Net (basketball)

Typical basketball net hanging from a rim

A basketball net is an open-meshed, typically corded or nylon structure that hangs from the rim of a basketball hoop, allowing the ball to pass through while helping to visually and audibly confirm a successful shot. The basketball net was first introduced in 1893, but it wasn't until 1912 that the net was opened at the bottom to allowing the basketball to fall through. ^[1]

FIBA's Technical Specifications

The nets must be constructed using white cord and shall adhere to the following requirements: ^[2]

• Suspension: They shall be hung from the rings.
• Functionality: Their design must ensure the ball is momentarily delayed as it passes through the basket.
• Length: They shall measure a minimum of 400 millimetres (16 in) and a maximum of 450 millimetres (18 in).
• Attachment: Each net shall incorporate 12 loops for secure fastening to the ring.

Upper Section Design

The upper portion of the net shall exhibit semi-rigid properties to mitigate the following: ^[2]

• Rebound Prevention: The net must not flip upward over or through the ring, which could lead to potential entanglement.
• Ball Retention: The net must neither trap the ball nor cause it to rebound out of the basket.

Citations

1. "History of The Basketball Hoop | huupe". huupe - Official Website. 2023-02-16. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
2. FIBA, 2024 Basketball Equipment, 10.

Bibliography

• FIBA (Fédération Internationale de Basketball Amateur). 2024. Official Basketball Rules 2024: Basketball Equipment . Approved by FIBA Central Board. PDF.