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Best Indoor Basketball – Official Basketballs Reviews [2024]

Last Updated March 18, 2024 Last Updated February 22, 2024 by Brian Aquino

Playing basketball on indoor courts is great fun but choosing the best indoor basketball is a difficult and boring task.  Some of the basketballs perform really well, and a few feel amazing but the overall performance isn’t great. Therefore, I have mentioned tested reviews of top rated indoor basketballs of 2024 in this article, pick yours and start shooting the hoops.

Indoor basketballs are designed to use on hardwood, therefore they feel much comfortable due to the softer material. On the other hand, outdoor basketballs feel a bit harder because of the strong material to provide lasting durability. The below-mentioned basketballs are good for hardwood courts.

Remember not to use an indoor basketball on outside courts, it will not hold up on the asphalt surface.

best indoor basketball

 

Best Indoor Basketball – 11 Top Rated Basketballs for Hardwood Courts

Here is a list of the top indoor basketballs with their qualities and prices; these genuine leather and composite balls are the highest rated for indoor courts in 2024.

No.BasketballQualityPrice
1Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor BasketballSuperior Basketball for Indoor and Outdoor
2Wilson Evolution Game BasketballBest Performance Indoor Basketball
3Baden Elite Indoor Game BasketballSolid Grip Basketball
4Wilson Evo NXTLightweight Basketball
5Nike Elite Championship Official BasketballSoft Touch Indoor Basketball
6Wilson NCAA Official Game BasketballBest Basketball for Indoors
7The Rock Indoor BasketballBest Value for the Money
8Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor BasketballGreat Basketball for All-Surface Performance
9Molten BG3800 Series FIBA ApprovedBest for Indoor Outdoor Games
10WILSON NCAA Indoor/Outdoor BasketballBest Seller Classic Basketball
11WILSON NBA Authentic Series BasketballsBasketball for Outdoor Driveway Play
Top Picked

 

Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball

best spalding basketball

  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor basketball play
  • Made of high-quality faux leather

 

Wilson Evolution

Wilson Evolution Basketball

  • Moisture-wicking
  • Evo Microfiber Cover
  • NCA & NHFS Approved

 

The Rock

rock indoor basketball

  • Holds Air-pressure
  • Approved by NHFS
  • Responsive Bounce

 

 

1. Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball

“Superior Basketball for Indoor and Outdoor”Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball

The Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is perfect for anyone who loves the game. It is made with a Zi/O Tournament composite cover for superior playability indoors or outdoors. The ball is shipped inflated and play-ready, so you can feel confident using the correct equipment. With its orange color, this ball will be easy to see during any match.

The Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is a fantastic choice for any skill level, from beginner to advanced. Its durable construction will make it last for many years of playing. Whether you use it at home, in tournaments, or just for fun with friends and family, this ball will help you have a fantastic time!

Key Features:

  • Available in official size 7, which measures 29.5 inches in diameter and weighs 0.82 kgs, perfect choice for indoor or outdoor competition play or everyday use.
  • They are designed with a tournament composite cover, making them incredibly durable and able to withstand even the most demanding games.
  • It is shipped-inflated and game ready—no need to waste time inflating your ball before you get out on the court!
  • This basketball is designed for outdoor use, meaning it’s perfect for all types of weather conditions, whether rain or shine.
  • High grip surface so you can control the ball during play.
  • Backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, you can trust it will last for seasons.

 

Pros
  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor basketball play.
  • Made of high-quality faux leather
  • No need to spend time inflating the ball before playing with it
  • It comes with a 1-year manufacturer warranty for added peace of mind
  • Great value for money compared to other models on the market
Cons
  • It can wear out quickly if it's used heavily and not stored correctly when not in use

Expert’s Opinion:

The Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a durable and dependable basketball that looks great too. Its exceptional build quality ensures maximum performance every time, ensuring you can enjoy your game to the fullest every time. With its affordable price point, superior construction, sophisticated design, and versatile capabilities, this basketball will surely provide you with hours of enjoyment no matter where you play!

Learn the comprehensive details and powerful features of Spalding Zi/O TF Indoor-Outdoor Basketball.

