The tournament is played over a period of three weeks from 1st week of March through 1st week of April. It traditionally begins on the third Thursday in March. On the first two full days of the tournament, the field of 64 teams is pared to 32. In the next two days, the field is trimmed to 16, which is called the Sweet 16. National Basketball Association This league is the product of the union of the Basketball Association of America and the National Basketball League. The American Basketball Association was created in 1967 and this actually posed a threat on the NBA s dominance. In 1976, another historical merge happened between the two groups that created a powerful lineup of teams and paved the way for the NBA to be hailed as the top professional league in the world when it comes to this sport. For ankle support, you could use an ankle brace or support which can be worn regardless of any type of shoes. A head band could also offer protection, especially from sweat dripping from your head. The sweat may get into your eyes and affect your vision when trying to shoot the ball. Wrist bands also serve the same purpose, to dry up excess sweat. The bouncing ability of the ball must only be between 49 and 54 inches when it is dropped from a 6 feet height. The National Basketball Association or the NBA has only one official ball that is manufactured by Spalding. This has the orange color, with a circumference of 29.5 inches and weighs 22 ounces. Before buying all the gear needed for playing basketball, you must determine first the real reasons why you want to engage in sport. For some, they play basketball because they want to lose weight while for others, it s because they enjoy playing with others. By determining and establishing your reason/s why you would want to play basketball, you can use these as motivations continue with it. An all-around player, on the other hand, needs shoes that have good cushioning and moderate ankle support. While fast players need shoes that are lightweight shoes that are flexibility along with moderate support and good cushioning. 2. Size of shoes. This is also a very important consideration because it will ensure one's comfort while playing basketball.