Court & Equipment Specifications

Age-appropriate court dimensions, basket heights, and equipment standards.

Specifications by Age Group

Age Group	Ball Size	Basket Height	Court Size	3-Point Arc	Free-Throw Line
Ages 7-8	Size 5 (27.5") - Boys & Girls	8'	50' x 42'	Not applicable	14'
Ages 9-11	Size 6 (28.5") - Boys & Girls	9'	74' x 50'	Not applicable	14'
Ages 12-14	Size 6 Girls / Size 7 Boys	10'	84' x 50' or 94' x 50'	19' 9"	15'
Grades 9-12	Size 6 Girls / Size 7 Boys	10'	94' x 50'	22' 2" (or next available line under)	15'

Basket Height Progression

Lower baskets for younger players promote proper shooting form and success, building confidence before transitioning to regulation height.

Ages 7-8 8 feet

Ages 9-11 9 feet

Ages 12+ 10 feet (regulation)

Court Dimensions

Ages 7-8 50' x 42'

Smaller court keeps the action close and manageable for young players.

Ages 9-11 74' x 50'

Intermediate size prepares players for full-court play.

Ages 12-14 84' x 50' or 94' x 50'

Transitioning to regulation-size courts.

High School+ 94' x 50' (regulation)

Full regulation court used at high school, college, and professional levels.

3-Point Arc Distance

Note: 3-point shots are not used in youth basketball (ages 11 and under) to emphasize fundamentals and balanced scoring.

Ages 7-11 Not applicable

Ages 12-14 19' 9"

High School 22' 2" (or next available line)

NBA 23' 9" (corners: 22')

Free-Throw Line Distance

The free-throw line distance is adjusted for younger age groups to account for developing strength and promote proper shooting technique.

14'

Ages 7-11

15'

Ages 12+ (regulation)

Coaching Tip

The shortened free-throw line allows younger players to use proper form rather than "heaving" the ball. Focus on technique at the appropriate distance, then gradually move back as strength develops.