 

2. Wilson Evolution Game Basketball

"Best Performance Indoor Basketball"best indoor basketball

The Wilson Evolution basketball is the most used in high-school plays. Due to its extreme popularity, it is one of the most purchased basketballs in the United States. Also, the ball is approved by the NCAA and NFHS and the most used ball in both of the tournaments. The softer and nicer feel of Wilson evolution makes it the top choice for indoor basketball games.

Best of all, the deep channel design and hundreds of micro-touch points offer a better grip. Moreover, the moisture-wicking channels dry out the sweat while playing. As a result, you have proper control while dribbling, dodging, and shooting goals in the hoop perfectly. It feels like a dream to dribble with a comfortable feel and consistent bounce rate.

 

Key Features:

  • Core Cushioning offers a comfortable grip and ball handling
  • Moisture-wicking technology absorbs the sweat of your hand
  • Highly durable composite leather helps it to last long
  • Evo Microfiber composite cover provides a nice grip that every basketball player dreams for
  • The entire surface is textured to provide unparalleled control
  • The core of the ball is made of combined low-density sponge rubber along with butyl rubber
  • Proper air pressure for consistent bounce and ideal handling is from 7 to 9 psi

 

Pros
  • Pebbled laid-in channels for extreme grip
  • Approved and used by NCA and NFHS
  • It holds the air pressure perfectly for a long duration
  • Available in three different sizes - Official 29.5 inches, Intermediate 28.5 inches, and Youth 27.5 inches
  • Great value for the money
Cons
  • Panels may start peeling off after a while
  • I noticed that it lost air over-aggressive plays

Expert's Opinion:

Indeed Evolution basketball is the most popular and used ball for high-school and training academy games. In my own experience, I have found the ball quite soft and extremely easy to grip. I shoot a couple of goals in the hoop and experience the joy of using top-rated indoor basketball.

So, if you are looking for the best indoor basketball, Wilson Evolution is recommended without any doubt.

Read a complete overview and detailed features of Wilson Evolution Basketball.

 

3. Baden Elite Indoor Game Basketball

"Solid Grip Basketball"baden elite

When we talk about basketball manufacturers, the top names come to mind such as Spalding, Wilson, and Molten. However, Baden has produced Baden Elite Game Ball which is a good indoor basketball. Indeed, this ball does worth considering due to its slightly heavier weight and the best suited to practice advanced skills.

The Baden Elite is a top-rated basketball due to its sharp and consistent bounce. Moreover, it feels extremely nice to the palm just like the Wilson Evolution ball. In particular, there is no match when it comes to grip, moist-absorbing features allow players to control and shoot the goal. Also, the long-lasting tack stays consistent right from the beginning.

 

Key Features:

  • Moisture absorbing quality keeps the ball dry
  • Top of the line ball, Premium materials make the Elite Basketball the king of the court
  • Especially designed for professional players to practice dribbling and shooting basketball drills
  • Patented Cushion Control Technology (CCT) ensures responsive and consistent bounce
  • Stealth Soft-Valve System (SSS) reduces exposed rubber from the valve stem and softens the entire valve panel
  • Approved by the NFHS and is the official basketball of many leagues across America

 

Pros
  • It keeps the air-pressure over-aggressive plays due to quality bladder underlying the soft composite leather cover
  • Rubber channels are in-line and wider than other indoor basketballs
  • Extremely durable and stays relatively new even after years of practice
  • Available in two sizes Official 29.5 inch and Intermediate 28.5 inches, it is suitable for men and women basketball game
Cons
  • It feels quite sticky in the beginning
  • Not suitable for youngsters

Expert's Opinion:

I am sure you haven't heard good remarks about Baden basketballs but believe me, Baden Elite Game Ball is great indoor basketball. The manufacturer claims to spend around 30 years to make this ball perfect. Indeed, it is a great choice for professionals to practice dribbling, fast crossover and ankle break drills.

Read a complete overview and detailed features of Baden Elite Basketball.

 

4. Wilson Evo NXT

"Lightweight Basketball"good indoor basketball

This basketball is getting very popular amongst professionals due to its moisture management technology. The manufacturer promotes this ball as a cross of Evolution and Solution. With a combination of durability and moisture-wicking ability, the ball feels exceptionally soft and provides a solid grip.

