"Nothing but Net": 10 Gifts for Kids Who Love Basketball

gifts for kids who love basketball guide
water color ai painting kids who love basketball


In this blog post, I delve into the world of gifts that will ignite the spark within young basketball lovers. Whether you're a parent, relative, or mentor searching for the perfect gift or seeking ways to encourage their hoop dreams, grab a seat and discover some really cool basketball gifts.

How I choose:

Shopping for gifts can be overwhelming with all the choices, especially if you’ve waited until the last minute. (no judgment here)

I love curating gift ideas for people just like you to make it easy, and hopefully fun! I read hundreds and hundreds of online reviews to come up with the 10 best ideas. My final list is decided based on unique ability, customer satisfaction, number of 5-star reviews, and price. I’m confident that there’s something perfect on this basketball-themed gifts list that will bring a smile to their face. Enjoy.

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Glow City Ball

GlowCity Glow in The Dark Basketball for Teen Boy - Glowing Red BasketBall, Light Up LED Toy for Night Ball Games

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Why it’s on the list:

Get ready to take their game to a whole new level of excitement with one of the best basketball gifts!

Designed to captivate kids, teens, and the whole family, this Glow basketball will bring hours of entertainment to your favorite player's nighttime sessions.

Imagine the thrill of shooting hoops under the moonlight, as the ball lights up with every dribble and bounce, creating an electrifying experience for basketball players of all ages.

Each package comes with clear instructions and pre-installed batteries, so they'll be able to get straight to the action.

Plus, there are even some extra batteries for added convenience.

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Please note: They'll need to inflate the ball and the pump isn't included. 

You can get this Ball Pump as an add-on if they don't already have one.  They’ll love this unique gift.

The Best Part: It’s impact activated- so it stays lit while in play and shuts off when not bounced.

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • My son had the soccer ball and I got this and now my husband wants one too!
  • The kids love playing at night with this ball
  • Grandkids love it so much will probably need another one

Cons:

  • I was disappointed with the packaging
  • It’s not as bright as the pictures
  • It doesn’t come inflated

Indoor Mini Hoop

Indoor Mini Basketball Hoop Set with 3 Balls for Kids and Adult

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Why it’s on the list:

This exceptional gift is designed to bring the joy of basketball right into the comfort of your home, making it a great addition for kids who love the game.

Unlike vertical hoop setups, this compact design takes up minimal space, making it suitable for any room in the house. From bedrooms and basements to dorms and classrooms, you can install it effortlessly wherever you desire.

It's a great gift idea for basketball enthusiasts of all ages, allowing them to practice their skills whenever they want.

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Please note: make sure the width of your door is within the accommodated size of 2.17" for the hook to fit properly.

The Best Part: Can easily go from an indoor hoop to an outdoor hoop

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • I wish I bought it sooner at the beginning of winter kids have played with it so much
  • My kids love it and play all the time
  • He hasn’t stopped playing

Cons:

  • For the price, I expected better quality
  • The backboard had the wrong size holes drilled
  • I guess my son was too aggressive it broke

Arcade Game

BEST KID BALL Arcade Basketball Hoop for Kids - Shootout Game Set Indoor Sports Toy

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Why it’s on the list:

This arcade-style basketball hoop guarantees limitless hours of fun for everyone in the family.

Whether it's a playdate with friends or a bonding session with your loved ones, this indoor sports toy is a must-have addition to your basement, game room, or garage, and it's the perfect size for toddlers to try their hand-eye coordination.

This arcade-style basketball hoop makes an ideal gift for kids and toddlers on special occasions such as children's parties, birthdays, or Christmas.

It  includes two additional basketballs and an air pump

So if you want to bring the thrill of the arcade home and create unforgettable moments of fun and laughter for your young basketball player, this is the perfect choice.

The Best Part: toddlers and older kids can enjoy themselves together (mostly the toddlers will enjoy that the older kids are playing, not necessarily the other way around 😄)

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • My kids love it
  • Great for 3-5-year-olds
  • My 3-year-old wants it outside during the day and inside at night

Cons:

  • Smaller than I thought
  • Was missing a part and I had to improvise to put it together
  • Make sure to read the dimensions because my 6-year-old was too tall to actually make a basket. He was able to just put the ball in.

Blanket

Personalized Custom Basketball Fleece and Sherpa Throw Blanket for Kids Youth BasketBall Indoor Outdoor Blankets

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Why it’s on the list:

A personalized gift shows how thoughtful you are and the effort you put in to create such a unique gift.

And this blanket is a  warm and cozy Must-Have for every Basketball enthusiast. It's versatile, portable, and provides the ultimate warmth and comfort wherever they decide to take it.

It's also a great option and a fun way of adding basketball-themed decor to their room without going overboard with curtains and wallpaper.

The Best Part: I’m always a fan of personalized gifts, especially for kids

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • This is super cute
  • My nephew loved how soft it was and the basketball was a bonus
  • My son loves it and especially how big his name is

Cons:

  • A little thin
  • Lint knots are everywhere
  • It has an odd smell

Who is Michael Jordan Book

Who Is Michael Jordan? (Who Was?) Paperback

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Why it’s on the list:

It's the perfect book for a young NBA fan!

These books for kids are simply amazing. They offer a non-boring way to learn about inspiring individuals, and Michael Jordan is no exception.

They’ll meet the man who revolutionized the game of basketball forever, from his famous reverse lay-ups to jaw-dropping jump shots, this book brings to life the remarkable journey of a true sports icon.

The Best Part: If they like this, there are other basketball books in the collection so why not get a bundle?

