10 Best Basketball Backpacks: Reviewed, Rated & Compared

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Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the US, and it has enjoyed even more of a rise in popularity over the last decade.

Now there are over 26 million Americans who enjoy playing basketball for fun – and if you’re one of them, you should probably invest in a basketball backpack.

Thankfully, we’re here to help – in this article we will go over 10 of the best basketball backpacks you can find online.

Basketball Backpacks Compared

Image

Model

Shoe Compartment

Ball Compartment

Check Price

Under Armour UA SC30 Backpack OSFA Black

Under Armour Unisex UA SC30 Backpack

No

Yes – Interior

No products found.

Basketball Backpack With USB Charging & Headphone Port

Yes

Yes – Exterior

Under Armour SC30 Undeniable Backpack OSFA...

Under Armour Unisex SC30 Undeniable

No

Yes – Interior

Nike Hoops Elite Max Air Team 2.0 Backpack

Nike Hoops Elite Max Air Team 2.0

No

Yes – Interior

MIER Basketball Backpack Large Sports Bag for...

MIER Basketball Backpack Large Sports Bag

Yes

Yes – Exterior

Hard Work Sports Basketball Backpack with...

Hard Work Sports Basketball Backpack With Ball Compartment

Yes

Yes – Exterior

No products found.

Soccer And Basketball Backpack - Youth

Yes

Yes – Interior

KOLAKO Laptop Sports Backpack

Kolako Outdoor Travel Bag

Yes

Yes – Exterior

Athletico National Soccer Bag - Backpack for...

Athletico National Soccer Bag

Yes

Yes – Interior

No products found.

Basketball Backpack With Ball Compartment

No

Yes – Interior

Why Ballers need a basketball backpack?

A basketball backpack is a necessary piece of kit for both professional and casual players. This is because basketball requires players to bring a few large items with them, such as sneakers and a basketball. These items are essential to the game, but it’s very hard to fit them in a normal backpack.

Which is where basketball backpacks come in – and you have a lot of options to choose from!

After all, in the 70s there were only a few companies producing basketball backpacks, but now there are well over a dozen companies creating them, so you can find a wide range of different basketball backpacks (such as backpacks for children and backpacks for office workers).


best basketball backpacks

Considerations When Buying a Basketball Backpack

Here are a few things you should consider when you’re buying a new basketball backpack.

Purpose

Will you only be using your basketball backpack for basketball games, or will you also be using it for school, work or hiking trips?

If so, you may want to invest in a multipurpose backpack with a laptop sleeve and lots of space, as this means that you’ll be able to easily fit everything you need inside the bag.

Waterproofing

If you live in a rainy area and you play basketball outside you may want to think about buying a waterproof (or water-resistant) backpack.

This means that you don’t have to worry about your things getting wet if you decide to shoot some hoops in the rain or snow.

Ball compartment

If you know that you will be bringing the basketball (or a spare basketball) to the game you should look for a backpack with a ball compartment, as this means that you won’t have any problem fitting the ball inside the bag.

It’s possible to buy backpacks with both internal and external compartments.

Shoe compartment

Most basketball players carry a lot of equipment with them, including a spare pair of clothes and shoes.

If this is the case for you, you should definitely look for a backpack with a shoe compartment, but this is less of an issue for players who wear their basketball outfit all day and don’t require a change of shoes.

Storage space

How much storage space do you need? After all, players who are bringing kit, water and other items (such as a laptop) will need a bag with lots of storage space, but players who are just playing a quick game on their street won’t need much storage space at all.

Style

Clothes and bags represent our personal style, so it’s likely that you want to find a basketball backpack that fits in with your personal style.

Alternatively you may be taking the bag to work, so you may want to find a backpack that fits in with office rules and regulations.

Comfort

If you’ll be wearing the backpack for hours at a time (or walking long distances while wearing it), you should make sure that you buy a backpack with comfortable features.

For instance, padded, wide straps will be much more comfortable than tiny, thin straps that dig into your shoulders!

Durability

Basketball is a contact sport, so if you wear the backpack while you play there’s a chance it will become damaged – and even if you leave it on the side of the court, there’s still a chance the bag will get damaged if you’re outside.

For this reason it can be beneficial to invest in a backpack that’s made out of durable fabric with a reinforced base.