No wonder why the ball offers a soft feel, the micro-touch cover with a super soft core helps easy handling and shooting. The super soft core cushioning provides consistent softness on indoor hardwood surfaces.

 

Key Features:

  • The Wilson Evo NXT is manufactured with 100% composite leather, consistent texture superior control
  • The ball comes in electric orange color, easy to track its movements in the court
  • Its cushioning allows players to push fingers deeper into the surface for solid control without compromising on a softer feel. It helps in finding the shooter’s touch
  • The core construction perfectly balances the weight of the basketball for long shots
  • Wilson introduced an advanced Micro-Touch Cover with an extra thin layer of texture on the cover for better grip
  • The wicking technology reduces sweat moisture from the surface to provide consistent grip throughout the play

 

Pros
  • The ball is game-ready as it comes, requires no break-in
  • Vibrant and easy to locate its movements
  • Wider laid-in channels similar to Evolution
  • High-quality soft-touch doesn’t feel laminated at all
  • Moisture-wicking system
Cons
  • Some of the buyers complained that the ball is overpriced
  • The appearance seem rubbery, too bright

 

Expert’s Opinion:

Wilson EVO NXT is the top choice if you are looking for a soft feel basketball. However, the ball weighs a bit lighter than other official league basketballs. Hence, if you are planning to train for leagues, I wouldn’t recommend training with this ball.

 

5. Nike Elite Championship Official Basketball

"Soft Touch Indoor Basketball"soft indoor basketball

Nike never disappoints with quality and always manufactures great products for basketball players. This official size (29.5”) Elite Championship basketball is approved by NFHS for high school basketball. Around 250 colleges use this Nike basketball in their sports programs.

What we like about this ball is the micro-perforated material that stops the sweat from collecting on the surface. As a result, the ball stays dry, provides ultra-soft touch and offers better grip throughout the game.

 

Key Features:

  • Constructed with game-dry composite leather, 55% rubber and 45% synthetic leather
  • Micro-perforated material offers a dry solid grip
  • Ultra-soft feel for a premium performance
  • 8-panels wide channels help with quicker hand alignment and proper control on the ball, perfect for shooters
  • Leak-proof butyl bladder ensures the optimum air pressure, consistent bounce and keeps the ball in shape for long

 

Pros
  • Good indoor basketball for hardwood courts
  • Suitable for basketball shooters
  • Approved by NFHS
  • Available in the Official size – 29.5 inches
  • Premium touch soft basketball
Cons
  • Some users received the ball deflated
  • The ball seems hard when over-inflated

Expert’s Opinion:

The Nike Elite Championship Basketball is one of the best basketballs for indoors with a soft grip and easy handling. We experienced perfect shooting alignment even from a distance. Best of all, the ball bounces as you expect and ideal for aggressive dribbles and ankle-break shots.

 

6. Wilson NCAA Official Game Basketball

"Best Basketball for Indoors"best basketball for indoors

It’s true that Wilson has raised the basketball standards for performance with the innovations in the Wilson NCAA official basketball. It is one of the most favorite indoor basketballs among rookies and professionals. The ball has received the most rating of the performance due to exceptional grip, and it is because of the moisture-absorbing cover.

After multiple plays on different courts, we found this ball has the ideal bounce, the perfect weight, optimum grip and proven durability. Usually, moisture-wicking basketballs cost a fortune. However, Wilson made this ball with high-quality material and you will not pay a massive price. Play with the Wilson NCAA official game basketball and the ball will no longer roll in your hand.

 

Key Features:

  • The cover is made with the best quality moisture-absorbing composite leather for ultimate grip in sweaty conditions
  • Aqua-grip laid in pebbled channels provide supreme control over the ball
  • Cushion Core Carcass technology makes the ball easier to grip
  • Exceptionally soft feel due to low-density sponge rubber and ultra-durable butyl rubber
  • Never flat due to internal air retention technology – ideal inflation level: 7 -9 PSI
  • Microfiber channels provide optimum bounce throughout the game

 

Pros
  • Approved by NCAA and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)
  • Comes in the official size 7 – 29.5”
  • Comfortable basketball while handling hard throws
  • Good moisture-absorbing basketball
  • Superior grip
Cons
  • The ball feels a bit gluey in the beginning
  • Some users complaint that ball feels a bit smaller

Expert’s Opinion:

A sweaty hand is one of the main reasons for poor performance. Obviously, if you do not have a solid grip on the ball, throws will not be accurate. Hats off to Wilson, this ball has moisture absorbing cover that provides unparalleled grip while dribbling and shooting. John Nato says, “I’m a distance hooper and Wilson NCAA official basketball never disappointed – always found it reaching the point where I expected it to”.

