Basketball Court Size in Feet: Dimensions, Markings, and NBA, NCAA & FIBA Comparison Guide

The size of a basketball court isn’t one-size-fits-all. While the NBA (and NCAA) uses a standard court of 94 feet by 50 feet, international competitions under FIBA rules use a slightly smaller court at 91.86 feet by 49.21 feet. Despite these small differences, certain elements like the hoop height (10 feet) remain consistent across all levels of competition. In addition to size, official court markings — including the free-throw line, three-point arc, center circle, and lane — play a crucial role in how the game is played and officiated. 

Standard Court Dimensions: NBA vs. FIBA vs. NCAA

NBA & NCAA Court Size

In the NBA — the highest professional level in the United States — and in NCAA college basketball, the regulation court measures 94 feet long and 50 feet wide. This provides a playing surface of roughly 4,700 square feet, giving players space for fast breaks, set plays, and defensive strategies. 

FIBA (International) Court Size

International basketball, governed by FIBA, uses a slightly smaller court. The official FIBA court dimensions are 91.86 feet long by 49.21 feet wide, which equates to approximately 4,520 square feet of playing surface. These dimensions are used in global competitions such as the Olympics and World Cup. 

Although the difference between FIBA and NBA/NCAA courts may seem minor, that extra few feet can affect spacing, transition play, and defensive positioning, particularly in elite competition. 
Key Court Markings and Their Foot Measurements

Beyond total court size, the placement of lines and zones defines where points are scored and what actions players can take.

Hoop Height and Center Circle

All regulation courts — whether NBA, NCAA, or FIBA — feature a basket (hoop) height of 10 feet from the playing surface. The center circle used for the starting jump ball is also similar in size, roughly 12 feet in diameter on NBA/NCAA courts and just under that on FIBA courts. 

Free-Throw Line

The free-throw line from the front of the backboard is universally 15 feet, making this a consistent distance players must master for foul shots regardless of competition level. 
Three-Point Line Distances

One of the most recognizable differences in court markings is the three-point line:
●NBA: 23 feet 9 inches at the arc, 22 feet in the corners.
●FIBA: About 22.15 feet from the basket at the top of the arc.

These variations influence spacing and shot selection during live games. 

The Key (Free-Throw Lane)
Underneath each basket is the key — also called the lane or paint:

●NBA key width: 16 feet wide.
●FIBA key width: Approximately 16.08 feet.

This area is critical for post play, rebounding, and defensive strategies. 

Comparing Markings: NBA, NCAA & FIBA

Here’s how the main court measurements differ across the biggest governing bodies:

Feature | NBA / NCAA | FIBAFeature | NBA / NCAA | FIBA
Court Length | 94 ft | 91.86 ftCourt Width  | 50 ft | 49.21 ft
Basket Height | 10 ft | 10 ftFree-Throw Line | 15 ft | 15 ft
Three-Point Line |23 ft 9 in | 22.15 ftKey Width | 16 ft | 16.08 ft

These differences may appear small, but they shape how offenses and defenses operate at each level, affecting spacing, pace, and tactical decisions on the court. 

Why Dimensions Matter

Accurate court size and markings are essential for fair play, athlete safety, and strategic depth. Whether designing a professional arena, a school gym, or a community court, adhering to official standards ensures players can compete consistently and develop skills that translate across levels — from local pickup games to international competition. If you’d like, I can also break down youth and high-school basketball court sizes and how they differ from professional standards