How to Find and Fix a Hole in a Basketball
Whether you are using an indoor or outdoor basketball, you will likely run into the issue of a leaking basketball. A leaking basketball, quite simply, is a basketball that has a small hole in it from which air escapes. This is, obviously, not an ideal situation and one that needs to be mitigated quickly so that you can get back to playing.
Below, we are going to show you both how to find and fix a hole in a basketball. These are quick, easy solutions that should have you back on the court in no time.
How to Find a Hole or Leak on a Basketball
Due to the shape and strength of most basketballs, it can be difficult to simply squeeze and listen for the hole in the ball. Rather, the simplest and best way to find a hole or leak in a basketball is to submerge the basketball in water.
Once the basketball has been submerged, look for where air bubbles are exiting and coalescing from the ball. This will be the telltale sign of where the hole is and will help isolate where the fix must happen.
After the hole has been identified, you should dry off the basketball and use a pen or sharpie to make a small circle over the hole. This is done to indicate where the hole is and so that you do not lose its spot.
How to Fix a Hole in a Basketball
Once you have identified where the hole is on the basketball, there are a few steps you can take to rectify. The first, and perhaps easiest, is to take a dull knife and run it over an open, hot flame. Carefully allowing the top of the knife to heat, place it over the hole on the basketball.
As the knife is on the basketball, slowly, gently, and carefully move it over the hole. Allow the basketball material to melt, ever so gently, over the hole. Once finished, place the basketball to the side and allow it to cool for five-minutes.
Before resuming play, grab a basketball pump and re-pump the basketball to an ideal level.
Another option for fixing and repairing a hole or leak in a basketball is to simply purchase a ball repair sealant with syringe. These sealants are able to fix just about any hole or leak and are typically a quick, easy, and inexpensive fix.
Lastly, if the valve itself is broken or leaking, then we have a simple and easy solution for you!
Simply insert a wet needle into the valve and pump the ball a handful of times. This is done to clean out the valve and ensure no obstructions. From there, simply enter a toothpick into the valve. Leaving about one-third of the tooth pick visible, break off the top of the tooth pick, leaving the valve closed and secure.