After every NBA game, the ball used on the court holds a special place. It has been part of every point scored, every pass, and every moment of the action. However, most fans do not know what happens to that game ball once the final buzzer sounds. While some might think the ball is kept or displayed, the truth is not always that simple. Game balls can be reused, saved for special moments, or even given away under certain conditions.
Teams and the league follow certain rules about handling game balls. Each ball tells a story, but not every one becomes a keepsake. What happens next depends on the importance of the game and the people involved.
How NBA Game Balls Are Used?
NBA games use special leather basketballs that are prepared before the match. Each ball is checked to ensure its readiness. Players often prefer game-used balls because they feel softer and easier to control. Every game usually has three official balls: one main ball and two backups.
These balls are marked with a number so the league and teams can keep track of them. After the game, the ball goes back to the team’s equipment staff. If it is still in good condition, it may be used again in a future game.
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Players Are Keeping Game Balls
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Sometimes, players want to keep the game ball after a match. This often happens when a player reaches a big moment, like scoring a career-high number of points or recording their first triple-double.
When this happens, the player can ask for the game ball. The staff checks the NBA ball’s number to make sure it is the correct one. Once confirmed, the ball is given to the player as a keepsake. This makes the ball a special reminder of a proud achievement.
What Happens If The NBA Ball Is Lost?
There are times when the game ball goes missing after a game. This might happen if someone takes the ball by mistake or if the wrong ball is given away. To fix this, teams keep careful records of which ball was used by using the number printed on it. Sometimes, teams even review video footage to see where the ball went. This helps make sure the right person gets the correct ball.
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Tracking The Game NBA Balls
Each official game ball has a special number printed on it along with the season year. This number is written down by the game’s officials. This helps NBA teams, players, and the league know which ball was used in which game. It is helpful when players request balls or when someone needs to prove which ball was used during a special moment.
What Happens To Old NBA Balls?
When a ball gets too worn out or damaged, it is removed from game use. These balls are sometimes used in team practice. Other times, they are given away as gifts or donated to schools and youth programs. Even if the ball is no longer used in games, it can still bring value and joy to others.
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