How Basketball Courts Are Made

A basketball court may appear to be merely a shiny floor marked with lines and hoops; however, constructing one requires meticulous planning and skilled craftsmanship. Every aspect of the court is specifically designed to ensure that players can move safely and that the ball rebounds correctly.

Starting with the Foundation

The process begins with creating a solid foundation. Most indoor basketball courts are constructed on a layer of concrete. Workers meticulously check that the concrete is completely flat and level. If the surface is uneven, it will cause the ball to bounce inaccurately, and players could be at risk of injury.

Before laying down the floor, workers examine the surface for moisture and cracks. This precaution helps to prevent damage later on.

Building the Wooden Floor

Next, it is time to install the hardwood floor. Most courts utilize maple wood because it is both durable and smooth. Maple wood also ensures that the basketball bounces uniformly.

However, the wood is not placed directly on the concrete. Builders install layers of padding and support beneath it. These layers function like shock absorbers, providing protection for players’ knees and ankles during jumps and landings.

Workers skillfully position long wooden boards next to one another to cover the entire court.

Sanding and Painting

Once the boards are secured, large machines sand the surface until it achieves a perfectly smooth finish. Following this, a protective sealant is applied to safeguard the wood from sweat and dirt.

After the seal dries, painters measure and meticulously paint the court lines. They carefully add the center circle, free-throw lanes, sidelines, and the three-point arc. Many courts also prominently feature a team logo at the center.

The Final Touches

Several coats of clear finish are applied over the paint to protect the floor and give it a glossy shine. The court must then dry for several days before it can be utilized.

Finally, workers install hoops that are precisely 10 feet high, along with padding for added safety.

Once everything is complete, the court is ready for games!