At Future Stars Sports Academy, everything we do is intentional—especially when it comes to the equipment we use with young athletes. From the size of the basketball to the height of the hoop, our goal is simple: help kids learn the game the right way while building confidence and having fun.
Two of the most important tools we bring to every session are junior-size basketballs and our removable, lowered hoop system. Here’s why they make such a big difference.
Size 5 Basketballs: Built for Young Hands
We use Size 5 (Junior 27.5”) basketballs during our sessions with younger players.
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Why size matters
Standard adult basketballs are simply too large and heavy for young children. When kids use equipment that doesn’t fit them, it often leads to:
Poor shooting mechanics
Frustration and fatigue
Bad habits that are hard to break later
Benefits of Size 5 basketballs
Easier to grip, dribble, pass, and shoot
Encourages proper hand placement and follow-through
Builds confidence as kids experience more success
Reduces strain on growing wrists and arms
By using the correct ball size, we allow players to focus on skill development, not fighting the equipment.
Lowered Hoops: Turning Learning Into Success
One of our most impactful tools is our removable lowered hoop attachment.
How it works
Attaches securely to a standard 10-foot basketball hoop
Lowers the rim down to 6 feet
Can be installed and removed quickly at any gym or court
Why we lower the hoop
Young players simply aren’t physically ready to shoot on a 10-foot rim. When hoops are too high, kids are forced to:
Throw the ball instead of shooting properly
Use incorrect form
Get discouraged after repeated misses
Lowering the hoop allows kids to:
Shoot with proper technique
Use correct arc and follow-through
Experience the joy of making baskets
Build confidence and motivation
Success matters—especially at a young age.
Building Skills the Right Way (From Day One)
At Future Stars, we believe kids should learn basketball fundamentals the right way from the very beginning. Using age-appropriate equipment helps ensure:
Better long-term skill development
Increased confidence and enjoyment
A positive relationship with the game
As players grow stronger and more skilled, we gradually transition them to higher rims and larger basketballs—making the progression feel natural, not overwhelming.
More Than Just Basketball
These equipment choices align with our broader mission: teaching sports alongside our Lessons of Life values—confidence, effort, resilience, and growth. When kids feel successful, they’re more engaged, more willing to try, and more excited to come back each week.
That’s how development really happens.
Want to see the difference for yourself?
Join us at an upcoming session and watch how the right equipment transforms the learning experience—for both players and parents alike.
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