 

7. The Rock Indoor Basketball

"Best Value for the Money"the rock

You might have never heard of the Rock basketball as I did, but it is an incredible indoor ball and highly praised and approved by NFHS. The ball is produced by a non-famous private manufacturing company "Anaconda Sports". Believe me; The Rock basketball does not perform less than a myth.

In case you might be asking yourself that I have never seen this ball, the ball is surprisingly good and performs amazingly on indoor courts. In addition, I have found new users of this basketball liking it immediately after hooping a few goals with it. Indeed the rock basketball is used for most American indoor basketball games.

 

Key Features:

  • The ball comes in official size 29.5 inches and approved by NFHS
  • It holds the air pressure even on aggressive plays
  • Best of all, the grip is the distinguishing quality of the rock
  • In addition, pebbled channels provide consistent grip all-over
  • Ideal responsive bounce and it does not feel too flat or too bouncy
  • The wide pebbled channels are made of composite leather instead of rubber
  • Super tacky and sweat absorbent to offer better control

 

Pros
  • Affordable basketball and best value for the money
  • Extensive channels provide a solid grip
  • Certificate of authenticity
  • The ball is available in official size 29.5 inches
  • It absorbs the moisture of the palms
  • Made of extremely durable composite leather
Cons
  • It does not feel as soft as the Wilson Evolution
  • The ball is not available in under-sizes like youth or intermediate

Expert's Opinion:

If you are looking for a good indoor basketball that has optimum grip and tacky feel, indeed the rock basketball is a top choice. Therefore I recommend you to try this non-famous basketball designed by John Stote. Certainly, it draws the attention of other basketball players in the indoor courts. In particular, Rock basketball performs great on hardwood courts.

Amazon User Review:

One of the Rock basketball buyers from Amazon "Robbyho" says, "The Rock has a cushion, almost spongy feel with deep channels. This gives it a very secure feel in your hands. That I think is what really separates The Rock from other balls, that when you hold it, there is no feeling of it slipping loose.

When you catch it, you can go up with your shot without having to readjust because the ball slides in your hands. It doesn't get overly slick or retain moisture. Certainly, it stays dryer than an Evo, similar to the Baden Element. The Rock is great overall and I would not hesitate to buy more of them when the time comes".

Read a complete overview and detailed features of The Rock Basketball.

 

8. Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball

“Great Basketball for All-Surface Performance”Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball

The Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is perfect for anyone who wants a ball they can rely on. The grip is excellent, providing total control no matter what surface you're playing on. The all-surface performance composite cover means you can take this ball anywhere and be assured of a good game. It's also official size seven and ships inflated, so it's ready to play right out of the box. With the Spalding React TF-250, you can ensure that your game is always on point. Get it today and take your game up a notch!

Key Features:

  • Its durable composite leather construction makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor use, giving you more versatility with your sport.
  • A complete nylon winding system that provides added support and strength and expands the life of the ball.
  • Spalding’s proprietary cushion core technology is designed to provide superior rebound energy and excellent control over your shots during the game.
  • You can be sure it meets the standards of NFHS for playability and performance.
  • The HD grip is designed to provide maximum control over the ball, no matter the conditions.
  • It has an easy color-coded sizing system that makes it easier to pick the size best fits your needs.

 

Pros
  • With an iconic surface
  • Features a performance composite cover
  • It has a great design and color
  • Consistent bounces regardless of the playing surface or temperature outside
  • A one-year manufacturer warranty backs it
Cons
  • Some users have reported that the ball was slightly heavier than expected
  • The leather sections may peel off quickly due to being separate pieces

Expert's Opinion:

The Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball is an excellent choice for aspiring players looking to improve their skills or even just have fun playing intense pickup games. Not only will it provide superb performance and durability, but its affordable price also makes it a worthy investment that won't break your wallet.

