9 Best Glow In The Dark Basketballs [2023 Buyer’s Guide]

Imagine this: it’s a warm summer evening, you’re hanging out with friends, and the sun is setting. You’re all itching to play a basketball game, but it gets harder to see the ball as darkness descends. That’s when the best glow in the dark basketball swoops in to save the day, transforming your night-time games like never before.

You know that feeling when you’re playing a regular game, and suddenly someone switches on the floodlights? That’s the magic I’m talking about, but now imagine it surrounding the entire ball. Trust me, nothing beats the thrill of watching that luminous orb soaring through the night sky before swooshing into the hoop.

In a hurry? Have a look at my top pick:

I remember the first time I used one of these bad boys; it was like discovering a hidden superpower I never knew I had. So, if you’re ready to level up your night-time basketball games, let me guide you through the wonders of this must-have sports accessory.

You’ll thank me later when you’re shooting hoops under the stars with a smile and a ball that refuses to fade into the darkness.

Top 9 Best Light Up Basketballs Compared 2023

How to Choose the Best Glow City in Dark Basketball

When it comes to buying the best glowing basketball, it can take time to know where to start. That’s why I’m here to help you choose the perfect ball that fits your needs and provides an enjoyable playing experience.

Age of Players

First of all, let’s talk about age of player. If you’re buying a basketball for young children, you might be worried about them struggling with a giant ball. But fear not! 

A size 5 ball is smaller and more accessible for little hands to handle, making it the perfect choice for young kids. 

On the other hand, if you’re buying for older children or adults, a standard size 7 ball is a great option.

Area of Play

Playing in well-lit outdoor areas? You don’t need a ball with a super strong glow. But if you’re playing in low-light conditions, you might be worried about losing sight of the ball. 

Choosing a ball with a bright glow will ensure you can see it no matter how dark it gets.

Durability

Obtaining a ball that endures frequent usage is imperative, particularly when purchasing a glowing basketball. You wouldn’t want to waste your hard-earned funds on a ball that will swiftly deteriorate or become damaged. Seek out a ball crafted from top-notch materials that can endure play demands.

Material

Basketballs come in a spectrum of materials, and each boasts unique advantages. While rubber provides unbeatable toughness, synthetic leather, and composite materials offer a superior grip and touch, granting players more mastery over the ball’s movements.

Size 

Basketballs come in several different sizes, including sizes 5, 6, and 7. Check out this table to see which size is best for you:

Size	Circumference (in inches)	Recommended for
Size 5	27.5	Young Children
Size 6	28.5	Women and Children
Size 7	29.5	Men and Older Children

Weight

Most standard size 7 basketballs weigh around 20 ounces. However, some balls can be heavier or lighter depending on the manufacturer and the material they are made of. 

Heavier balls can be more difficult for some players to handle, especially for younger players or those with smaller hands. Lighter balls are often easier to handle but can have a lower bounce and less control during gameplay.

Glow Intensity & Duration

The glow intensity and duration are key factors to consider when choosing a glow in the dark ball. You want a ball with a bright glow that will be easy to see in low-light conditions, and a long duration so that the glow lasts throughout your game.

Charging Mechanism

Glow basketballs that radiate in the dark can be revitalized through either ambient or synthetic luminance. Ensure to select a ball that can be reinvigorated with alacrity and effortlessly utilizing the light that is most readily accessible to you.

Price and Brand

Illuminated basketballs are an innovative way to bring excitement to your nighttime games. While shopping for one, it’s essential to consider both the cost and the quality of the ball. On the one hand, prices can range from an affordable $20 to an extravagant $100. 

A Pro Tip: Investing in a reputable brand with a solid reputation for producing high-quality products is crucial to maintain performance. Do your research, read reviews, and make an informed decision to ensure you get the best glow-in-the-dark basketball for your needs and budget.

Maintenance and Care

Basketballs are a fascinating addition to any collection, but they require proper care and maintenance to keep their luminous glow shining. While paying attention to this aspect of ownership may be tempting, following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storage will save you both time and money in the long run. 

Neglecting these simple steps can result in a ball that quickly loses its luster and requires constant attention. 

So, if you want to enjoy the beauty of your glow in the dark ball for years to come, make sure to give it the TLC it deserves!

List of Top 9 Best Glow City in Dark Basketballs

In this list, I have reviewed the pinnacle glow-in-the-dark basketballs readily accessible in the market. Crafted from premium-grade materials, these basketballs guarantee sturdiness and exceptional visibility even in dim lighting.

Whether playing a casual game with friends at the park or engaging in a competitive match, these balls will infuse fresh excitement into your game. Join me as we delve deeper and discover the ideal ball that suits your needs.

