How to Paint a Basketball Key

Basketball was invented in 1891 by collegiate physical education instructor Dr. James Naismith. In those early days, basketball was a simple game with 13 standing rules and peach baskets for hoops. The key of the court is an important piece of the puzzle. The key is painted so to distinguish it from the rest of the court. It's used to establish where players stand while free throws are being shot. Depending on the level that you're playing, the key plays varying levels of significance. It is, however, always there.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft Rubber Squeegee
  • Paint
  • Resurfacer
  • Tape Measurer
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Instructions

  1. Grab some paint

    • 1

      Check your dimensions. While basketball courts for the different levels of play may vary in total court size, the key is usually the same. The standard key measures from the base line to the free throw line at 19 feet and it is 12 feet wide.

    • 2

      Resurface the court. If your painting on an outdoor court or on a court that has some damage, you might need to use a resurfacer to make sure the court is smooth and to delay any need for maintenance.

    • 3

      Pick your colors. If you're painting a key for a specific sports program, like a school or a professional team, you may want to paint the key the same color as whatever the school's main colors are. For example, the Chicago Bulls colors are red and white. Their key is painted red.

    • 4

      If you're painting an outdoor court, you can find certain brands of paint like MultiMate that come ready mixed with the proper amounts of sand and water. Use a soft rubber squeegee to apply the paint. If you're painting an indoor hardwood floor you can find paints like Courts Sports Inc. Gameliner Court Floor Paint. Gameliner was designed specifically for basketball floors and is used by 19 NBA teams.

    • 5

      Give the key plenty of time to dry. Dry times will vary depending on the surface of the floor.