Heart & Hustle Basketball Training specializes in basketball training for boys & girls ages 4-15.

This blog will explore best practices and give an idea of what to expect from basketball training in each age group.

First, we will start off taking a closer look at the age of the child and the size of the basketball that they should be using.

When it comes to basketball, one size doesn’t fit all. The information below is meant to be used as a guide. For best results, it is a good idea to approach each child on a case by case basis according to their needs.

When a child is first being exposed to basketball, it should be done in a way that is fun! The purpose of the intro should be to make it as enjoyable experience as possible. If basketball is introduced to young children in a way that is non-threatening and fun, then they are more likely to want to play more basketball.

What size ball is right for your child?

Many websites offer different opinions when it comes to identifying the correct size ball that children should be using. By children using a smaller ball that is more proportional to the size of their hands, children will have better ball control and will lead to enhanced skill development.

The information below regarding children ages and the recommended appropriate basketball sizes come from the USA Basketball website.

Ages 4-6: Most children in this age group are not able to reach a standard height hoop. (However, I have seen 4 year olds not only be able to reach the regulation basket, but to actually make shots – consistently!) Also, children in this age group would benefit from a smaller size basketball. Basketballs come in mini-size. Size 4 basketball is size 25.5″ These are good option for children who have no prior exposure to basketball. However, the goal should be to get them to a size 5 basketball (27.5″) once they get the hang of it.

Ages 7-8: With a little guidance, most children in this age group are able to reach the hoop. Children in this age group will benefit from the use of the size 5 basketball (27.5″).

Ages 9-11: It is recommended that children in this age group use the size 6 basketball (28.5″).

It is also important to note that while official NBA men’s basketballs are size 7 (29.5″), the WNBA women’s basketballs are size 6 (28.5″).

So, in essence, girls should use size 28.5″ basketballs from age 9 all the way through adulthood.

Here is a chart to help identify the correct size by age group.