The National Basketball Association (NBA) is the most popular basketball league in the world and the official basketball used in the NBA is one of the most iconic pieces of sporting equipment in the world. The official ball of the NBA is the Spalding NBA Official Game Basketball, which is made by the sporting goods company Spalding. In this article, we will discuss the features and characteristics of the current official NBA ball, as well as its history and evolution.
History of the Official NBA Ball
The official NBA ball has been in existence since the late 1950s, when the league was known as the Basketball Association of America (BAA). The original BAA ball was made of leather and featured the BAA logo. By the early 1960s, the BAA ball had evolved into the current official NBA ball, which is made of a composite material called “microfiber composite leather”. This material is more durable than traditional leather and is designed to last longer.
Features and Characteristics of the Current NBA Ball
The current official NBA ball is made of a microfiber composite leather and features a unique two-panel design. The two panels are made of different materials, with the outside panel being made of rubber and the inside panel being made of composite leather. The rubber panel provides extra grip and control for the ball, while the leather panel adds durability.
The ball also features a unique “sponge rubber” core, which is designed to give the ball a softer, more consistent bounce. In addition, the ball has a “waterproof” coating, which helps to protect the ball from dirt and moisture.
The official NBA ball is also designed to meet the specifications set by the NBA. The ball must be between 29.5 and 30 inches in circumference, and it must weigh between 20 and 22 ounces. In addition, the ball must be marked with the official NBA logo and the name of the manufacturer (Spalding).
Evolution of the Official NBA Ball
Throughout the years, the official NBA ball has undergone several changes and improvements. In the early 2000s, the ball was changed to a softer composite leather, which provided players with more grip and control.
In 2006, the ball changed again, to a two-panel design, which features a rubber outer panel and a composite leather inner panel. This design provides more control and grip than the single-panel design.
In 2019, the ball underwent a major change, with the introduction of a new “microfiber composite leather” material. This material is designed to provide better grip and control, as well as increased durability.
Conclusion
The official NBA ball has come a long way since its inception in the late 1950s. Today, the ball is made of a durable microfiber composite leather and features a two-panel design for increased control and grip. The ball is designed to meet the specifications set by the NBA, and it is marked with the official NBA logo and the name of the manufacturer (Spalding). With its history of evolutionary changes and improvements, the official NBA ball is one of the most iconic pieces of sporting equipment in the world.