What are the Best Indoor Basketballs in 2022?
It can be readily said that;
Finding the perfect indoor-only basketball seems pretty tough in 2022 as there are dozens of brands, each with its explicit line of products.
The given options are pretty versatile for official indoor basketballs, but this doesn’t mean choosing the right one is easy as it sounds. You see, unlike the outdoor basketballs, which are a whole different beast, the indoor product line is made with precision as they tend to have that solid feel and explicit gripping. Besides that, each unit shares its own set of features that make it stand out from the rest, from texture to bounce.
This means if you choose from spoiled or cheap indoor basketballs,the chances are your particular model won’t hold the test of time, which is awful for any player. Luckily, we have rounded the list for top-rated basketballs that are some of the best in the industry in any category. From performance to ergonomics, these NBA indoor basketballs are bound to deliver. Whether you’re looking for an expensive ball or an affordable option, we will have you covered. So, let’s get into it!
Best Indoor Basketballs to Buy: Reviewed
Before we get into the independent reviews, it’s worth noting that each product mentioned here is based on our personal opinion after countless hours of research and run down on personal reviews from many platforms like Amazon. So, no matter which indoor-only basketball you pick, it will be ultimately worth it in the long run. With that said, some of the balls in the list can be a bit expensive compared to any typical outdoor unit, but if you want quality, it’s worth spending extra bucks!
| Basketballs | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Best: Wilson EVO | ★★★★★ | |
| Bang for the Buck: Spalding NBA Neverflat | ★★★★★ | |
| Top 28.5" for indoor: Baden Element | ★★★★★ | |
| Best Leather choice: The Rock Official | ★★★★★ | |
| Best All-around : Wilson Jet | ★★★★★ |
1) Overall Best official indoor basketball: Wilson Evo NXT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Suited for the best indoor courts
- Equipped with wide channel construction
- Microscopic texture for high-end gripping
Starting at number one, we have the Wilson Evo NXT. Wilson has been renowned for making some of the nice indoor basketballs, and this particular model is no exception to that. Being an official ball for NBA games, it is loved by enthusiasts who want to hone their skills in this sport at a professional level. From construction to overall stability, it’s a complete men’s indoor basketball from construction to overall stability, which you need to get your hands on!
Surface & Grip
The Wilson Evo NXT is explicitly made for indoor courts, so it defiantly maintains its standard in terms of the overall construction. It features composite pebble channels in its design that enhance its gripping and provides a top-of-the-line feel to it. You will notice that Wilson has specifically integrated a super soft core around its base in order to make the bounce more natural and less tiresome.
Durability
Like us, you will be pretty surprised to notice how well the Wilson Evo NXT is equipped in terms of its longevity. The ball itself is made from a durable composite material that is no way near cheap. This material helps the design in moisture management, useful for those who have pretty sweaty hands.
Dynamic Visuals
Like any other NBA indoor basketball, it shares pretty vibrant colors, which greatly enhance its visibility.
- Reduced sweat with advanced moisture-wicking system
- It comes with soft cushioning
- Made for unparallel performance
- It readily degrades outdoors
- Lack of leather in ergonomics
2) Best Bang for the Buck: Spalding NBA Neverflat
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Among most expensive basketballs in Spalding lineup
- Features consistent NBA level performance
- Quality gripping & advanced air retention
Spalding has been making some quality basketballs lately, and this product is a living example of that. It shares all the bells and whistles you will need to perform in any indoor court and hone your skills and experience. Coming at an $80 price tag, some balling enthusiasts might say that it’s not cheap, but the amount of performance the Neverflat delivers is worth it!
Surface & Grip
The first thing is; first, the Spalding Neverflat is equipped with performance-driven composite leather, which makes hooping easy as it gets in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You will love its nitro late air technology, which prevents air from sliding out of it during any intense game.
Durability
Design-wise, this prime product is built like a tank. It will stay relevant and protect itself from any wear and tear. According to Spalding itself, you won’t see any degradation in its bonce for as far as a year.
NBA Level game ball
Being an NBA-level basketball, its inflation level is adjusted between 8 PSI, while the overall dimensions are kept under 29.5 Inches.
- It features imported composite leather
- Enhanced air retention
- Designed for longevity
- Some customers reported leakage issues
- A bit expensive
3) Top 28.5 inches for indoor play: Baden Element Game Ball
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Preferable on best indoor surfaces
- Provides optimal ball control and bounce
- It comes to NFHS Approved
If you’re a hardcore fan of NBA balls and want something over the edge, you came to the right place as the Baden Element is explicitly made for these kinds of needs. Like any other expensive produt from brands like Wilson and Spalding, it shares a wide plethora of features that can get you going on any indoor court within no time. Whether you’re a professional or beginner level basketball player, its sure is a good product.
