The size of a basketball used in FIBA (International Basketball Federation) games and in NBA (National Basketball Association) games are slightly different.
FIBA basketballs have a circumference of around 75 cm (29.5 inches) while the official size of NBA basketballs have a circumference of around 78 cm (30.7 inches).
Additionally, the weight of the basketballs used in each league is also slightly different, with a FIBA ball weighing between 567-650 grams (20-22.9 ounces) and an NBA ball weighing between 567-624 grams (20-22 ounces).
Here are 5 additional differences between FIBA vs NBA basketballs:
- Pressure: The pressure required for a FIBA ball is between 7.26-8.72 psi (pounds per square inch), while the pressure for an NBA ball is between 8.5-9.5 psi.
- Bounce Height: The bounce height of a FIBA ball is between 50-56 cm (19.7-22 inches), while the bounce height of an NBA ball is between 53-56 cm (20.9-22 inches).
- Material: The material used in a FIBA ball is usually synthetic leather or composite leather, while the material used in an NBA ball is usually genuine leather or a synthetic composite.
- Brand: FIBA allows multiple brands to manufacture official balls for their tournaments, while the NBA has a exclusive agreement with Spalding for the production of their game balls.
- Color: FIBA allows for a variety of colored balls to be used in their games, while the NBA only allows for an orange ball to be used in their games.
What do NBA players thinks about FIBA basketballs compared to NBA basketballs?
- Tim Duncan: Tim Duncan, former NBA player, has said that the smaller size of the FIBA ball made it more difficult for him to shoot and handle, as he was used to the larger size of the NBA ball.
- Pau Gasol: Pau Gasol, former NBA player, has also said that the smaller size of the FIBA ball affected his shooting and handling, as he was not used to the smaller size.
- Manu Ginobili: Manu Ginobili, former NBA player, has said that the FIBA ball was lighter and bouncier than the NBA ball, which made it more difficult to control when shooting and passing.
- Tony Parker: Tony Parker, former NBA player, has said that the smaller size of the FIBA ball affected his shot, as the ball was more difficult to grip and control.
- LeBron James: LeBron James, NBA player, has said that the larger size of the NBA ball was better for him because it allowed him to grip the ball better, especially when driving to the basket.
- Kobe Bryant: Kobe Bryant, former NBA player, has said that the differences in the size and pressure of the basketballs between FIBA and the NBA did not affect his playing style or technique, as he was able to adjust quickly to any ball he was using.
Which Company Makes NBA & FIBA Official Basketballs?
Spalding is a well-known basketball manufacturer, renowned as the official ball provider for the NBA. Nike and Wilson also have a following due to their diverse range of textures, advanced technologies, and appealing color combinations. An official-size men’s basketball typically costs between $30 and $60. Spalding supplies both the NBA and WNBA, while Wilson is the preferred brand for the NCAA and most youth leagues. As previously stated, Molten is the official supplier for basketballs used in FIBA and international leagues.