1. KWOOD Engraved Light Up Basketball

I knew it was special when I tried the KWOOD Engraved Light Up Basketball. Its unique LED lights and sentimental engraved message stand out from competitors like Spalding NBA Street Outdoor Basketball. This basketball’s quality, grip, and control make it ideal for casual players, nighttime games, and gift-giving.

Let me start by saying that the user experience is unmatched. With its full ball pebbling and deep channels, this 29.5″ basketball gives you the perfect grip and control, regardless of whether you’re an experienced or new player.

Plus, the LED lights are an absolute game-changer for night games. No more fumbling in the dark or losing sight of the ball – this baby lights up the court like a beacon of awesomeness!

This ball boasts high-quality construction, featuring a professional liner, nylon winding, wear-resistant leather layer, and a four-layer structure.

Trust me; you’ll feel the quality when dribbling and shooting hoops with this ball. It’s suitable for indoor and outdoor play on various surfaces, such as cement, wooden, and rubber floors.

The 80% nylon winding ensures optimal shape retention, while the 100% butyl padding keeps the air locked in for consistent bounce throughout the game.

With LED lights, the battery life is extended, and energy is saved since they are easy to turn on when not in use and turn off automatically when not used.

The heartfelt, engraved message on the ball makes it the perfect gift for any basketball-loving family member or friend.

Besides the pump and needles, the package includes batteries, a net bag, a cloth basketball bag, and even a pump case. You will be satisfied with this package.

2. GlowCity Glow in The Dark Basketball

GlowCity Glow in the Dark Basketball is the game-changer you’ve been waiting for! Unlike other basketballs, this ball features a unique glow in the dark design that sets it apart from its competitors, like Spalding and Wilson.

This innovative design not only adds extra excitement to your games but also makes it easier for nighttime players to see the ball, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced players alike.

As far as the user’s perspective goes, this ball is perfect for kids, teens, and adults who enjoy playing basketball anytime. It’s regulation-sized (29.5″) and has two LED lights activated by impact, providing up to 30 hours of glow time.

The ball has a sturdy, water-resistant rubber exterior, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

From my experience as a basketball player, I can attest that this ball handles just like a regular ball.

The bounce is consistent, and the material is durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular play. It’s available in various sizes to cater to different age groups and preferences.

One thing that sets this ball apart from its competitors is its durability. The LED lights are impact-activated and automatically shut off when not in use, prolonging the battery life.

I had some concerns about the battery life, but after using it for several games, I can attest that the lights last for a long time.

The ball’s bright glow can light up an entire court, making it easy to see and play even in the darkest of nights. This feature makes it perfect for evening games and will be a hit with kids and teens who want to keep playing basketball after the sun goes down.

3. NightMatch Light Up LED Basketball

Get ready to outshine the competition with NightMatch Light Up LED Basketball! Unlike other light-up basketballs, such as the Spalding NBA Glow in the Dark Basketball or the Molten FLISTATEC Light Up Basketball, this innovative ball is not just a standard basketball with lights added on; it’s made with high-quality materials that ensure a consistent and durable bounce.

The unique light-up feature makes it perfect for nighttime games, adding an exciting twist to your classic pick-up game.

First and foremost, the LED lights in basketball are genuinely a game-changer. They provide a bright and visible glow in the dark, making it possible to play basketball even after the sun goes down.

The impact-activated LEDs are built into the ball and ensure maximum visibility from a long distance, so you never have to worry about losing the ball in the dark.

Besides its water resistance, NightMatch basketballs have a great look and feel. This makes it perfect for playing outdoors in all weather conditions without worrying about damaging the ball.

Regarding performance, there is no difference between the NightMatch basketball and a regulation size 7 basketball. It has an excellent grip and is easy to handle, making it perfect for players of all levels.

The included ball pump and extra batteries also make it incredibly convenient to start playing immediately.

Its unique design and fun features make it a popular choice for birthday and holiday gifts. I especially like that it comes in different colors, so you can choose the one that best fits your style.

However, as much as I love this basketball, there is one downside that I experienced personally. When I first got the ball, I noticed it had a strange texture or feel. It took me a little time to get used to it, but I didn’t have any issues with it once I did.

4. AND1 LED Light Up Basketball

The AND1 Nitegame LED Light Up Basketball takes your game into the twilight hours, providing a unique, enjoyable experience for every basketball enthusiast. It’s a product that truly illuminates AND1’s ethos of celebrating individual style and raw athleticism.

From a user’s perspective, it’s a game changer. Imagine your dribbling skills sounding the game beat and lighting up the night! Every time the ball bounces, its innovative impact-activated internal LED lights illuminate. It doesn’t matter whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, day or night; your skills will always shine brightly.