Surface & Grip
Even constructed from a composite material, this top notch ball has a consistent leather feel and support. When backed by the shallow channels, this slight cushion feel derives superior results whenever you’re on the court. Besides that, the ball itself is symmetrical with several reversed seams to enhance the overall ball handling capacity. Whether you’re using it as a recreational activity or practising it in high school, it won’t let you down.
Durability
This nice-looking ball is NFHS Approved because it offers sturdiness right off the bat. Its composite microfiber covers enhance the overall stability and perform like any other durable basketball on the market.
Multiple-sizes
This indoor-only basketball is available in multiple sizes to provide you versatility, i.e., 28.5 &29.5 inchs.
- Added grip with Cushion Control Technology
- Best cheap indoor basketball
- Symmetrical design
- Requires additional inflammation
- You have to buy the ball pump separately
Leather choice: The Rock Official Men’s
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Budget oriented leather ball in the market
- Optimal for any men’s basketball court
- Available in full size
It may seem odd, but we have the Rock Official Indoor on the second spot. In the realm of top-end basketballs, one of the manufacturers that have been quite underrated is none other than THE ROCK. Like Wilson & Nike, they have been making sports good for quite some time, and their latest edition is no exception to a superb performance.
Surface & Grip
The Rock is made from performance-driven leather material that is suited for any professional indoor game. It features a Deep Pebble channel design that offers superior grip no matter how harsh the court condition is, making it a perfect choice for budget-oriented players. On top of that, this cheap game ball is backed by a 100% nylon wound to give you a solid grip in your upcoming session on court.
Durability
It might not be the best 28.5 basketballon the market, but it does provide high-end composite material, so you don’t have to worry about durability. The sponge rubber patented exterior integration will make it resistant to extreme ball-handling and other kinds of wear and tear that you will face on the court.
Affordable
Being a top-rated indoor basketball, it’s pretty affordable in pricing. You can buy this game ball for just under $50, right off Amazon today!
- Provided by certification of authenticity
- Equipped with Nylon covering
- Quite responsive in indoor games
- It doesn’t hold air pretty well outdoors
- Not a reliable brand like Wilson
5) Prime Indoor Basketball: Wilson Jet Competition
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Comfy grip and premium support
- One of the official game balls
- Approved by NFHS
Finally, at number 5, we are proud to present Wilson Jet Competition, another prime basketball for indoor play that deserves praise among consumers. It is widely used for college-level American games and suited for all beginners out there without a thought. If you’re on a budget and want the best of the bunch, you can’t go wrong picking this product!
Surface & Grip
The composite materials used for its construction make it suitable for any indoor matches. Numerous microfibers are backing over its design, which provides it added strength and enhances its ball-handling capacity. Consequently, whenever you’re on the court, Wilson jet will provide you with unparalleled control.
Durability
This basketball itself is soft and tacky but don’t get confused about its durability. The integrated Cushion Core Carcass gradually improves its strength while still making it stand out from the rest. The same can be said for the bounce, which remains consistent round the clock.
Availability
Unlike its competitors, the Wilson Jet Competition is entirely laid in terms of its availability. You can get your hands on in both 28.5 & 29.5inch sizes.
- Solid grip and easy inflation
- Equipped with a tacky feel
- Available in multiple sizes
- It may have deep seams
- It takes time to blend in
Conclusion
In conclusion, these are the top 5 best indoor basketballs that are on the market this year. If you are still unsure, then let me give you a quick summary. There is no doubt that indoor games are pretty popular among basketball enthusiasts, but choosing an ideal ball can be a bit of a hustle. However, brands like Wilson have provided top-rated products like the Wilson Evo NXT, which can get the job done within no time. Just choose wisely and plan according to your skill set, and you are good to go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1, Can you use an indoor basketball outside?
Indoor basketballs are generally not suited for outdoor use due to their tacky construction; however, there are few exceptions like the Spalding NBA Never flat.
Q.2, Is it easier to play basketball indoors than outdoors?
When we specifically talk about indoor and outdoor basketball, the indoor courts are easier for beginners as they rely on plywood flooring.
Hello!
My name is Kaz, and I am a devoted basketball enthusiast with over 15 years of experience both as a player and a coach. Beginning my career as an assistant coach for a college team, I soon found tremendous success as a professional basketball coach. I derive immense pleasure from assisting and mentoring others in matters pertaining to basketball equipment, and as such, I freely share my training programs with my followers and readers via my blog. Learn more about me on my about page.
