The Best Basketballs
We compared five basketballs on owner ratings, video reviews, and prices. The Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MP5P4J) is our top pick for its durability and grip.
Updated
The bottom line
The Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MP5P4J) is our top pick, thanks to its durable construction, excellent grip, and consistent performance. It's priced at $23.7, which is reasonable for the quality it offers. The closest alternative is the Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball (B0DLJ69Q3N) at $10.99, which offers good value and versatility but lacks the official NBA branding and slightly lower durability. For a budget pick, the Champion Sports Rubber Basketballs (B0000V48CU) at $9.99 provides solid performance and durability at a lower price, though it ships deflated and requires an external pump.
WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball $23.70
Best overall basketball for outdoor play
The Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MP5P4J) offers excellent durability, grip, and performance at $23.7. Owners rate it 9.2/10 from 8274 ratings, and video reviewers give it 7/10. It's best for those who want a reliable outdoor ball with official NBA branding. Skip it if you're on a tight budget.
Check price on Amazon
Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball $10.99
Best budget basketball for versatile use
The Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball (B0DLJ69Q3N) is a versatile option at $10.99, suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. It has a true bounce and flight, and owners rate it 9/10 from 17373 ratings. It's suitable for casual players and those on a budget. Skip it if you need official NBA branding.
Check price on Amazon
Champion Sports Rubber Basketballs $9.99
Best value basketball for all ages
The Champion Sports Rubber Basketballs (B0000V48CU) offer good performance and durability at $9.99. Owners rate it 9/10 from 17430 ratings. It's suitable for casual play and those looking for a budget-friendly option. Skip it if you need a pre-inflated ball.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball Best for outdoor durability and grip. 9.0/10 $23.70 Amazon
- Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball Great for versatile indoor and outdoor use. 8.0/10 $10.99 Amazon
- Champion Sports Rubber Basketballs Best budget option with good performance. 8.0/10 $9.99 Amazon
- Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball Affordable with consistent bounce, ships deflated. 7.0/10 $9.89 Amazon
- WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball Currently unavailable, similar to B091MP5P4J. 8.0/10 $16.99 Amazon
Who should buy which
The Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MP5P4J) is best for serious players who need a durable, high-grip ball for outdoor play. The Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball (B0DLJ69Q3N) is suitable for casual players and those who want a versatile ball for both indoor and outdoor use. The Champion Sports Rubber Basketballs (B0000V48CU) are suitable for budget-conscious buyers who need a reliable ball for casual play.
What owners complain about
Some owners of the Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MP5P4J) mention that it may not last as long as higher-end models. Owners of the Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball (B0DLJ69Q3N) and Champion Sports Rubber Basketballs (B0000V48CU) note that these balls ship deflated and require an external pump.
Also-rans
The Champion Sports Pro-Style Basketball (B0001CMXJS) is a good option but loses out to the Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MP5P4J) in durability and grip. The Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball (B091MJ3TKN) is currently unavailable and is similar to the B091MP5P4J, so it's not considered in this ranking.