Weight

The weight of the backpack can also be a factor, especially if you’re buying the backpack for a young child or a teenager.

Consider how much the bag will weigh when it’s full; if it’s just holding a change of clothes it shouldn’t be too heavy, but it could be pretty heavy if it’s holding shoes, a basketball and a laptop.

Warranty

The weight of the backpack can also be a factor, especially if you’re buying the backpack for a young child or a teenager.

Consider how much the bag will weigh when it’s full; if it’s just holding a change of clothes it shouldn’t be too heavy, but it could be pretty heavy if it’s holding shoes, a basketball and a laptop.


10 Best Basketball Backpacks Reviewed

There are lots of benefits to playing basketball; various studies have found that it’s excellent for cardiovascular health, and it can even help to build bone strength.

So if you want to improve your health, basketball could be the solution – but if you want to do it right, you need the right backpack.

Thankfully we’re here to help; here are 10 of the best basketball backpacks reviewed and compared, so you can work out which backpack is best suited to your needs and your budget.

1. Under Armour Unisex UA SC30 Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 5.9 X 10.2 X 15 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = No
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Interior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 15 Inch
  • Warranty = No

The Under Armour Backpack is one of the best basketball bags on the market. This is because the backpack is very well made.

It’s made from a water-resistant fabric, and it also has abrasion resistant properties, so you can leave it on the side of the court without worrying about it getting damaged. So it’s perfect for players who love to play outside!

The Under Armour backpack is also a backpack with a ball compartment, so it’s very easy to store a basketball inside – and the pocket is very secure, so the ball won’t move around when you’re wearing the bag.

The design itself is very simple and minimalist, so it will match a wide range of styles. This backpack is available in three different colours; black, blue and gray.

All of the designs are fairly similar, but the grey design does have a camo feel to it, so it’s perfect for outdoor adventures as well as basketball games.

Finally the backpack has an excellent external organisation system; there are lots of differently sized pockets to hold different things, including a pocket for valuables and a pocket that could hold a medium sized water bottle.

Pros

  • Water-resistant
  • Abrasion-resistant
  • Affordable

Cons

  • No shoe compartment
  • Only a few designs to choose from

2. Basketball Backpack with USB Charging Port and Headphone Port

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Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 11.8 × 5.9 × 18.9 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = Yes
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Exterior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 15.6 Inches
  • Warranty = No

If you’re looking for cheap basketball backpacks that still have a ball compartment, this could be the backpack for you.

This is because the bag is very affordable, but it still has lots of excellent features for you to take advantage of. There’s an exterior ball pocket that can easily hold a basketball or a soccer ball, and there’s even a laptop sleeve inside.

And that isn’t all; this is also a basketball backpack with shoe compartment, so there’s lots of room for all of your gear inside! So it’s perfect for adults – but it’s quite large, so it isn’t really suited to young children.

Another good thing about this backpack is the design; it may be an affordable backpack, but it’s still very stylish!

The backpack has a sleek, smooth design that will add a fashionable edge to any outfit, and the mesh pocket still looks great – even when there isn’t a basketball inside. The material is also very durable.

One of the only downsides to this backpack is that it’s only available in two colors; gray and black. However, both colors are very versatile, so they will work with nearly any outfit.

Pros

  • Spacious interior
  • Ball compartment
  • Shoe compartment

Cons

  • Too large for children
  • Not suited to people who only use the bag for basketball games

3. Under Armour Unisex SC30 Undeniable Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 11.8 X 9.1 X 19.5 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = No
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Interior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes - 15 Inches
  • Warranty = No

If you’re looking for a basketball backpack that has everything you need, you may be interested in this backpack.

This is because this durable backpack comes from Stephen Curry's SC30 Collection, so you can be sure that these backpacks are seriously elite basketball bags!

And the bag comes with lots of special features; it has a water-resistant finish, adjustable shoulder straps, a durable bottom panel, and added foam inserts to make sure everything in the bag is secure and dry.

And this back isn’t just designed for basketball; it also has a fleece-lined laptop sleeve that can hold a 15-inch laptop. The fleece lining will also help to protect your laptop as you travel, so you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged.

So if you’re looking for basketball bookbags that can be used for work as well as sport, this could be the ideal bag for you.

