Basketball Checklist- All the Apparel, Gear and Preseason Training You Need

This article was originally featured on Hibbett University. Not all products are currently available on Hibbett.com. Last updated: June 12, 2020.

It’s time to get ready for tip-off, but don’t head to the big game without all the right equipment. Check out this list of must-haves and must-do’s to make this season a winning one.

What kind of basketball shoes should I choose?

Selecting the right pair of basketball shoes is an important part of getting ready for the upcoming season. The sport requires being able to move quickly and explode with sudden changes in direction. Without the proper footwear, players can’t make the shifts in movement needed to play at an effective level. There’s also a great deal of jumping involved in basketball.

Shoes that provide adequate amounts of support and stability serve as shock absorbers and help to prevent foot and ankle injuries.

Have the player’s foot measured by a professional. This will help determine the correct shoe size and whether the player needs a custom fit for narrow or wide feet.

After measuring, determine the playing style of the person wearing the shoe.

• Small, nimble and fast players might want a lightweight shoe with moderate amounts of flexibility and support.
• Taller, heavier players may need a denser shoe to help displace their weight as they jump and move up and down the court.

Knowing where you play is another thing to consider when choosing basketball shoes. The sole of the shoes includes a rubber pattern that helps to grip hardwood floors and provide traction. Manufacturers tailor most basketball shoes to indoor play, though some offer styles with heavier, more durable soles for outdoor courts.

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What kind of basketball apparel does the sport require?

In basketball, players need to look the part to play the part. A fresh warmup suit or track jacket keeps teams looking stylish before the game. It’s also important to stock up on practice apparel and compression shorts, sleeves and tops. Players should try different combinations of shooter sleeves and practice T-shirts to find clothing and materials in which they’re most comfortable playing.

Basketball jerseys have seen several changes over the years as technology has improved and fabrics have become lighter. Companies like Nike, adidas and Under Armour use ultra-lightweight fabrics that are surprisingly durable, while providing ventilation and helping players to stay cool and keep from overexertion. Be sure to pick up a couple of practice jerseys to look like the pros during training sessions.

Basketball shorts are usually made of the same fabric as jerseys. Ideally, the fit shouldn’t be too snug or too loose, as both can cause issues with moving around the court. Modern basketball shorts either reach or go below the kneecaps. At that length, the shorts can provide warmth to the quadriceps and hamstrings, and help prevent muscle cramps and some injuries.

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What type of basketball should I buy, and do I need any accessories to go with it?

Basketballs come in different sizes for various types of players. Usually age determines the size of basketball required. Because younger players have smaller hands, they need a smaller ball to learn important technical skills and enjoy the game. Keep a pump and needle handy for when your ball requires a little air.

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What sort of basketball training should I expect?

Conditioning is a massive part of playing basketball. Having the ability to fight through fatigue and outwork opponents can be a significant advantage during close games. Preseason conditioning work also helps build mental toughness to push through adversity, something that could come in handy in the fourth quarter when a team is down by 10 points.

It’s also important to know what to work on before the season starts. This saves time and shows the coach and team that the player is committed to helping the group improve. By focusing on two or three goals instead of trying to get better at everything, players are able to see the fruits of their labor and build habits that breed success.