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • Very well written and has interesting facts about the origin of NBA
  • Who is are a great series for young readers
  • It’s important to teach kids about the older players (yikes this made me feel ancient)

Cons:

  • Cover came ripped
  • Not for younger than 8
  • Could use some more detail

Street Basketball

Spalding Outdoor Basketballs, Performance Rubber Cover Stands up to Asphalt or Concrete

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Why it’s on the list:

This basketball is designed to withstand the intensity of summer tournaments and action-packed Saturdays at the park.

They’ll be thrilled to either head to the court, (or driveway) and enjoy hours of fun, with their brand new basketball!

Now they can showcase their skills, make jaw-dropping moves, sink endless free throws, and embrace the spirit of street ball with a basketball that can handle the asphalt and concrete playgrounds like a champ.

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Please note: I can't guarantee they will be doing all these amazing moves because of this ball

The Best Part: It comes in multiple colors and sizes

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • My daughter loves this ball- she especially loves the color combination
  • My daughter is a baller and has 3 of these
  • Great outdoor ball and came inflated

Cons:

  • Came flat
  • The grip on 4 of the panels is terrible
  • Doesn’t hold air very well

Pool Hoops

GoSports Splash Hoop 360 Floating Pool Basketball Game 

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Why it’s on the list:

It's all about summertime fun and unforgettable experiences!

Imagine the joy on their faces as they beat the (imaginary) buzzer and make epic shots while cooling off in the pool, with this portable basketball hoop.

With the Splash Hoop 360, they'll dive into a world of friendly competitions, and refreshing splashes, which is the absolute best way to spend a summer day.

Plus, setting it up is a breeze! No need to wait around or search for tools - this hoop assembles in seconds, allowing the fun to start right away.

You'll be giving the gift of summer fun, laughter, and memories.

The Best Part: No tools are required for assembly

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • This has been the perfect summer toy
  • Kept my grandkids busy for hours
  • Pleasantly surprised by how good the quality was

Cons:

  • The pump didn’t work
  • It tips over too much
  • Only came with one ball

Basketball Video Game

NBA 2K23 - Answer the Call of Basketball Greatness!

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Why it’s on the list:

The reality is sometimes kids just don’t want to play outside, or they're stuck inside because of the snow.

A basketball video game could be one of the best basketball gift ideas for times like these.

And in NBA 2K23, there are no limits to the game. They can collect and assemble a dream team of legendary players from any era from their favorite NBA team and unleash their full potential on the court.

They’ll experience the thrill of the game like never before, with era-specific visuals of Michael Jordan’s incredible career.

The Best Part: it comes for most game players

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • My son loves basketball and video games and this gift was perfect
  • Seems very more real and fluid than previous versions
  • Best basketball game I ever played

Cons:

  • The book was missing
  • I deducted a star for the cost
  • This game is terrible like every year

Over Door Hamper

Bundaloo Slam Dunk Basketball Hamper - Over The Door 2 In 1 Hanging Basketball Hoop Or Laundry Hamper

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Why it’s on the list:

The Slam Dunk Basketball Hamper brings a whole lot of fun to the task of tidying up! Say goodbye to the days of boring laundry routines and welcome a fun experience for kids.

Your kids will sharpen their shooting skills while independently keeping their room clean. It's one of the best gifts for teaching the skill of picking up after yourself.

Say goodbye to messy and cluttered rooms filled with smelly clothes.

The Best Part: clean rooms

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • My son is having fun keeping his room clean
  • My son loves this
  • This was a great gift for my basketball-loving 6 year old

Cons:

  • I was sent the wrong pieces
  • The string on the bottom should be velcro or something else
  • This product will ruin your door

Basketball Bracelet

Product Name Sportybella Basketball Bracelet

Why it’s on the list:

It's more than just a bracelet; it's a symbol of their passion for the game, making it a great basketball gift.

The bracelet features a black braided cord woven together with a basketball charm, giving it a sporty yet fashionable vibe.

Whether it's for a friend, daughter, son, or teammate, this bracelet is sure to bring a smile to their face.

The Best Part: For boys and girls and comes in a lot of different colors

From Reviews:

Pros:

  • Got my for my grandson in his team colors and he loves it
  • Granddaughter said it was her favorite birthday gift
  • Super cute and it’s adjustable

Cons:

  • It’s cute but overpriced
  • The metal part rusted
  • The basketball is just a flat piece of metal, not a 3d charm

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I encourage my child's passion for basketball?

 There are various ways to nurture your child's love for basketball, such as enrolling them in basketball camps, joining a youth league, or providing them with basketball-themed books and movies.

Are there any educational resources available to enhance basketball skills?

 Yes, there are numerous online tutorials, instructional videos, and books that can help kids improve their basketball skills, from dribbling and shooting to game strategies and teamwork.

Are there any age-appropriate basketball-related games or toys for younger kids?

 Yes, you can find mini basketball hoops, basketball-themed board games, and interactive basketball video games designed specifically for younger children.

How can I make basketball practice more enjoyable for my child?

You can make practice sessions fun by incorporating challenges, setting goals, playing basketball-related games, or organizing friendly competitions with their friends or siblings.

Final Thoughts

From epic arcade basketball games that'll turn their basement into a mini stadium, to personalized blankets that let them cozy up with their favorite sport, there's something here for every young hoop lover. And how about that floating pool basketball game? They can splash and shoot hoops at the same time—talk about the ultimate summer fun! Trust me, these gifts are sure to make them jump with joy and take their basketball obsession to a whole new level. So go ahead and surprise them with one of these gems. You'll be their MVP, no doubt!

Thanks for reading and Happy Shopping!

Stacy