The backpack has a retro design that will appeal to anyone who loves vintage style, and it’s available in six different colors; Baja, black, red, blue, gray and black and white. So you should have no problem finding a color that suits your style!

Pros

  • Designed by Stephen Curry
  • Foam inserts to keep everything safe and secure
  • Water-resistant

Cons

  • Quite large
  • Designed for work and sport (rather than just sport)

4. Nike Hoops Elite Max Air Team 2.0 Backpack

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 13 X 9.1 X 21.1 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = No
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Interior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes - 15 Inches
  • Warranty = No

This Nike basketball bag is made with a unique zip system that makes it easy to get into your backpack from any angle. This is very convenient, as it means that you don’t actually have to take the bag off to get inside!

And that isn’t all; this is one of the Nike basketball bookbags, so there’s enough room inside to store both a basketball and a laptop safely (and there is even enough room for a spare change of clothes!). This means that it is ideal for college students and office workers who like to shoot some hoops once their work is complete.

This backpack is also super stylish; it has an ultra-modern design with a white pattern down the front, and all of the external pockets are partially hidden for a minimalist look.

So if you don’t want to compromise your style when you are playing basketball, this could be the backpack for you.

Pros

  • Unique, useful zip system
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Laptop sleeve

Cons

  • No shoe compartment
  • No warranty

5. Mier Basketball Backpack Large Sports Bag

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 12.6 X 9.8 X 19.7 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = Yes
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Exterior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 17 Inches
  • Warranty = No

The Mier backpack is one of the best basketball backpacks for players. This is because the backpack has an impressive 40 liter capacity, so you can easily fit everything you need inside.

This includes a spacious ball compartment that can hold a basketball, soccer ball or volleyball, as well as lots of large pockets that can be used to store clothes, shoes and water.

The backpack also has lots of external pockets, including a large pouch that could easily be used to hold a tablet. So if you’re looking for a basketball gym bag that can also be used at the office, this could be the bag for you!

However, it’s important to note that this bag is very large, so it probably isn’t ideal for everyday use. Instead, it’s best suited to people who regularly play basketball (such as the coach of a team).

Pros

  • Tablet pocket
  • 40 liter capacity
  • High quality zips

Cons

  • No warranty
  • Not as affordable as other bags on the list

6. Hard Work Sports Basketball Backpack with Ball Compartment

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 20 X 13 X 7.5 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = Yes
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Exterior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 15 Inch
  • Warranty = Yes – Lifetime

If you want to find cool basketball backpacks that are durable and affordable, you may like the Hard Work Sports basketball bag backpack.

This is because the backpack has everything you need for a basketball game, including a secure front mesh pocket that can be used to store a full sized basketball and a large interior pocket that can be used to store dirty clothes and shoes.

And that isn’t all; this backpack also comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you can be sure that is it made from durable materials! So if you want a backpack that will last for years to come, this could be the backpack for you.

The bag has a fairly masculine design, and it’s only available in black. However the black design is quite stylish; it has a white rim that gives the bag a modern feel, as well as unique black zippers.

Pros

  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Exterior ball pocket
  • Good value

Cons

  • Not very large
  • Simple design

7. Soccer and Basketball Backpack - Youth Kids Ages 6 and Up

No products found.

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 18 X 12 X 10 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = Yes
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Interior
  • Laptop Sleeve = No
  • Warranty = No

If you want to find basketball backpacks for school for your child, you may like this backpack. This is because it’s the right sized backpack for young players; it’s spacious and roomy, but it isn’t too deep so it wont feel bulky to wear.

The backpack also makes it easy for kids to stay organized, as there are lots of different pockets for different items (there’s a pocket for snacks, a pocket for a water bottle and a pocket for shin guards).

It’s also made from a durable, water resistant material, so it won’t stain if it gets spilled on. So these basketball bags are perfect for children!

The bag is available in a selection of fun primary colors, including red, yellow and blue (it’s also available in plain black). So you may be able to buy the backpack in your child’s favorite color!

Pros

  • Ideal for children
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Lots of pockets

Cons

  • No laptop pocket
  • No tablet pocket

8. Kolako Outdoor Travel Bag with Basketball Net Headphone Port and USB Ports

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 11.8 X 18.9 X 5.9 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = Yes
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Exterior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 15.6 Inches
  • Warranty = No

The Kolako Outdoor Bag is a travel backpack that holds basketball, so it’s ideal for both travelling and basketball games. In fact, this backpack has a lot of cool, unique features; it has both headphone and USB ports, so you can charge your devices as you travel!

