Basketball Size Finder

What size basketball do you actually need?

Pick an age and player, and get the right ball — Size 5, 6, or 7 — with its circumference, weight, and where it is used. Stop buying a full-size ball for a young player who needs a lighter one.

Size 5 · 27.5" Size 6 · 28.5" Size 7 · 29.5"

Why size matters

The wrong ball size teaches bad shooting habits. A lighter, smaller ball lets young hands shoot with real form; the official ball comes later.

Find the size

Two quick steps.

1. Age & player 2. Result

Step 1

Choose the age band, then the player

U8 Ages 8 & under Early skills, lowered hoops, small hands. 9–11 Ages 9–11 Youth leagues moving toward a 10-foot rim. 12+ Ages 12 & up Middle school, high school, and adult play.

Full chart

Step 2

Confirm and shop

Age Player

Size preview

Pick an age and player to see the exact ball size.

You will get the size number, circumference, weight, and where it is used.

Basketball size chart

Size	Circumference	Who uses it	Leagues
Size 3 (Mini)	22"	Toddlers / first-time players (optional)	Practice & skills only
Size 5 (Youth)	27.5"	Boys & girls ages 8 and under	Youth / mini leagues
Size 6 (Intermediate)	28.5"	Boys 9–11; all girls & women 12+	Youth boys, WNBA, NCAA & HS girls
Size 7 (Official)	29.5"	Boys & men ages 12 and up	NBA, NCAA & HS boys

What size basketball for a 10-year-old?

A Size 6 (28.5") is standard for both boys and girls around ages 9–11. It is lighter and smaller than the official Size 7, which helps young players shoot with proper form and avoid bad habits.

What is the difference between a Size 6 and Size 7 basketball?

A Size 7 is the official men's ball at 29.5" and about 22 oz. A Size 6 is the intermediate/women's ball at 28.5" and about 20 oz — one inch smaller and roughly two ounces lighter.

What size ball do girls and women use?

Girls and women use a Size 6 (28.5") from about age 12 onward. That includes high school, NCAA, and the WNBA. Younger girls use a Size 5.

When should a boy move up to a Size 7 basketball?

Boys typically move to the official Size 7 (29.5") at age 12, which lines up with middle school and high school play. Before that, a Size 6 (ages 9–11) or Size 5 (8 and under) is the right fit.

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