10 Best Basketballs 2026 in the United States

The WILSON Evolution Game Basketball is a top choice for indoor basketball players, especially adults, thanks to its official size 7 (29.5 inches) which is standard for adult play. It uses a premium microfiber composite material, which helps deliver a soft, comfortable touch known as the 'Evo Feel,' making it easier to grip and control the ball during play. The ball's grip is further enhanced by composite channels that provide a consistent texture all around, improving handling.

Its cushioning core construction contributes not only to the softness but also supports good bounce quality, suitable for quick and responsive indoor games. Durability is solid for an indoor ball; the cover is designed to withstand regular use through a whole season and beyond without wearing out quickly. One downside is that it's specifically made for indoor courts, so it may not hold up well on rough outdoor surfaces. Players looking for a reliable, easy-to-handle basketball that prioritizes grip and feel during games will find this model well-suited to their needs.

The Wilson NCAA Evo NXT basketball is a size 7 ball, which is the standard size for adult men's basketball, making it suitable for serious players and competitive play. It’s made with a Micro-Touch composite leather cover, which offers a soft feel and improved grip, even when your hands get sweaty. This material also helps with moisture management, reducing slipperiness during fast-paced games. The ball’s super soft core provides extra cushioning, allowing better finger control and a softer touch—this is great if you want a ball that feels comfortable to handle and shoot. Thanks to the composite pebbled channels, the texture is consistent all around, enhancing your grip and control.

The ball is designed with Extended Range Technology to help generate more spin with less effort, which can improve shooting accuracy. It’s also officially approved for high school (NFHS) and NCAA play, so it meets competitive standards. A bonus is the bright Electric Orange color, which improves ball visibility on the court, even in dim lighting. On the downside, as an indoor-only basketball, it’s not built for outdoor use, where rough surfaces could wear it down faster. Composite leather generally doesn’t last as long outdoors compared to genuine leather or rubber balls.

Some players might prefer a firmer feel over the soft core, depending on personal preference. This ball is best suited for indoor recreational and competitive players looking for excellent grip, a soft touch, and good control in a regulation-sized basketball.

The Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball - DRV Pro is a top choice for recreational play, especially for outdoor use. As a Size 7 (29.5 inches) basketball, it meets the standard for adult male players and aligns with the official NBA size, making it a suitable option for those accustomed to professional standards.

The material of the ball is leather, and it features a Tackskin cover, which provides a cushioned layer for enhanced grip in various weather conditions. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor play where surfaces can be unpredictable and maintaining control is crucial. The grip and texture are further improved by the NBA Pro seams and new channel construction, which many players may find to their liking for better handling and shooting accuracy.

Bounce consistency is supported by the inflation retention lining, which ensures longer-lasting air retention, reducing the frequency of needing to re-inflate the ball. Durability is a strong point of this basketball, as it is specifically designed for outdoor use, making it resilient against the rough surfaces typically encountered outside. One potential drawback could be the weight of the ball. At 0.46 kilograms, it may feel slightly heavier than some other recreational basketballs, which could affect play for some users. Additionally, while the leather material and Tackskin cover provide excellent grip and durability, they may require regular maintenance to keep in optimal condition, especially after extensive outdoor use. This basketball is highly recommended for adult recreational players who frequently play outdoors and prefer a ball that closely mirrors the professional standards of the NBA.