The AND1 Nitegame basketball meets all standard regulations, with its size of 29.5 inches ensuring a familiar feel in your hands. Its easy-to-grip surface is perfect for players aged 8-12 years old, inviting the younger generation to fall in love with the sport.

However, like any product, it’s not without its quirks. Due to the batteries inside, some users reported the ball was off balance, which might affect accuracy. But let’s be honest, it’s a light-up ball. It’s all about the fun and enjoyment this novelty brings rather than being a match-grade basketball.

The AND1 Nitegame basketball’s unique selling point is undoubtedly its glow-in-the-dark feature. It is what truly distinguishes it from its competitors, lighting up the court in a way that no other ball can. It comes with an included pump, so even though it arrives deflated, you’ll be lighting up the court in no time.

To wrap it up, let’s list out the pros and cons:

5. Cipton Glow in the Dark Basketball

If you’re looking for a basketball that doesn’t just conform but transforms the game, the Cipton Glow in the Dark Basketball is your match. It’s the glowing heart of nighttime sports.

This ball is precisely the gadget you need! It’s the ideal fusion of novelty, quality, and performance. But let’s dive deeply into this product so you understand why it’s a game-changer.

Straight off, the Cipton basketball is made of premium rubber. This material ensures durability and longevity, so you can bet this ball will be around for many pick-up games, rain or shine. You won’t have to worry about wear and tear; this basketball is built to last.

The Cipton Glow in the Dark Basketball doesn’t just shine because of its performance, it literally glows. Thanks to built-in LED lights, you can keep the game going even when the sun has set. No more games cut short due to darkness; with a simple bounce, the ball illuminates, adding a whole new level of excitement to your game. From dusk till dawn, this ball stays lit.

While competitors offer standard basketballs, Cipton has gone a step further. It has brought innovation and fun to the table, giving it a significant edge. This feature also makes it stand out in the marketplace.

Now, let’s talk about its size options. Available in official and junior sizes, this ball caters to every player. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a young enthusiast, a Cipton ball is just the right fit for you.

While I love its glowing feature and premium quality, it’s worth noting that the sizes can vary. One buyer noticed a size difference in the two balls they bought. So, if you’re buying for a team, double-check the sizes.

Overall, the Cipton Glow in the Dark Basketball is a fun and reliable addition to any sports equipment collection. Its LED feature breathes life into night games, while its durable build ensures longevity. It’s the basketball of the future here today.

6. MCNICK LED Glow In The Dark Basketball

The MCNICK LED Glow in the Dark Basketball sets a new bar for outdoor basketball fun. Illuminating every dribble, pass, and dunk with a warm orange glow, this is not just a basketball—it’s a spectacle.

Imagine hitting the courts on a warm summer night. The sun’s down, but your game is just heating up. With the MCNICK LED Glow in the Dark Basketball, the excitement doesn’t stop when the lights go out. The motion-activated internal LED lights triggered by movement create a brilliant display, turning your ordinary game into an extraordinary light show.

With durable materials, this basketball can handle even toughest games. It comes with a handy air pump and removable watch batteries offering 100 hours of game time—more than enough for those prolonged, heated neighborhood championships.

The basketball is regulation 29.5″, making it perfect for high school and college games. It should be noted, however, that the ball isn’t waterproof—so don’t leave it out in the rain!

Alongside the basketball, the set features a glow-in-the-dark net. The contrasting bright green of the net against the orange glow of the ball provides a visually pleasing spectacle, spicing up your nighttime play.

While the net doesn’t glow as much as the ball, according to some users, it adds more fun to the night games.

A brilliant addition to any sports equipment collection, the MCNICK LED Glow in the Dark Basketball is an outstanding gift for fitness enthusiasts and basketball lovers. More than just a basketball, it’s an experience, an event—a magical fusion of sports and spectacle.

As an outdoor nighttime sports product, the MCNICK LED Glow in the Dark Basketball provides a unique playing experience that sets it apart from its competitors. Its bright, luminous glow and durable design make it an exciting addition to any evening sports event. Whether you’re planning a sports-themed party or just a late-night match with friends, this basketball will undoubtedly illuminate your game.

7. HoloGear Glowing Reflective Basketball

Imagine the power of capturing your court exploits not just in daylight but after sundown, too, with the HOLOGEAR Holographic Glowing Reflective Basketball. This is different from your standard basketball. It’s a game-changer, fusing technology with traditional sports gear to offer an experience unlike any other.

The ball gives off a spectacular multi-color glow when viewed through the specially crafted HoloGlasses or your smartphone’s flash. This effect is amplified with increased light, transforming a regular night game into a dazzling display. Trust me when I say this basketball is sure to steal the spotlight in any setting.

