Youth Basketball Equipment and Court Rules by Age

In youth basketball, the equipment and the playing space grow with the player. Canada Basketball's Youth Rules Guidelines use smaller balls, lower baskets and smaller courts for younger age groups, then move toward the conventional game as players develop.

The basket rises from 8 feet at U7–U8 to 9 feet at U9–U10 and 10 feet from U11–U12 onward. Players use a Size 5 basketball through U10 and a Size 6 at U11–U12. At U13–U14, the recommended ball size differs for girls and boys.

The court changes too. U7–U8 plays on a half court or cross court, and full-court basketball arrives with competitive U11–U12. The 3-point line isn't used until U11–U12, and the guidelines list different free-throw distances for younger and older players.

Each guide below covers one piece of equipment or court marking, age group by age group.