Discover a comprehensive overview and extraordinary features of Spalding React TF-250 Indoor-Outdoor Basketball.

 

9. Molten BG3800 Series FIBA Approved

"Best for Indoor Outdoor Games"best indoor outdoor basketball

Molten introduced new BG-Series basketball with an improved two-toned design. The Molten BG3800 basketball is showcased as the Official game ball of the FIBA Basketball World Cups and valid through 2024. The ball feels completely different than its previous model due to the textured leather finish. Molten eliminated the traditional pebbled design with inlaid pebbled to improve the grip of the ball.

We experienced super quality grip due to the latest innovative technology. The surface offers good control over the ball even when your palms are sweaty or moistened. We would recommend beginners to practice with Molten BG3800 basketball on indoor courts to compete for championships.

 

Key Features:

  • Good quality soft synthetic leather cover – looks premium
  • Increased surface area for improved grip on the basketball
  • Moisture-wicking surface to ensure maximum grip and control
  • 2-tones design with Official 12 laid-in panels
  • Superior quality Butyl bladder to hold the air pressure to provide optimum bounce throughout the game
  • The new color combination of infill panels for improved visibility, easy to track ball’s movement in the court
  • Available in Official size 7, and size 6

 

Pros
  • Good basketball for indoor outdoor games
  • Great value for the money
  • Premium leather look and feel of the outer cover
  • Improved grip and control
  • Superior quality material
  • FIBA Approved
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
  • The ball requires break-in time to perform well
  • Make sure of the size before ordering

Expert’s Opinion:

Without a second thought, this is a great basketball for beginners and for intermediates to practice for tournament games. The FIBA approved Official game ball is available at $30, an awesome deal to avail. We have found BG3800 better in terms of grip and control while dribbling and bank shots. Also, it performed accurately for long bounce passes.

Here are the reasons why you should get a basketball hoop.

 

10. WILSON NCAA Indoor/Outdoor Basketball

"Best Seller Classic Basketball"WILSON NCAA Indoor/Outdoor Basketball

WILSON NCAA Indoor/Outdoor Basketballs are perfect for any level of player. They have a premium core construction that provides consistent rebound and a soft feel in every game. The ball is designed to dominate both indoors and outdoors. With its total cover pebbling, you'll better control your handles.

Select from size 5 (27.5"), size 6 (28.5"), or size 7 (29.5"). You can also choose from several colors and styles, such as Final Four, Jet Pro, Legend, Limited, or the Final Four. These basketballs are officially licensed with the NCAA logo displayed on them. Get your WILSON NCAA Indoor/Outdoor Basketballs today and discover why they are a best seller!

Key Features:

  • It has a premium core construction that ensures consistent rebound and provides a soft feel throughout games.
  • Showing off your school pride, this basketball displays the official collegiate affiliation logo on its surface.
  • It was built to dominate both indoor and outdoor basketball courts.
  • This ball features pebbled composite channels that maximize grip points for better control of your handles.
  • Choose from three sizes (27.5″, 28.5″, 29.5″) depending on age group or preference.
  • Select several color variations to best suit your game style or personal preferences!

 

Pros
  • It is made with a durable composite material that will withstand regular use.
  • Designed to meet NCAA standards
  • Resistant to weathering and wear
  • This ball has an excellent grip, giving players more control over their shots and passes
  • It bounces well and can be used both indoors and outdoors
Cons
  • The basketball seam can come undone after extended periods of use
  • There are no guarantees for wear and tear caused by regular use

Expert's Opinion:

If you're looking for a reliable basketball that won't break the bank but still offers excellent performance, look no further than Wilson's NCAA Indoor/Outdoor Basketballs. With its quality materials, dependable craftsmanship, and patented design features, players can be sure they're getting maximum value without compromising performance or durability.

For a comprehensive overview and detailed information about the features of Wilson's NCAA Indoor/Outdoor Basketballs.

11. WILSON NBA Authentic Series Basketballs

"Basketball for Outdoor Driveway Play"WILSON NBA Authentic Series Basketballs

With its superior durability, the Wilson NBA Authentic Series Basketball is an ideal choice for outdoor basketball games at home! It offers a tackskin cover with a cushion layer for ultimate grip in all weather conditions. The inflation retention lining creates longer-lasting air retention so you can keep playing no matter the conditions.

