5 Best 28.5-inch Basketballs - Oct. 2026

BEST OF THE BEST

Wilson

Evolution Indoor Game Basketball

Customer Favorite

Intended for indoor use, this ball features thousands of micro-pebble touchpoints for an outstanding grip.

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PROS

Evo microfiber composite leather cover offers a great combination of grip and durability.
Quality grip comes from thousands of micro-pebble touchpoints.
Moisture-wicking inlaid channels.
Cushioned core.
Good grip with a soft feel.

CONS

Slippery when it gets wet.
Takes time to break this ball in.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

Spalding

Street Outdoor Basketball

Perfect for Playgrounds

A rubber ball made by the biggest brand in basketball for your playground, driveway, and outdoor court.

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PROS

Available in traditional colors or pink/purple, this rubber ball is built to withstand tougher playing surfaces.
This is perfect for outdoor practice and pickup games.
Deep channels help players keep control as they drive to the hoop.

CONS

Only for outdoor use;
not ideal for indoor play.

Wilson Sporting Goods

NCAA Replica Game Basketball

Pretty in Pink

This NCAA ball is an admirable replica of the type that is used at college games across the country.

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PROS

The moisture-absorbing leather keeps the grip strong as sweaty athletes pass it around.
The exterior is soft, making it easier to shoot jump shots like the pros.
Great option for those who don't want to splurge for top-of-the-line options.

CONS

Some say that this deflates quicker than others.

Champion Sports

Heavy Duty Rubber Basketball

Simple Yet Solid

A rubber ball with impressive grip that's great for indoor hoops and outdoor ones alike.

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PROS

All-purpose design makes it a go-to for those who want it all.
Built for perfect bounce and aerodynamic flight on jumpers.
Champion builds this high-value basketball to withstand constant use without going lopsided and springing leaks.

CONS

While it ships inflated, it might lose air in transit.

Baden

SkilCoach Shooter's Training Basketball, Rubber, 28.5"

Great Learning Tool

Baden's indoor and outdoor basketball helps young players learn the proper way to hold it.

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PROS

It's an affordable way to work on you or your child's shooting form.
The hand graphics breakdown proper shooting mechanics.
The rubber cover can withstand constant play on hardwood and concrete alike.
Great for practice at the park.

CONS

Some would prefer this ball come in a game-ready leather model.

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First Reviewed

September 27, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Ade Hennis

Updated April 2023

With 28.5” basketballs, you’ll have the perfect size for female and younger players. The size of a basketball is measured by the circumference of the ball. You’ll find that 28.5” basketballs are made for pre-teen children. Women’s basketball leagues also use the 28.5” basketball, sometimes called a size 6 ball. A standard men’s basketball is a size 7 ball, which has a 29.5” circumference. Some manufacturers also offer size 5 basketballs, which measure 27.5” in circumference. These are made for children younger than 9 years old. Using 28.5” basketballs for younger players and women is a smart idea. The slightly smaller ball fits the hands of kids and women better than the standard size ball. This allows for more successful ballhanding skills and shooting results.

Best 28.5-inch Basketballs

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

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