What Is the Standard Size of Basketball Ball? Full Size Guide

Using the wrong basketball size is one of the quickest ways to ruin a player's shooting form and confidence. So, what is the standard size of basketball ball? The answer changes depending on who's playing. Using a ball that's too heavy for a child forces them to "heave" the ball with their whole body. This creates bad habits that take years to unlearn. We've put together this basketball size guide to help you find the perfect fit for your age, gender, and league.

Key Takeaways: 

• Choosing the right ball size is vital because using one that's too heavy forces you to "heave" the shot, which ruins your natural shooting form and technique.
• Adult men use a Size 7 basketball. Adult women use a Size 6. Junior players need to scale down to Sizes 5, 4, or 3 based on their age and league rules.
• For best results, match your ball material to your court surface. Choose a durable rubber for concrete driveways and high-grip composite for indoor club play.

What Is the Standard Size of Basketball Ball?

The short answer is that there isn't just one standard. For adult men's professional and amateur competitions, the standard size of a basketball ball is Size 7. This ball has a circumference of roughly 75cm and weighs about 620 grams. It's designed for larger hands and higher physical strength.

For women's professional and senior competitions, the standard basketball size is Size 6. While it looks similar, it's about 2.5cm smaller in circumference and significantly lighter. This allows for better ball control and shooting mechanics without sacrificing the fast-paced nature of the game. Junior players use even smaller balls, which we'll break down below.

Basketball Size Chart by Age, Gender, and Level

Need to know each size basketball ball for specific age groups? This chart has the answers. While some local associations have slight variations, these are the universal standards used across Australia.

What Is the Normal Size of Basketball Ball?

When people ask what the normal size of a basketball ball is, they're usually looking for the ball they see on TV. In a professional men's context, "normal" is a Size 7. If you're heading to a local park for a pick-up game with mates, a Size 7 is almost always the default choice.

However, "normal" is relative to the player. For a primary school PE teacher, a Size 5 is the normal size of a basketball ball because it's what the students can actually handle. Always match the ball to the player's physical development rather than what the pros are using.

What Size Is a Basketball Ball for Different Competitions?

Competitions are strict about ball sizes to ensure fairness and consistent skill development. If you show up to a senior women's match with a Size 7, the weight difference will throw off everyone's shooting percentages.

We always recommend checking local competition rules. While these are the standard guidelines, some regional associations might have unique age brackets for ball transitions.

Indoor vs Outdoor Basketballs: Does Size Change?

A common question we get is whether an outdoor ball is a different size than an indoor one. The answer is no. A Size 7 indoor ball has the same dimensions as a Size 7 outdoor ball. The difference is entirely in the material.

Indoor balls are usually made of genuine leather or high-end composite leather. They're soft and provide incredible grip but will be ruined quickly by concrete or asphalt. Outdoor balls are made of durable rubber or specialized composite materials that can handle the grit of a backyard court. Picking the right surface type is just as important as the size for performance and durability.

How to Choose the Right Basketball Size for Your Child

Choosing a ball for a child is a balance between their current age and their skill level. Here is a simple framework to get it right.

• Step 1: Check their age and league. Most Australian junior associations will specify the ball size on their registration forms. Always start there.
• Step 2: Don't buy a ball to "grow into." A common mistake is giving a 10-year-old a Size 7 ball. Because the ball is too heavy, the child will develop a "shot-put" style shot, pushing the ball from their chest instead of using a proper high release.
• Step 3: Test the grip. If the child can't comfortably wrap their hand around a significant portion of the ball, they'll struggle with dribbling and passing. If you see them losing the ball frequently while dribbling, it's a sign the ball is too large.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Basketball Ball

We see three mistakes happen more than any others. First is ignoring the gender difference in adult sizes. Many people assume all adults play with the same ball, but the Size 6 is specifically designed to suit the average hand size of female players.

Second is choosing based solely on price. A cheap, oversized ball can actually hurt a young player's hands or wrists if they aren't physically ready for the weight. Third is using a "novelty" ball for serious practice. Brightly colored or glow-in-the-dark balls are fun, but they often lack the standard weight and grip required for proper training.

Summit Sport Basketball Range: Find Your Correct Size

Now that you know the right size basketball ball for you, it's time to find a ball that lasts. Summit Sport stocks a full range of basketballs from Size 3 all the way up to the Size 7 basketball standard.

Whether you're looking for a durable rubber ball for the driveway or a high-performance composite ball for club games, we have options for every level. Our balls are designed to meet the rigorous standards of Australian schools and clubs, ensuring consistent bounce and grip session after session.

Where to Buy the Best Basketballs in Australia

Finding out what is the standard size of a basketball ball is the first step toward better play. For men, it's Size 7. For women, it's Size 6. For everyone else, it depends on their age and stage of development. Using this basketball size guide ensures that every time you or your kids step onto the court, the focus is on skill and fun, not struggling with the wrong equipment.

The right ball makes the game easier to learn and much safer for developing joints. Check out the Summit Sport basketball range today to find the perfect match for your next game.