What Equipment is Needed For Basketball?

Basketball, perhaps more then any other sport, does not require too many pieces of equipment to get the game started. Admittedly, with just a basketball and a basketball hoop, nearly anyone can get a game started.

However, if you want to be prepared for the start of a game, and get to the court more prepared, then bringing along more then just a basketball with you would be a wise idea. That’s why, below, we are going to review just what equipment is needed for basketball.

From an actual basketball to protective eyewear, this is the full list of basketball equipment to better help you be prepared for once you do make it on the court. In addition, by bringing along these pieces of equipment, you’ll likely have a more enjoyable and fun time on the court!

A Basketball

No basketball game can begin without a basketball.  Typically, for a regulation game, the basketball will be made of leather and for the NBA, the manufacturer will be Spalding.  In addition, in the NBA, the pressure of the ball must be between 7.5 and 8.5 pounds per square inch.

The size of the ball should measure 29.5” around in circumference.

Personally, we highly recommend the Wilson Evolution Game Basketball. The premium EVO microfiber composite cover provides superior grip that players across all leagues have come to love and rely on.  The durability on these basketballs is amazing and these basketballs will last you for years to come and will definitely be your go-to basketball for professional and recreational play.

Basketball Pump

While not necessary, it is useful to bring along a basketball pump in the event that the ball needs to be pumped with air. We highly recommend an electric ball pump, which we’ve found to be more durable and long-lasting. In addition, an electric ball pump utilizes a built-in digital pressure gauge and LED display to ensure perfect inflation every time.

Basketball Shoes

As important to a basketball player as the actual basketball itself, basketball shoes are highly recommended when playing the sport.  If you are looking to play basketball, it is absolutely critical that you wear proper basketball shoes.  The basketball shoes should fit snugly and should leave little room for the foot in the shoe.

Basketball shoes are important as they have excellent cushioning which helps with impact when a player jumps.   In addition, basketball shoes have ample support for a player’s ankle which can help to avoid an ankle, knee, and foot injury.

Acceptable Basketball Attire

If you are playing in a regulation basketball league, you will likely be provided with a basketball uniform to wear on the court during play. However, if you are simply shooting around or playing in a pick-up game, then wearing basketball appropriate attire is highly recommended.

However, one of the great aspects about basketball is that the attire can vary from person-to-person and individual. Whereas, in football, attire and uniforms are very specific, in basketball, a simple pair of shorts and a cotton t-shirt can suffice.

However, if you are looking for recommendations, then we highly recommend the Nike Dri-FIT Icon shorts. Coming in a variety of colors, these shorts utilize the Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and sweat-free.

In the same vein, we also highly recommend the Nike Dry Tee. Utilizing similar technology as the Dri-FIT, the shirt provides breathable fabric and materials while wicking sweat and moisture away.

Basketball Headband

When it comes to wearing a headband, it is a completely optional and personal preference.  Some players prefer to wear a headband as it helps to collect and absorb the sweat from the upper brow while other players find the use of a headband unnecessary and irritating.

Basketball Compression Sleeve

Similar to the headband, a compression sleeve is left to the discretion of the player.  Wearing a compression sleeve has been shown to help reduce swelling, it can increase blood flow, and also reduces fatigue. However, some players find compression sleeves to be distracting and difficult to shoot with.

Sports Drink and Water

Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, probably the most important thing to bring to a game is a bottle of water and a bottle of your favorite sports drink.  Whether it is Gatorade, Powerade, or Body Armor, having both a bottle of water and a bottle of a sports drink will help you to remain hydrated and to replenish electrolytes lost during play.

Bags and a Backpack

Another piece of basketball equipment that you should be bringing to both a game and practice is a practical, semi-large bag or backpack.  This bag should be large enough to hold all your gear, your drinks, and any other equipment and facilities you may choose to bring.