This is very handy, but it doesn’t mean that the bag is a tech bag; on the outside of the bag is a secure net that will safely hold a basketball.

So if you’re a busy person who needs to carry a laptop, a laptop charger, a phone charger and a basketball with them, you could benefit from investing in this basketball backpack with ball holder.

After all, it doesn’t just mean that you can work on the go; you can also charge your devices as you go, so you don’t have to worry about your laptop dying while you’re working.

Pros

  • USB port
  • Headphone port
  • Lots of space

Cons

  • Quite large
  • Not suited to people who just want a simple basketball backpack

9. Athletico National Soccer Bag

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 1.52 Pounds
  • Shoe Compartment = Yes
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Interior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 15 Inches
  • Warranty = Yes – 1 Month

If you want to buy Nike basketball backpacks but you don’t have the budget, you may like the Athletico National Soccer bag. This is because the backpack has a similar sleek design to nike backpacks, but it is much more affordable!

Sure, the bag is designed for soccer, but the ball pocket can easily be used to hold a basketball inside. So while it may not be the standard basketball backpack with ball holder, it still does the job perfectly – and it has lots of pockets that can be used to hold basketball equipment.

One of the best things about this backpack is the shoe compartment; it’s external, so it’s very easy to put dirty shoes in the bag without getting anything else dirty.

And that isn’t all; the backpack also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not happy with it you should have no problem returning it.

Pros

  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
  • Interior ball pocket
  • Sleek design

Cons

  • Designed for soccer
  • Not ideal for children

10. Basketball Backpack with Ball Compartment

No products found.

Quick Look - Bag Features
  • Capacity = 11.5 X 6.3 X 22 Inches
  • Shoe Compartment = No
  • Ball Compartment = Yes – Interior
  • Laptop Sleeve = Yes – 17 Inches
  • Warranty = Yes – 1 Year

If you want to find basketball team backpacks that can be used by the whole team, you may like this bag. It has an impressive 26 liter capacity, and it’s made from water-resistant polyester, so you can put it down courtside without worry about the bag getting damaged.

The bag is so perfect for sporting events; it has an attachable boot bag that can be used to hold sneakers and dirty clothes, as well as over 6 pockets that can be used to store water bottles and protein snacks.

So if you want to make sure that the whole basketball team is prepared, this backpack is an excellent option!

If you have a very minimalist style and you hate accessories, it’s likely that you will enjoy the ultra-minimalist design of this bag; all of the external pockets are partially hidden, and the zippers are also partially hidden.

Pros

  • One year warranty
  • Anti-theft hidden pockets
  • Durable zips

Cons

  • No internal shoe compartment
  • Some pockets hard to access

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can a basketball backpack be used as a school bag?

Yes, you can use a basketball backpack as a school bag if you play basketball during school. This is because there are lots of multipurpose basketball bags that also come with pockets for books and laptops.

However, this isn’t the best option if your child doesn’t also play basketball, as the basketball pocket is very big!

How long will a basketball backpack last?

A durable basketball bag will last for years or even decades if it’s treated properly.

Can these bags be used for travel?

Some basketball bags can be used for travel, but others can’t be used as they’re too big. We don’t advise traveling with a pumped up basketball as it usually against airlines regulations.

Do I need to go with a Nike basketball backpack?

No, there are lots of other brands that produce high quality backpacks. However Nike do create very durable designs, so they’re definitely worth considering!

What other gear should I consider when playing basketball?

You may also need to pack shoes, water and a change of clothes.

What’s the price range of these backpacks?

Basketball backpacks can range in price; it’s possible to buy affordable designs for around $35, but they can go up to over $100.


Conclusion

If you play basketball regularly you’ll benefit from owning a basketball backpack, especially if you own your own ball.

This is because it’s very difficult to fit a basketball inside a normal backpack, and it isn’t very convenient carrying the ball around; after all, if you put it down for a minute it’s very likely that it will roll away!

So if you play regularly, make your life more convenient by investing in a durable basketball backpack.

  • Updated April 16, 2021