The ball also has NBA Pro seams suited to player preference and new channel construction. It is the official basketball of the NBA and features official branding coupled with the iconic Wilson script. This ball is durable and perfect for honing your skills, whether you are a beginner or an experienced player. Get yours today to start shooting hoops!

Key Features:

  • This cover features a new cushion layer and offers optimal grip and control in all weather conditions.
  • The patented tackskin rubber is designed for superior outdoor durability and is the same material used in professional NBA basketballs.
  • The specially designed inflation retention lining keeps the ball inflated for longer. The channel construction of this basketball is designed to suit player preference, providing improved control and grip on the ball.
  • It’s an official basketball of the NBA, so you know you’re getting an authentic product from Wilson with their classic script logo emblazoned on the cover.
  • The high-grade rubber shell is built to last through intense games, offering maximum resistance against wear and tear over time.

 

Pros
  • Official NBA branding
  • Wilson script for a professional look
  • Perfect for outdoor use
  • It will last longer
  • It gives more flexibility when shooting and dribbling
  • It has a color scheme of brown and black that makes it look sleek and stylish
Cons
  • There is no guarantee that it won't deflate over time
  • Some sizes are unavailable, such as Women's Official - Size 6 - 28.5".

Expert's Opinion:

Overall, Wilson NBA Authentic Series Basketballs are an excellent choice for a high-quality basketball experience. Their superior construction and materials ensure long-lasting durability. At the same time, their design's attention to detail enhances their aesthetics and performance on the court, whether you're playing pickup games or competitively in a tournament setting.

Explore the comprehensive details and remarkable features of WILSON NBA Authentic Series Basketballs.

 

Highest Rated Indoor Basketballs of 2024

 

Best Indoor Basketball: Buying Guide 

best indoor basketball buying guide

You are not the first one to wonder how to find a good quality indoor basketball, almost every basketball player has felt this trouble. Finding the right basketball is a time taking and boring task. Therefore, I have narrowed down the list for your ease, pick anyone and you'll not be disappointed by its performance.

There are hundreds of basketballs out in the market and everyone claims to be the best for indoor games. To perform well in the game, you should have the right ball in your hand which has a good grip, comfortable feel and ideal bounce. Therefore, I have listed the main characteristics you should consider before buying an indoor ball.

 

Material

Indoor basketballs are generally designed considering high-quality material and made from either full-grain genuine leather or the finest composite leather. The reason behind choosing premium quality material is that it provides a good grip and feels quite comfortable with the palm. However, softer material takes time in wearing out.

On the other hand, outdoor basketballs are designed to withstand hard surfaces. Therefore, they are made of rubber or hard composite leather. As a result, outdoor basketballs have slightly lesser grip as compared to indoor basketballs. Moreover, they do not need to wear out and you can use them right out of the box.

Certainly, I'll recommend you go for genuine leather or fine composite leather basketball. These are good choices if you are purchasing particularly for indoor games.

 

Size

Everyone loves to hoop a basketball no matter what the age is. Therefore, the basketball comes in different sizes to accommodate all ages and facilitate every hand. Below is a complete guide of size, weight, and circumference to facilitate every hand;

Size Weight Circumference
Size 7 22 oz 29.5"
Size 6 20 oz 28.5"
Size 5 17 oz 27.5"
Size 4 14 oz 25.5"
Size 3 10 oz 22"

 

Grip

Do consider and feel the depth of grooves and also notice the width of pebbled channels. Indeed you will find a significant difference in the grip while shooting free throws. Right grooves are essential because they provide additional grip to the fingertips. A good basketball is tacky and does not feel slippery.

A few of the basketball has moisture-absorbing technology which reduces the slipperiness of the ball. As a result, the surface of the ball stays dry and you will have complete control over the ball. Sweaty hands can spoil affect the grip and the ball will slide away from your hands quite often.

Read about best outdoor basketball shoes, they provide great support and stability on the ground.

 

Bounce

Professional players will second my words that bounce is the most important feature in a basketball. A ball should have a consistent bounce that you can rely on. Therefore, the smoother the surface of the ball is, the basketball will have a good bounce rate.

