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Best 28.5-inch Basketballs
Updated November 2021
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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.Read more 
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Wilson Evolution Indoor Game Basketball
Wilson
Evolution Indoor Game Basketball
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

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

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 soft feel.

Cons

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

Best Bang for the Buck
Spalding Street Outdoor Basketball
Spalding
Street Outdoor Basketball
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Perfect for Playgrounds
Bottom Line

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

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 NCAA Replica Game Basketball
Wilson Sporting Goods
NCAA Replica Game Basketball
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Pretty in Pink
Bottom Line

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

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 Heavy Duty Rubber Basketball
Champion Sports
Heavy Duty Rubber Basketball
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Simple Yet Solid
Bottom Line

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

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.

REBOILPHASE Super Grip Basketball
REBOILPHASE
Super Grip Basketball
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Most Versatile
Bottom Line

A great middle-ground option for those who want a high-quality ball for pickup games and indoor practice.

Pros

This high-quality rubber foam basketball works great on outdoor cement and indoor hardwood. Perfect for young players to carry on the go. Built to feel like leather. The tough bladder inside keeps the ball round and durable.

Cons

Might need some pumping out of the box.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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30
Models
Considered
166
Consumers
Consulted
16
Hours
Researched
Category cover

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.

Our Top Picks
Wilson
Best of the Best
Wilson
Evolution Indoor Game Basketball
Bottom Line
Intended for indoor use, this ball features thousands of micro-pebble touchpoints for an outstanding grip.
Shop Now
Spalding
Best Bang for the Buck
Spalding
Street Outdoor Basketball
Bottom Line
A rubber ball made by the biggest brand in basketball for your playground, driveway, and outdoor court.
Shop Now
Wilson Sporting Goods
Top Pick
Wilson Sporting Goods
NCAA Replica Game Basketball
Bottom Line
This NCAA ball is an admirable replica of the type that is used at college games across the country.
Shop Now
Champion Sports
Top Pick
Champion Sports
Heavy Duty Rubber Basketball
Bottom Line
A rubber ball with impressive grip that's great for indoor hoops and outdoor ones alike.
Shop Now
REBOILPHASE
Top Pick
REBOILPHASE
Super Grip Basketball
Bottom Line
A great middle-ground option for those who want a high-quality ball for pickup games and indoor practice.
Shop Now
Spalding
Top Pick
Spalding
NBA Zi/O Excel Basketball
Bottom Line
Use this deep-channeled ball indoors or outdoors – just know that it loses its grip when wet.
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Spalding
Top Pick
Spalding
NBA Street Basketball – Pink & Purple
Bottom Line
This ball may have delicate colors, but it's tough enough for serious street play.
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Spalding
Top Pick
Spalding
NBA Street Basketball
Bottom Line
Girls will love this feminine spin on the classic youth street ball.
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Baden
Top Pick
Baden
Elite Indoor Game Basketball
Bottom Line
A great basketball that has a soft feel and an excellent bounce.
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