Are you looking for the best basketball that can be used solely indoors? Are you struggling with finding a ball and a brand that is perfect for your needs? Fear not, we are here to help you do just that.
Imagine you are playing a game of basketball, and though you know you are a good player, something seems off about your game. You are not only missing free throws, but you can’t make a layup to save your life. Later, you play basketball with a friend, instead of using your ball, you play with his new Spalding. It seems like your skills are back, and you have unlocked your true potential.
However, you soon realize it wasn’t you; it was your basketball. No matter where you purchase your prospective basketball from, they are all unique, and having the wrong basketball can negatively affect your game. Though getting a cheap basketball may be more cost-effective, if you are looking to take basketball seriously, that is the only benefit it will have. You are only as good as the materials you use.
We will not only show you the best indoor basketballs but ones that are loved by athletes and basketball players like you. We will also provide you with information on the material that basketballs are made of, which balls your favorite leagues use, and so much more. Keep reading to find out the type of ball you should be keeping on your court and why.
If you want to get back to playing basketball, get our top pick for best indoor basketballs here.
Our Favorites for the Best Indoor Basketballs
Our Favorites for the Best Indoor Basketballs
Spalding NBA Official Game Ball
If you are familiar with any basketball-related brand, the chances are high that it is Spalding. Spalding is well known for being a leading producer of basketballs as well as being the official sponsor of the NBA. Though they make several ball types, basketball is their most well known. The NBA game ball is a direct offspring of Spalding and loved by many.
What Makes it Unique:
- This Spalding NBA Official Game Ball is a pricey option that has been categorized as the gold standard of basketball. It has been around for decades and continues to be an asset to the NBA
- The ball is available in one size. It is a size seven, and it has a 29.5-inch circumference.
- The balls ships to individuals fully inflated and made of full-grain Horween leather.
Why Choose this Indoor Basketball:
- Though the NBA game ball is a bit pricey, many of the purchasers do not regret buying it. Athletes say that the ball shoots like a dream and is ready for play as soon as you open the box.
- Many buyers say that the Spalding NBA Official Game Ball gets better after every game. The ball starts slick fresh out of the box and gets broken in, the more you play.
- Many people say that this is an excellent gift for any basketball player or perfect for simply treating yourself.
- Pro minded: For over 3 decades, Spalding has joined forces with the NBA to create the gold standard basketball
- Horween leather: The full-grain leather construction turns butter-soft once broken in
- Natural grip: Wide channels that provide a great grip that feels second nature
- NBA Player’s choice: Official game ball of the NBA
- Official size: Size 7, 29.5”
Spalding TF-1000 Classic ZK
The Spalding TF-1000 Classic ZK is one of the most loved basketballs on the market. No matter who you ask or what you compare it to, this ball is always a clear winner. This is another excellent ball from the Spalding family.
What Makes it Unique:
- This composite game ball is one that can be purchased in a variety of sizes. This includes the official size 7 with a 29.5-inch circumference or in a 28.5-inch circumference.
- This ball boasts a ZK microfiber composite cover.
- This is an NFHS Approved ball with a recommended PSI of 8.0.
- This composite leather basketball is shipped fully inflated and ready for gameplay.
Why Choose this Indoor Basketball:
- Spalding TF-1000 Classic ZK is a ball that can be used indoors and outdoors. Many feel that using the ball outside helps to break it in faster.
- This is a reliable and stable basketball. Though it is not as expensive as the NBA game ball, it is not the cheapest ball on the market.
- Many athletes point out that they love it. The original TF-1000, as well as this classic ball and many others, do as well. This is evident at the rapid rate at which many say their balls are stolen. This is a highly sought after basketball.
Wilson Evolution
The Wilson Evolution game ball is the basketball of thousands of high schools across the country. It is strictly for indoor use and approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
What Makes it Unique:
- The Wilson Evolution ball is the best selling basketball with a top-rated feel. The ball has a cushion core carcass, which allows for a better overall feel.
