger players. When this happens, players have a difficult time handling, controlling, and shooting the ball.

The other big problem is that these players shoot on a 10' basket - which is too high for them. Put those two together, a ball that is too big and heavy and a basket that is too high, and it is difficult for the players to practice properly and improve their skill level.

The following Basketball Dimensions will help you determine the proper size ball to use for your level of competition. This information if helpful to all basketball players, parents and coaches.

Choosing the appropriate basketball will make all the difference in the players' ability to control, handle and shoot the ball. This will ultimately influence how well they will be able to improve their skills.

Subscribe to the Youth Hoops! Newsletter and get your 3 FREE SPECIAL REPORTS today!

1. The 7 Elements of Excellence

2. Weight Training For Basketball Players

3. The Art and Science of Shooting a Basketball

STAY CURRENT with the latest youth basketball tips, advice, drills and product reviews. Just fill in your email address and name below!

"For the dedicated basketball enthusiast -
Youth Hoops is an absolute MUST..."

Basketball Dimensions

High School - Boys

Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Junior High Levels.
Circumference - 29 to 30 inches.
Weight - 20 to 22 ounces.

High School - Girls

Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Junior High Levels.
Circumference - 28.5 to 29 inches.
Weight - 18 to 20 ounces.

Youth League - Boys and Girls

Ages 8 - 12 Will usually use a regulation size girls basketball. For younger players an even smaller ball can be used.
Circumference - 28.5 to 29 inches.
Weight - 18 to 20 ounces.

Important Tip: A basketball should be inflated to the proper pressure to ensure the right bounce. Typically, when a ball is dropped from a height of six feet - it should bounce up 49" to 54".

I hope you found this information on determining the proper Basketball Dimensions and Size to be helpful and informative! Using the appropriate size basketball definitely has an impact on how well a player is able to perform. Choose the right ball!

If you need more great information on this or any other basketball topics, I would suggest you purchase some good basketball books and videos. These will provide you with a wealth of knowledge about the game of basketball.

Return To Basketball Dimensions Top
Return To Home Page