Beginner basketball gear list — what you need for your first game
To start basketball, a ball and a solid pair of shoes are often all it takes; the rest comes as you get used to the game. This list separates what helps in your first games and practices from what can wait. Share it with a room code with your teammates and settle who brings the ball and the bag; no sign-up needed.
In short
To start basketball you need a ball, basketball shoes with good grip and ankle support, sports socks, shorts and a breathable T-shirt. Men use a size 7 ball and women a size 6. Add a water bottle, towel and sweatband; knee sleeves, compression tights and a mouthguard aren't needed in the first days and can wait.
15 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.
What's on the list
- Basketballmen's size 7, women's 6
- Basketball shoesgood grip and support
- Sports socks2 pairs
- Basketball shorts
- Breathable T-shirt or jersey
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Gym bag
- Headband and wristbands
- Ball pumpwith a spare needle
- Spare T-shirt
- Court booking
- Knee sleevescan wait
- Compression tightscan wait
- Mouthguardcan wait
Tips
Pick shoes for the surface you'll play on; an indoor court and outdoor asphalt call for different soles, and a tougher one lasts outside.
If you'll play outdoors, get an outdoor ball; indoor balls wear out quickly on asphalt.
Warm up with 5-10 minutes of light jogging, jumping and ankle and knee movements before every game.
Check the ball's pressure now and then; a soft ball won't bounce and an overinflated one is harder to control.
How it works
1. Open your room
Tap the button and the items land in a fresh room. No account, no email, nothing to install.
2. Share the code
Send the room code or the link to the group; everyone's on the same list in seconds.
3. Finish it together
Who's buying what shows up instantly; bought items get ticked, so nobody buys the same thing twice.
Frequently asked questions
What size basketball should you use?
Adult men use a size 7 ball, while women and teenagers use a size 6. Younger children use smaller balls.
Are running shoes enough for basketball?
For a first try they work, but they aren't ideal. Basketball shoes give better grip and ankle support for jumping, sudden stops and sideways movement.
Do you need knee sleeves for basketball?
No, not at the start. Some players wear them for comfort; if you have knee problems, ask a professional what's right for you.
Can I change the list?
Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.
Do I need an account?
No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.
How long is the list kept?
As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.
Can I install it on my phone?
Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.