A Guide to Building a Basketball Court

Why Build a Basketball Court?

Building a basketball court is a smart investment. Reasons to build a basketball court could be for personal recreation, fitness, training, or property development. A modern basketball court adds value to residential properties, provides a space for physical activity, and creates opportunities for skill development. 

The rising popularity of home sports facilities and community recreational spaces in Saudi Arabia is driving the demand for high-quality basketball court construction. With the right contractor, your project can meet professional specifications and performance standards for a long time.

Considerations Before Building a Basketball Court

Space Requirements

According to FIBA standards, a full-size basketball measures 28 by 15 meters, while a half-court requires approximately half that space. Leave at least 2 meters of buffer space around the court perimeter for player safety and smooth movement.

Location and Site Conditions

Outdoor courts should be placed on level ground with proper drainage to prevent water accumulation. The court orientation should reduce sun glare, especially during peak playing hours. Meanwhile, indoor setups require additional planning for ceiling height (minimum of 7 meters), lighting, and ventilation.

Surface Options for Basketball Court Construction

Concrete with acrylic coating: Ideal for outdoor basketball court construction due to its durability and weather-resistant properties. The acrylic finish improves grip and playing consistency.

Hardwood flooring: A preferred choice for professional indoor basketball courts because it offers excellent ball bounce, shock absorption, and performance. However, it requires climate control and regular maintenance to prevent warping and wear.

PU (polyurethane) and vinyl flooring: They’re popular choices for indoor basketball court surfaces. The cushioned layers reduce impact on joints and improve playability. They’re also easy to clean and maintain in controlled environments.

Factors to Consider

You need to consider the frequency of use, as high-traffic courts will need resilient surfaces. If the court is outdoors and exposed to extreme weather conditions, its surface must be heat- and UV-resistant. Budget and long-term maintenance needs must also be considered when planning the basketball court surface and features.

How to Build a Basketball Court

1. Site inspection and design planning: Evaluate the space, layout, and surroundings. Consider factors like proximity to parking spaces and potential obstructions like buildings or trees. Identify the specific needs depending on its usage, whether it should be indoors or outdoors, a full court or half court, and a standalone or multi-sport court.
2. Grading and leveling: Ensure the ground is properly graded and leveled to prevent water pooling. This may involve excavation, filling, and potentially the installation of drainage solutions.
3. Foundation work: Excavate the cleared area for the foundation and perimeter beams. Install formwork to define the shape and depth of the foundation and beams. Place reinforcement within the formwork.
4. Subfloor and surface installation: Install a level concrete or engineered wood subfloor, depending on the location. Add the surface material, whether an acrylic coating, or a PU or vinyl top layer, according to performance requirements.
5. Structural considerations: Maintain a minimum ceiling height of 7 meters for safe indoor play and integrate efficient lighting and ventilation systems if needed.
6. Equipment installation: Set up backboards, hoops, court boundary lines, and consider acoustic treatment for noise control.
7. Final inspection and project delivery: Conduct quality checks on surface level, hoop alignment, and court markings. Hand over the finished court with maintenance instructions.
8. Fencing and safety: Consider installing fencing or barriers to define the court area and enhance safety.