At the same time, grooves also make a significant difference in the bounce. Not only deep grooves help with shooting, but also they can be hurdles while dribbling because of unreliable bounce.

 

Air Retention

The ability to retain air pressure is an essential part of a basketball that relies on the bladder. I've tried some balls and they're not that good, but I found them poor at retaining air retention. The pressure of these balls was just too ridiculously low, which caused them to lose their bounce almost immediately after a few days.

We recommend dribbling a ball for a few minutes and measuring its PSI before and after. Also, notice the consistency of the bounce. Butyl bladder is known for keeping the air retention at the ideal pressure for long.

 

 

How to Take Care of Indoor Basketballs?

It is important for you to take care of your indoor basketball so that it may last longer. One way you can maintain its durability is by cleaning it periodically – here’s a complete guide to clean a basketball.

If your ball is still relatively new, you can check its manufacturer's website for how to take care of an indoor basketball. If the site has no instruction page about it, follow my tips below:

  • Use the indoor basketball only on indoor courts, never use it on outside asphalt surfaces – it will damage the ball
  • Never inflate beyond maximum pressure printed on top of the ball because over-inflation could cause more wear and tear than under-inflation or deflated state of the ball
  • Clean the basketball properly before playing and storing after the game finishes to prevent the dirt from making a home in the grooves
  • Do not keep it in places exposed to very high heat and cold weather elements; store it in a dry and cool place
  • Do not store it in any container because moisture could form inside due to temperature changes. Keep the ball away from direct sun exposure; store it out of sight
  • Perform periodic cleaning process to keep the basketball clean and ensure the long life
  • Do not perform strong and rough dribbles on a new basketball, let it have some break-in time to reach optimum performance

 

 

Final Verdict

Of course, hundreds of basketballs are available in the market, and indeed it is difficult to choose. However, you can pick any ball from our selection, you will never be disappointed with the performance. Our first choice of the best indoor basketball is the Spalding NBA Game Ball. It offers a great feel and unbeatable performance over indoor courts.

On the other hand, the Wilson Evolution is also a top rated indoor basketball if affordability is an issue. The ball is a great value for the money. Wilson Evolution has proclaimed the title of the champion of the indoor basketball.

We experienced Baden Elite a good basketball on indoor courts, delivering prime performance and great defense on hardwood courts. Moreover, it is available at a very affordable price comparatively at a cheaper rate than other indoor basketballs.

Confused about which is better basketball? Read Comparison of Spalding vs Wilson.

Before anyone suggests you purchase an indoor basketball, check out my compiled list and briefed reviews including buying guide. Make sure to read about each ball and its aspects before making a decision.

 

Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQs)

What is the best indoor basketball?

Wilson Evolution Basketball is the best indoor basketball. A list of best indoor basketballs is below;

  • Wilson Evolution Game Basketball
  • Baden Elite Indoor Game Basketball
  • The Rock Indoor Basketball
  • Spalding Precision Indoor Basketball
  • Molten X-Series Composite Basketball, FIBA Approved BGGX

 

What is the best indoor outdoor basketball?

Molten X-Series Indoor/Outdoor Basketball FIBA Approved is the best indoor outdoor basketball. This ball is a perfect choice in terms of feel and grip. Furthermore, the bounce has an ideal grip and designed to withstand indoor and outdoor surfaces.

 

What basketball does NBA use?

The NBA uses Spalding NBA Official Game Basketball and it has been the official NBA game ball since 1983. This indoor basketball is designed with a full-grain genuine leather cover that provides incredible touch and feels. This ball is iconic for ultimate performance and has set the basketball standards quite high.

 

Which basketball is better Wilson or Spalding?

You should choose a basketball that suits you. Spalding basketballs are great and official ball of the NBA. On the other hand, Wilson basketball is the official ball of the NCAA. Both have a slight little difference in performance but it varies from player to player. Some prefer Spalding and some players choose Wilson. So, if you are keen on great feel and performance, go for Wilson. Otherwise, if you want to purchase a ball for indoor and outdoor plays, go for Spalding, they are more durable.

 

What is the most expensive basketball?

The Spalding NBA Official Game Basketball is by far the most expensive basketball in the market. It is because the ball is made of the finest quality, full-grain genuine Horween leather.


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