How to Draw a Basketball
Welcome! If you have ever wondered how to draw a basketball, you are in the perfect place. This fun and simple tutorial will show you exactly how to create your own cool sports drawing in just a few minutes. It is super easy, making it a great activity for kids and beginners of all ages.
- Easy
- 10 Minutes
- Ages 4+
- Sports
- Easy Drawing
- Kids Crafts
Why This Drawing Is So Easy
We break everything down into basic shapes. Once you master the main circle, adding the curved intersecting marks is a total breeze. You will see just how easy drawing your basketball can be!
How to Draw a Basketball Step by Step
- 1Step 1 of 6
Draw a big circle
Start by drawing a large, perfectly round circle right in the middle of your drawing paper. This will be the main shape for our basketball. If you need a little help making it completely round, try gently tracing a cup or a small bowl!
Tip: Sketch lightly so you can easily erase and fix any wobbly edges.
- 2Step 2 of 6
Add a middle curving shape
Now we will add the very first detail inside your basketball. Draw a vertical curving mark straight down the center, bending slightly over to the right side. This simple curve gives the drawing a nice rounded shape rather than looking totally flat.
Tip: Imagine drawing a smiling mouth turned sideways!
- 3Step 3 of 6
Cross with a horizontal curve
Next, draw another curving mark across the middle, going all the way from the left side to the right side. Make this mark bend slightly downward. Now you are learning how to draw a basketball step by step with these incredibly easy shapes!
Tip: These intersecting marks are the main seams of your drawing.
- 4Step 4 of 6
Draw the left side curve
On the left half of your basketball, draw a wide, curved shape that looks just like a backward letter C. Start near the top edge, bend it out toward the middle, and bring it safely back down to the bottom edge.
Tip: Leave a little bit of space between this curve and the outside edge.
- 5Step 5 of 6
Draw the right side curve
Let us do the exact same thing over on the right side! Draw a regular letter C shape starting near the top right and ending near the bottom right. Your basketball is now completely drawn out and ready for the final fun coloring step.
Tip: Try to make this curve match the left one as closely as you can.
- 6Finished drawing
Add simple color
It is finally time to finish up your masterpiece! Grab a bright orange crayon or marker and color in the entire circular shape. Then, trace over all the curving marks with a dark black marker to make those classic basketball seams pop out nicely!
Tip: Use a super bright orange to make your drawing look fun and energetic.
Draw Basketball in 6 Easy Steps
Anyone can learn how to draw a basketball — no drawing experience needed.
Simple steps
Start to finish
Great for
Fun Ways to Change Your Drawing
Once you know how to draw a basketball, you can try these neat ideas to make it totally unique.
Mini Version
Draw a tiny version of your drawing to decorate the corner of a sports poster.
Spinning Trick
Draw a simple pointed finger right underneath to look like it is spinning on a hand.
Add Your Name
Write your name in bold letters inside one of the orange sections.
Easy Fixes for Beginners
Flat-Looking Shape
Make sure your inner marks curve outward instead of going straight across to keep it looking round.
Wobbly Outside Edge
If your circle looks squished, just use a round cup or lid to trace a perfect circle before adding the inside details.
Thick Outlines Too Early
Always sketch with a pencil first, then use your black marker at the very end so you do not smudge your drawing.
How to Draw Basketball: All 6 Steps at a Glance
Here is the whole basketball drawing, step by step, in one picture — save it or print it to follow along.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Draw Basketball?
Grab a pencil and follow the 6 easy steps — you can finish your basketball drawing in minutes.