Ready for basketball season? Stay focused and on track with the help of our streamlined basketball equipment list.
Basketball Equipment and Gear Checklist
We have been there, and we know: Coaches have more to manage than most people think. Let us make the pre-season easier for you.
Whether you are a first-time coach who needs a little guidance or a seasoned pro who wants an easy way to double-check gear, this list has you covered. Learn more about all the gear a youth basketball team needs.
Download the PDF: Basketball Equipment and Gear Checklist
1. Basketball Shoes
Basketball shoes are not just a fashion statement—though some teenagers love their aesthetic. Basketball shoes are primarily designed to provide stability on the court.
Young players might rely on regular tennis shoes for throwing hoops in the front yard, but game day calls for more support. High-cut designs protect ankles during pivoting, while durable rubber soles provide traction for quick movements.
Add crew socks with arch support to keep feet cool and comfortable.
2. Custom Uniforms
Basketball players wear jerseys and shorts on the court, typically made of polyester or polyester/spandex blends. These breathable and lightweight apparel options allow easy, comfortable movement during gameplay.
Custom basketball jerseys allow your players to rep team colors for enhanced cohesion and camaraderie. We can add logos, numbers, names, or other design elements to your jersey.
Take a look at gearUP’s size chart and catalog for more information.
3. Protective Gear
Safety is paramount, particularly for young, still-growing players. The American Dental Academy supports mouth guard use during sports, including basketball. Mouth guards are used in the NBA by many players, and they protect against dental trauma and oral injury.
Knee pads and elbow pads add extra protection—and also offer compression that improves circulation. Look at league regulations and encourage athletes to speak with their doctor about protective gear.
4. Athlete Accessories
Shoes, uniforms, and protective equipment cover the basics for your athletes. Many players benefit from extra accessories for added support and comfort. Your players might want:
- Compression gear
- Sports bra or undershirt
- Ankle braces or knee braces
- Outerwear like jackets and sweats
- Headbands or sweatbands
- Extra apparel for practice or travel
Do not forget a gym bag to carry everything in. Your uniform provider may be able to supply custom options for bags or practice apparel.
5. Basketballs
Basketballs are not all the same. They come in different sizes and materials.
Composite leather basketballs are the most common, and probably what your league recommends for game day. Rubber basketballs are more durable and may be appropriate for certain practice conditions.
Preferred basketball size depends on player age and league regulations. Unless you have very young players, your team will likely use size 7 or size 6 basketballs.
| Size | Diameter | Weight | Player Age |
| 7 | 29.5 in | 22 oz | Male 12+ |
| 6 | 2.85 in | 20 oz | Female 9+Male 9–11 |
| 5 | 27.5–27.75 in | 14–16 oz | < 8 |
Your practice area should have a hoop and a net. Depending on the setup, you may also want a ball return system, ball containment netting, or other court accessories that ease practice. Always keep an air pump on hand to reinflate basketballs as necessary.
6. Training Equipment
Parents might be involved with youth athletic apparel, but coaches and directors provide the other training equipment. Even if your school or league provides resources, you have to choose what equipment to use. Think about the drills and skills you want to incorporate during practice time.
You may want to invest in:
- Weighted basketballs for strength building and increased ball handling
- Agility ladders for footwork and dribbling drills
- Dribbling goggles to support skill development in young players
You know your team and their development trajectory best. Use equipment that hones their skills and increases their confidence.
Related Reading: Cost to Start a Basketball League
Check Uniforms Off Your List with gearUP
Basketball equipment list: Check. Now simplify uniform ordering and distribution with gearUP. We design custom basketball apparel, set up a team shop for individual orders, and ship all items direct-to-athlete.
No more handling bulk orders, sizing confusion, or parent complaints. Just high-quality uniforms that make your team look and feel their best.
Contact a gearUP representative today to get started.