- Channels on the ball create a consistent texture and grip for handlers. The Wilson Evolution ball also uses this technique to enhance grip.
- This basketball has a moisture-wicking composite cover, which allows for better gameplay.
Why Choose this Indoor Basketball:
- Athletes say that the construction of this ball is unmatched as it will easily outlast even the top contenders.
- The Wilson Evolution uses Cushion Core Technology. This technology combines low-density sponge rubber and ultra-durable butyl rubber. This material allows the ball to last longer and behave better.
- When you focus on getting better, and not just on getting results, success takes care of itself. That is why the Wilson Evolution Game Ball is the preferred basketball in high schools across the country.
- Signature EVO feel: the soft feel that the evolution basketball is famous for is due it’s cushion core carcass, making the ball softer to the touch and easier to grip around the rim
- Grip & durability: the premium Evo microfiber composite cover provides a grip that players love and durability to last all-season and beyond
- Ultimate control: laid-in composite channels create a consistent feel and texture over the entire surface of the basketball to provide unparalleled control
- NFHS approved: approved for play by the national federation of state high school associations (NFHS)
The Runners-Up for the Best Indoor Basketballs
The Runners-Up for the Best Indoor Basketballs
Baden Elite Indoor Game Ball
Baden Elite is another favorite for athletes around the globe. They provide an abundance of high-quality basketballs and volleyballs. These balls can even be customized and used as gifts for coaches or players.
What Makes it Unique:
- With this balanced ball, you won’t find any lumps. The microfiber cover and its symmetrical design create a ball that has exceptional grip and great bounce.
- With the Recessed Stealth Soft-Valve System, it’s air valve is virtually undetectable.
- The cushioned control technology sees fit that this ball has a long life and a soft grip.
- The Baden Elite Indoor Game Ball is available in several sizes, including 5,6 and 7.
Why Choose this Indoor Basketball:
- Many athletes consider this to be one of the best basketballs on the market. Some even say that this ball is better than the Wilson Evolution basketball.
- Some users found this ball to be significantly softer than the NBA game ball and exclaim that there is no break-in period. However, some say that the ball is tacky when first used.
- The Baden Elite Indoor Game Ball has an incredible grip and is an affordable option for players.
- ELITE - Baden’s Elite basketball with a moisture grip gives you superior ball control throughout your game, You can only achieve Perfection by designing for athletes, using the best raw materials and paying attention to every detail
- DESIGN - The Elite’s proprietary composite microfiber cover provides superior grip and tack for optimum basketball control. Its patented Cushion Control Technology (CCT) creates a softer feel, truer bounce, and longer life
- PERFECTION - The Elite’s Perfection Symmetrical design was engineered to provide a perfectly balanced ball and its smooth rounded edges ensure you won’t feel lumps or get inconsistent bounces
- ADVANTAGE - This is a basketball that you can trust from the inside out. Whether you’re putting in hours practicing your free throws, passes, or draining three’s, this ball will help you reach your full potential on the court
- AVAILABLE - Intermediate Size 6 (28.5”) and Official Size 7 (29.5”), NFHS Approved and Ships Fully inflated
Wilson NCAA Official Game Basketball
The Wilson NCAA Official Game Basketball is another favorite among athletes. This is also the official basketball used in NCAA championship games. This ball is meant for indoor use and offers excellent grip, durability, and feel.
What Makes it Unique:
- This is a great basketball that boasts a composite leather cover. The cover absorbs and abundance of perspiration and sweat. It has an aqua grip channel that still allows for great handles.
- The Wilson NCAA Official Game Basketball comes in three sizes, which include size 27.5 for youth, 28.5 for intermediate, and an official size of 29.5.
- The ball boasts a cushion core carcass, which gives it a great feel and makes it extremely durable.
Why Choose this Indoor Basketball:
- This is an excellent starter basketball for students, and it is often used as a practice ball for several high school age students.
- Some users say that this ball has a better grip than the Evolution ball.