Whether you’re on a synthetic court or a cement floor, this basketball is built to impress. One feature that strikes you is the unique construction. The polyurethane leather is embossed with a patent-pending holographic reflective material. The ball bounces and maintains shape no matter the intensity of play thanks to 100% nylon windings and a robust rubber bladder.

This isn’t just about aesthetics, though. Practicality matters. The HoloGear basketball can be used for both indoor and outdoor games, offering that sweet grip every basketball player cherishes. This ball is a clear winner for someone who appreciates a solid grip.

For all you social media enthusiasts out there, prepare for an influx of likes. When photographed or filmed with flash, the glowing effects of this basketball are truly mesmerizing. Share your glowing slam dunk on Instagram or your perfect three-pointer on Snapchat. You’re bound to be the envy of your followers.

And let’s talk about the gift-giving potential. This basketball is not just for seasoned pros—beginners, intermediate players, basketball hobbyists, everyone is catered for. I can guarantee this: gifting this basketball will turn heads.

However, there’s always room for improvement. The ball is shipped deflated and requires manual inflation, which may come as a surprise. The holographic effect also demands specific conditions – it truly shines when used with HoloGlasses or in flash photos and videos. The magic isn’t as visible to the naked eye.

8. HW HOLOWIN Reflective Size 7 Basketball

The HW HOLOWIN Reflective Basketball is not just a basketball – it’s an invitation to revolutionize your game. A composite hygroscopic quality leather basketball, encased in 100% nylon windings with a durable rubber bladder, ensures a good bounce shape, whether used indoors or out.

The Slip Grip design challenges your handling abilities, honing your skills for that perfect dunk or pass. Smooth to the touch, it might not offer the traditional grip, but it certainly aids in improving your ball handling skills – and as an avid player, I appreciate a tool that pushes my abilities.

But the game-changer is its reflective design. The HoloHoops basketball, an official NBA size ball, transforms into a glowing orb in photos or videos when a camera flash is used. It’s a sight to behold, especially for those late-night gaming sessions.

And here’s something for the social media savvy – this ball is a content creator’s dream. The glowing effect in your photos or videos makes for highly shareable content. Let your Instagram, Snapchat, or any other online platform shine with the luminous captures.

Despite its numerous merits, this basketball has a few drawbacks. The glow isn’t quite visible in the twilight hours without direct lighting. Adding an LED headlamp or cap light dramatically improves the visibility, creating a radiant spectacle on the court. Moreover, the ball is a tad heavy and wears quickly when used outdoors, which can limit its lifespan.

Regardless of these caveats, the HW HOLOWIN Reflective Basketball is a unique take on traditional sports gear. It opens up new possibilities for gameplay, training, and even content creation.

9. Alkomi Glow In The Dark Basketball

The ALKOMI Glow in The Dark Basketball elevates your playtime to a whole new level, transforming every dunk or three-pointer into a luminescent spectacle. With a glow lasting up to 4 hours in the dark, you’re set for evening games long after sunset.

This basketball sets itself apart using a special material that naturally charges from sunlight. This ensures you won’t need any batteries or camera flash to light up your game, unlike many LED glow balls on the market. Just leave the ball under the sunlight, and you’re ready for a night match with a radiant twist.

Quality and durability are at the core of the ALKOMI glow in the dark basketball. It’s crafted from high-quality composite hygroscopic leather, ensuring longevity and consistent bounce. It’s an authentic NBA SIZE 7 (29.5 in), guaranteeing a game experience similar to the pros.

As an addition to the fun, it makes an excellent gift for any basketball lover. The dazzling glow effect is bound to impress everyone, from kids at a glow-in-the-dark party to a teenager showing off to their friends.

However, the glow coating seems to have a limited lifespan, wearing off after about a week of daily use. So, while it lights up your play brilliantly, you might find the glow fades a little too soon.

Despite this, the ALKOMI Glow in The Dark Basketball is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add an exciting twist to their game or give a memorable gift to a basketball lover.

Final Verdict

Basketballs that glow in the dark make the game more thrilling, infusing an element of magic into each bounce, pass, and shot. These balls bring the vibrant energy of the day into the tranquility of the night, redefining the boundaries of where and when we can play our beloved game.

Whether for a casual pickup game under the stars or a competitive match in dimmed lighting, the best glow in the dark basketballs offer both quality and visual appeal, illuminating every play with a celestial glow. Ensuring durability, performance, and an awe-inspiring aesthetic, they redefine the game and take your nocturnal basketball adventures to the next level.

Truly, these radiant game changers are a must-have for every avid hooper. Let’s hoop all night with the best glow in the dark basketballs lighting up our love for the game!

Frequently Asked Questions