Basketball Safety Tips
Basketball is a way of life for millions of people. It's fun to play and great exercise, but it can be a contact sport and accidents may happen. It's important to know how to stay safe and prevent injuries.
Staying Safe & Preventing Injuries
To help prevent injuries, follow these basketball safety guidelines.
Do I Need to Wear Safety Gear to Play Basketball?
While on the court, it’s important to wear basketball safety gear like:
Mouth Guard
A mouth guard can help prevent broken teeth and mouth and tongue injuries. Some leagues require mouth guards.
Protective Eyewear
Protective eyewear can help you avoid eye injuries. If you normally wear glasses, switch to sport glasses made of plastic that won’t shatter while you play.
Basketball Sneakers
Your basketball sneakers should fit well and support you. Make sure the treads are in good shape so you’re less likely to slip.
Other Gear
An athletic supporter with a cup can help prevent injuries to the testicles. A sports bra can provide comfort and support.
How Can I Stay Safe at Practices and Games?
From warming up to following the rules of the game, these habits can help keep you safe.
Getting Ready to Play
Before starting the season, get a sports physical. Your doctor can check for any health problems and talk about sports safety. Most schools won't let athletes play unless they've had a sports physical within the past year. Plus, being in good shape can help you avoid injuries.
It’s also important to warm up and stretch before playing. Learn the rules of the game and use proper techniques — like guarding someone safely.
Playing different sports throughout the year can help prevent repetitive stress injuries (overuse injuries), which happen when someone trains too much or repeats the same motions.
Staying Safe Indoors and Outdoors
Before playing basketball, take off any jewelry because it could get pulled or caught. If you jam or sprain a finger with a ring on it, swelling could cause the ring to get stuck. And that can make it hard for the blood in your finger to flow properly.
If you feel pain or get hurt, stop playing. You’ll need to get checked by an athletic trainer, coach, doctor, or nurse before going back on the court.
Staying hydrated is also important so drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after practices and games. Take a break if you have any signs of heat illness, like painful muscle cramps, a severe headache, or dizziness. When playing basketball outdoors, protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and a hat.
Checking the Court and Fair Play
Check that the court is in good shape before you start playing. A wet court could lead to slips and falls. An outdoor court with an uneven surface or rocks could lead to a twisted ankle or other injury.
Coaches should encourage safe and fair play. Be a good sport. Respect the referees and avoid arguing with calls. If you think a player on the other team is trying to hurt you on purpose, stay calm and tell your coach and a referee, then let them handle it.
Safety in Other Sports
Safety matters whether you’re playing basketball or doing another athletic activity. To help prevent injuries in other sports, check out these articles:
Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date Reviewed: Jul 7, 2025