- This is a great ball if you are looking for an affordable option for the athlete in your life. This ball holds up great in a variety of different scenarios, including PE and a variety of games.
- Official game ball of the NCAA Basketball Championships
- Moisture Absorbing Cover - Ultimate grip in playing conditions
- Laid in composite channels provide unparalleled control. Pebble composite channels
- Cushion core carcass allows a softer feel that's easier to grip and touch around the rim
- Approved for play by NCAA and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)
The Value Picks for the Best Indoor Basketballs
The Value Picks for the Best Indoor Basketballs
Molten X-Series
The Molten X-Series ball is one of the most affordable options on the list. It is perfect for indoor or outdoor use and is a ball which is highly revered by players all around. This is the official ball of the FIBA and feels like the first time even after it’s been used several times.
What Makes it Unique:
- The Molten X Series ball is perfect for indoor and outdoor play.
- The ball boasts a 12-panel design and is FIBA approved.
- The Molten X-Series ball has a butyl bladder, which is airtight and provides a fantastic sea.
- This basketball boasts a pebble-like surface, which provides an enhanced grip for increased handles.
Why Choose this Indoor Basketball:
- This Molten X-Series ball is meant to withstand any type of surface. It has incredible bounce and moisture retention.
- With this ball, there is no air leakage. It holds air tightly and is fun to dribble and shoot.
- FIBA Approved
- Indoor/ Outdoor Synthetic Cover
- Butyl Bladder
- Signature 12 Panel Design
- 1- Year Warranty
FAQ on Indoor Basketballs
What are the Most Common Materials of Indoor Basketballs? Composite vs. Rubber vs. Leather
When looking into finding the perfect basketball, considering the material is extremely important. Common materials for indoor basketballs include leather and rubber. If you have a ball covered in synthetic leather, it would be for outdoor, not indoor, gameplay. Microfiber Composite is another synthetic material that is more cost-effective to produce but can be used on indoor courts.
There has been considerable debate surrounding which balls perform better on indoor surfaces.
In 2006 a composite ball was introduced into the NBA. Though the synthetic ball was supposed to bring many benefits to the league, as well as being the ball of the future and cheaper to produce, it brought no such thing. Once launched, some players immediately began to complain about the new ball. In comparison to the leather ball, it didn’t bounce as well; it was slippery; some say it felt like plastic and even was causing cuts on the player’s hands.
After much testing, the leather ball was brought back midway through the season. Though the balls seem to perform identically when dry, the same could not be said when they got wet.
If you are looking for a great ball and are ready to shell out some coin, a leather ball is the way to go. However, this ball can only be used on indoor surfaces. This ball does have a break-in period. Though it may feel weird when you get it, breaking it in will have it feeling great in no time.
If you’re looking at the leather ball but simply can’t afford to pay what it costs, a composite ball may be the way to go. Though it feels like leather, its price will reinforce that it is not. Composite balls are excellent for indoor and outdoor play. They don’t require break-in time. Though they won’t wear out as quickly, they do have flaws. However, if having the real thing isn’t as relevant to you, this is your ideal ball.
Rubber basketballs are cheap. If you are looking for balls that are good for blacktops or playgrounds, these are it. They are not ideal if you are looking to take the game seriously. With these balls, you get what you pay for.
How Long do Indoor Basketballs Last?
An indoor basketball can have a long life depending on how often it is used and how it is cared for. To ensure your basketball has the longest like possible, it is best to do things like ensuring it is not over-inflated, not using it on an outdoor surface, and keeping it in a cool, dry place. If it is adequately taken care of, your basketball can last between four to five years.
What Basketballs Do the NBA Use?
As listed above, the official ball used is made by the NBA’s official partner, Spaulding. Its official name is the Spalding NBA Official Game Ball. The ball can be purchased directly from Spaulding or even on Amazon.
What Size Ball do NBA Players Use?
An official NBA basketball is 29.5 inches in circumference. This is the same size that men’s indoor basketball and high school basketball utilize.
