Basketball Size Chart by Age: Size 5, 6, and 7 Explained
Buying the wrong ball size is one of the most common youth basketball mistakes. A ball that is too big and heavy forces bad shooting habits. Here is the full size chart by age, and why it matters.
The basketball size chart
- Size 3 (Mini) — 22": toddlers and first-time players on lowered hoops. Skills and fun only.
- Size 5 (Youth) — 27.5", ~17 oz: boys and girls ages 8 and under.
- Size 6 (Intermediate) — 28.5", ~20 oz: boys ages 9–11, and all girls and women 12 and up.
- Size 7 (Official) — 29.5", ~22 oz: boys and men ages 12 and up. NBA, NCAA men's, and boys' high school.
Why size matters for young players
Shooting form is built young. A ball that is too heavy makes a young player heave from the chest or hip just to reach the rim, baking in mechanics that are hard to fix later. A properly sized, lighter ball lets the hands and wrist do the work, so the shot develops correctly.
The one-inch difference: Size 6 vs Size 7
A Size 7 is one inch larger in circumference and about two ounces heavier than a Size 6. That gap is why women's basketball and youth boys use the 6, while men's basketball uses the 7. It is small on paper but noticeable in the hand.
Match the ball to the rim, too
Ball size pairs with rim height. A young player on a Size 5 ball usually plays on a lower rim as well — see the basketball hoop height by age chart. And pick the right material for your court in indoor vs outdoor basketballs.
For an instant answer by age and player, use the Basketball Size by Age Finder.
What size basketball for a 10-year-old?
A Size 6 (28.5in) is standard for both boys and girls around ages 9 to 11. It is lighter than the official Size 7 and helps young players shoot with proper form.
What size basketball do women use?
Girls and women use a Size 6 (28.5in) from about age 12 onward, including high school, NCAA, and the WNBA.
When do boys use a Size 7 basketball?
Boys move to the official Size 7 (29.5in) at age 12, lining up with middle school and high school play.