Everything You Need for High School Basketball (Ages 14–18)
High school basketball is a serious commitment — daily practices, a long season, and physical play. The gear needs to support that workload.
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Budget Gear (~$190–275)
Everything needed for tryouts and the season.
| Item | What to Look For | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball (Size 7) | Composite indoor/outdoor — Wilson NCAA Replica 29.5 or Spalding TF-250 | $25–35 |
| Basketball shoes | Solid mid-tier — Nike Precision, Adidas Exhibit A, Under Armour Lockdown | $70–100 |
| Shorts (×2) | Basketball shorts — mesh or knit, above knee | $20–30 |
| Practice shirts (×3) | Performance moisture-wicking shirts | $25–35 |
| Compression shorts | Standard compression shorts with cup pocket | $10–15 |
| Protective cup | Athletic cup — required for physical play at this level | $10–15 |
| Gym bag | Quality bag with shoe and ball compartments | $20–30 |
| Water bottle (large) | 32+ oz insulated bottle | $10–15 |
Estimated total: $190–275
Mid-Range Gear (~$360–545)
Gear for a player competing for varsity.
| Item | What to Look For | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Basketballs (×2) | Premium game ball + outdoor rubber ball | $45–65 |
| Basketball shoes | Performance shoes — Nike LeBron, Adidas Harden, Under Armour Curry | $110–150 |
| Shorts (×3) | Quality basketball shorts — Nike, Adidas, or UA | $30–50 |
| Practice shirts (×4) | Performance jerseys and training tops | $35–55 |
| Full compression set | Shorts, shirt, knee sleeves — Nike Pro, Under Armour HeatGear | $35–55 |
| Protective cup | Quality compression shorts with cup | $10–15 |
| Ankle braces (×2) | Essential at this level — McDavid, Zamst, or Active Ankle | $20–35 |
| Premium gym bag | Backpack-style with full organization | $35–50 |
| Foam roller | For post-practice recovery — 18” firm roller | $15–25 |
| Resistance bands | For warm-up and strength — light/medium/heavy set | $10–20 |
| Water bottle + electrolytes | Large insulated bottle + electrolyte mix packets | $15–25 |
Estimated total: $360–545
Premium Gear (~$700–1,110)
The full competitive setup.
| Item | What to Look For | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Game basketball (Size 7) | Wilson Evolution 29.5 or Spalding TF-1000 Legacy | $40–55 |
| Outdoor basketball | Durable rubber — Spalding Street or Wilson NCAA Street | $15–20 |
| Primary shoes | Top-tier — Nike LeBron, Adidas Harden Vol., UA Curry Flow | $140–200 |
| Practice shoes | Second pair in rotation — extends life of both | $80–120 |
| Shorts (×4) | Premium basketball shorts | $45–70 |
| Practice jerseys (×5) | Performance training tops and reversible jerseys | $45–70 |
| Full compression wardrobe | Multiple sets for the week — shorts, shirts, sleeves | $60–90 |
| Protective & support gear | Cup, ankle braces, knee sleeves, finger tape | $40–65 |
| Premium bag | Nike Hoops Elite or similar — full compartment system | $50–75 |
| Fitness tracker | Smartwatch — Garmin, Apple Watch, or Fitbit | $80–150 |
| Recovery tools | Foam roller + massage ball + resistance bands | $20–35 |
| Basketball return net | Solo shooting rebounder for home practice | $60–120 |
| Dribble goggles | Eyes-up training goggles | $10–15 |
Estimated total: $700–1,110
Reality check: Most high school programs provide game jerseys, warm-ups, and a team bag. Ask the coach what is provided before buying. Focus your budget on shoes, practice gear, and recovery tools.
Related pages
- Basketball Shoes Guide — the most important purchase at this level
- Weight Training — conditioning to support serious play
- High School Rules — rules at this competitive level