What’s the Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Basketballs?
The main difference between indoor and outdoor basketball is the material each one is made of. Indoor basketballs are generally made of full-grain leather. Another issue which many athletes complain about is ball flexibility. Outdoor basketballs are designed to play well on rugged and hard surfaces. Indoor basketballs used outside will tend to feel flat. The outdoor terrain will also terribly scuff your indoor ball.
Being that the material is a significant difference in the two basketballs, the cost will also provide a start difference. Good leather balls can retail for over a hundred dollars, whereas an excellent outdoor ball can be purchased for a large fraction of that amount.
Can Indoor Basketballs be Used Outside?
Fortunately, this is an easy question to answer, and the answer is simple. No, you should not use an indoor ball to play outside. If you do use your indoor ball outside, it will likely destroy the leather on your ball’s surface. Pavement, blacktops, and general outdoor pavement will cause your ball to become scuffed or scratched. It will quickly wear out the surface of your ball. However, you can use an outdoor ball on inside flooring. If you’re looking for the best outdoor basketballs, read our guide here.
What are the Best Genuine Leather Basketballs?
Having a genuine leather basketball is a luxury, and when you are looking for the best options, there are quite a few to choose from. The two listed below will provide you with some of the best options.
How to Choose the Best Indoor Basketball for You
Though everyone may want to hoop like an NBA player, that may not always be possible. Chances are if you’re reading this either you are not fond of the NBA game ball, you are simply not fond of its pricing, or it’s just not a good fit. No matter which category you fall under, there is undoubtedly a basketball out there for you.
Before making a rash decision, it’s essential to do your research and recognize what type of ball you are looking for. Ask yourself the questions below before purchasing a ball to narrow down exactly what you need.
How much am I willing to spend?
Cost is another critical factor in determining which basketball is perfect for you. If you are only looking to spend fifty bucks, chances are pretty high that you wouldn’t be looking to purchase the NBA game ball.
Will this basketball be used primarily indoors or outdoors?
When determining which basketball is for you, the terrain it will be used on is a critical factor. This will also determine the material that your ball should not be made of. For example, you should not buy a genuine leather ball and use it on outdoor surfaces or blacktop. It will not have optimal performance.
What size ball do I need?
Basketballs come in a variety of sizes. The official size of an NBA ball is 29.5 inches and a size 7. The WNBA uses a smaller ball, which is 28.5 inches in circumference, this is a size 6. Basketballs also have a size 27.5, known as a size 5.
What material would I like my ball to be made of?
The material your ball is should be is dependent on the setting you plan to use it on. Each material has different pros and cons. It will depend on you to decide which material better fits your needs.
Summary of the Best Indoor Basketballs
We’ve gone over a lot today. Here’s a helpful table to consolidate every indoor basketball we went over:
There are several options to choose from when looking for the perfect basketball. This can be an NBA ball, a cheaply made basketball, or a composite material ball. Selecting the wrong ball can negatively affect your game as well as hinder the time spent practicing.
In this article, we not only provide you with the best indoor basketballs, but we also provided you with information from several basketball reviews from athletes just like you and greater. You can use this information and your judgment to choose the perfect ball for you.
Basketballs can be expensive; therefore, if you don’t see a ball on this list that fits your price point or your needs, no sweat, there are several more out there. Use the questions provided to you to assess any basketball you find.
Basketballs like the Spalding TF-1000 Classic are favorites among athletes of all levels. Another option players also choose the Wilson Evolution basketball or the NBA game ball. All three of these are crowd favorites among athletes. However, no matter which ball you choose, make sure it’s perfect for you. Happy hooping!
If you’re looking for basketballs that can be used for both indoor and outdoor, then be sure to check out our reviews on the best indoor out basketballs here.
Have you ever wondered if you can bring a basketball on the plane? We answer that question in this article.
More basketball and basketball hoop reviews here:
> The Best Spalding Basketballs
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