Basketball equipment has evolved greatly since the sport's humble beginning. Basketball nets, in particular, are available in various colors, sizes and materials. However, if you want to play as officially as possible, you might want to use a net designed according to the strict specifications set by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, National Basketball Association and Women's National Basketball Association. The net specifications vary slightly among the leagues.
History
Basketball equipment looked much different in 1891 than it does today. While Canadian Dr. James Naismith was teaching a physical education class at the international YMCA training school in Springfield, Massachusetts, he was challenged to create a new indoor sports activity. Using 13 rules and combining concepts for several existing sports, Naismith created the game known today as basketball. The first ball was a soccer ball. The first hoop, a far cry from the hoops used today, did not have a net. In fact, the first hoop was a peach basket hung 10 feet on the wall.
NCAA
According to the NCAA's official rules, the net should be a white cord, 12 mesh net. It should be 15 to 18 inches in length, suspended from beneath the rim. The rim should not be more than 5/8 of an inch in diameter, with possible small-gauge loops on the under-edge or a smaller ring located directly under the rim for attaching a 12 mesh net. The cord of each net should not be less than 120 thread or more than 144 thread twine, or plastic material of similar dimensions. The net should be constructed to check the ball as it goes through.
NBA And WNBA
According to the NBA and WNBA official rules, each basket should have an approved pressure-release safety rim 18 inches in inside diameter with a white cord net 15 to 18 inches in length. Slightly different from the NCAA, the cord of the net should not be less than 30 thread or more than 120 thread. The net should be constructed to check the ball as it goes through.
Warning
Metal chain nets are often used for outdoor hoops. In general, they last longer because they are more durable and weather-resistant. However, using metal chain nets can be risky. It is easier to cut or injure your fingers and hands on a metal chain net than on a nylon one. In fact, some states, including Massachusetts, have banned metal chain basketball nets in public parks, playgrounds and recreation centers due to reported injuries.
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