The distinct spherical objects used in the Women’s National Basketball Association and the National Basketball Association differ in circumference and weight. The former utilizes a ball with a smaller circumference and lesser weight compared to its counterpart used in the men’s professional league. As a tangible example, the NBA regulation ball measures 29.5 inches in circumference and weighs 22 ounces, while the WNBA regulation ball measures 28.5 inches in circumference and weighs 20 ounces.
This size and weight differential aims to accommodate the average hand size and physical strength differences generally observed between male and female athletes. This adjustment potentially enhances ball handling, shooting accuracy, and overall gameplay for WNBA players. Historically, the adoption of the smaller ball marked a significant adaptation to improve the flow and performance within the women’s professional game.