In the fast-paced basketball world, where every second counts, having the right hairstyle can make all the difference.
As female athletes, we know the struggle of finding that perfect balance between practicality and style on the court.
I’ve curated 18 dynamic and creative basketball hairstyles in this article that effortlessly combine functionality with flair.
From sleek ponytails to intricate braids, these styles are designed to keep you focused on the game while allowing your unique personality to shine.
Basketball Hairstyles
1. High Braided Ponytail
The High Braided Ponytail is a stylish and practical choice for basketball players. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and braid it from the base to the ends to achieve this look.
This style keeps your hair tangle-free and minimizes movement, which can be distracting during a game.
It’s easy to do and stays in place, even during intense activity. For added style, use hair ties in your team’s colors and add a touch of shine serum for a polished finish.
2. Cornrows with Bun
Cornrows with a Bun provide the ultimate solution for keeping your hair secure on the court.
Start by creating tight cornrows along your scalp that lead to a neat bun at the back or top of your head.
Cornrows prevent flyaways and ensure every strand stays in place. The bun adds extra security, keeping hair off your neck and shoulders.
3. Low Braided Pigtails
Low Braided Pigtails offer a playful and functional hairstyle for basketball players.
Simply part your hair down the middle and braid each side into a low pigtail, securing them with elastics.
This keeps your hair from swinging around, staying off your face. The style is fun and youthful, working well with different hair textures.
4. French Braided Headband
The French Braided Headband is a classic and feminine hairstyle that keeps hair neatly away from the face, perfect for sports. Create a single French braid along your hairline like a headband, while the rest of your hair is pulled back or left loose.
This braid acts as a stylish barrier, ensuring your hair stays secure. It works well with various hair lengths and textures, offering a sleek style that doesn’t interfere with gameplay.
The French braided headband is great for those who want elegance and function, adding a sophisticated touch to a sporty look and staying put through intense games.
5. Boxer Braids
Boxer braids are perfect for keeping hair secure and stylish during sports. To get this look, make two tight braids starting at the top of your head and going all the way down to the ends.
This style stops any messy flyaways and keeps everything in place. It’s great for people with long hair, as it prevents tangles and stays neat even when you’re moving a lot.
Boxer braids not only look fierce but also add a professional touch, so you can stay focused on the game without worrying about your hair.
6. Twisted Braids into a Bun
Twisted braids wrapped into a bun offer a stylish yet secure option perfect for basketball. Start by twisting small braids and gather them into a tidy bun at the back of your head or higher up.
The twists add a unique texture and style to the practical bun. This hairstyle works well for those with longer hair, keeping everything in place during play.
It adds a hint of elegance to your sporty look. With twists giving volume and dimension, the bun helps keep hair off your neck and shoulders, ensuring comfort.
7. Mohawk Braids
Mohawk braids are for those who want a bold and edgy style while playing basketball. Create small braids down the middle of your head, resembling a mohawk, while the sides are either shaved or tightly braided.
This look keeps your hair secure even during intense movement. Ideal for players wanting a unique, attention-grabbing appearance, mohawk braids also keep hair from falling on your face, offering a clear view.
This hairstyle is both daring and practical, making sure you stand out on the court while staying functional.
8. Side Part Braids with High Ponytail
For a trendy and dynamic basketball hairstyle, try side part braids with a high ponytail. Begin by braiding one side of your head, then pull the rest into a high ponytail.
This keeps your hair in place while adding a stylish touch with its asymmetrical design. The side part braids hold snugly against your scalp, while the high ponytail allows for free movement.
Suitable for medium to long hair, this style gives you a modern and sporty look, making you feel ready to take on the game.
9. Sleek Low Bun
A sleek low bun is all about elegance and simplicity. Imagine gathering your hair into a neat bun at the nape of your neck. This style keeps everything tidy and out of sight while you play.
It’s perfect for those who love a clean look that stays put. Just add a bit of smoothing serum to manage any stray hairs, making sure your style looks polished all day.
If you have medium to long hair, this is your go-to look. It’s a timeless and professional style that keeps your hair secure without sacrificing chicness.
10. Crown Braid
A crown braid gives you a sophisticated look while keeping your hair neatly in place. Picture a braid wrapping around your head like a beautiful crown.
It’s great for longer hair and ensures nothing falls on your face or neck while you’re active.
This style adds an extra touch of femininity with its elegant look. Not only does it stay secure during play, but it also adds a fashionable flair.
11. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a fun twist on the classic ponytail. Start by tying your hair into a ponytail, then add small hair ties every few inches to create “bubbles.” This style is both playful and secure, giving your hair volume and texture.
It’s perfect if you have long hair and want something that holds its shape through active play.
You can personalize it by matching the hair ties to your team colors or choosing clear bands for a subtle look.
12. Braided Half-Up Half-Down
The braided half-up half-down style is the perfect balance of keeping hair off your face while letting it flow freely.
Start by braiding the top half of your hair from the front to the crown, securing it with an elastic.
This leaves the bottom half loose, allowing for movement and ease. The braids add structure and hold, while the loose hair adds a relaxed vibe.
13. Twisted Ponytail
A twisted ponytail combines elegance and simplicity for a stylish game-ready look. To create this, gather your hair into a ponytail and split it into two sections.
Twist each section and then wrap them around each other, securing them with an elastic band. This style gives a sleek and polished appearance, keeping your hair neat and in place.
Ideal for players with medium to long hair, it’s quick to style and effectively maintains its structure, allowing you to focus on the game without worrying about stray strands or flyaways.
14. Sleek Ponytail with Hair Wrap
The sleek ponytail with a hair wrap offers a blend of function and style. Start by pulling your hair into a high ponytail and securing it with an elastic. Take a small hair section and wrap it around the base to hide the hair tie.
This keeps your hair tight and smooth, preventing any disruptions. The hair wrap adds a touch of elegance, making the ponytail look polished.
This look is perfect for those seeking a streamlined style that is easy to create and robust enough to withstand vigorous activity.
15. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a stylish and durable choice that adds a unique braided texture. Begin by dividing your hair into two sections.
Take small strands from the outer parts of each section, crossing them over each other until you reach the end. Secure with a small elastic for a neat finish.
This braid not only looks stunning but also keeps hair neatly in place, handling physical movements with ease.
16. Curly High Ponytail
For those with naturally curly hair, the curly high ponytail is a fantastic way to show off your texture while keeping it controlled. Pull your curls into a high ponytail and secure it tightly to prevent slippage.
This style offers a bouncy and voluminous look that’s both playful and secure.
It allows your natural curls to shine while keeping hair off your face, making it a great choice for a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
17. Zig-Zag Cornrows
Zig-zag cornrows add a fun and edgy twist to the classic cornrow style, making them a standout choice for basketball players.
This look involves weaving cornrows in a zig-zag pattern across the scalp, creating an eye-catching design.
These cornrows keep your hair completely secure, preventing any loose strands from interfering with your game.
18. Double Dutch Braids with Bun
Double Dutch braids leading into a bun offer a stylish, secure, and comfortable option for intense basketball games.
Start by creating two Dutch braids from your hairline, guiding them back towards the crown.
Gather the braid ends into a tight bun for a neat finish. This look keeps hair in place while lifting it off the neck, providing both comfort and style.
Hi, I’m Ashley Miller, a wife, a busy mom, and someone who loves to share all the things that make life a little more fun and beautiful.
From easy DIY projects, delicious recipes, and chic hairstyles to nail ideas and home decor tips, I share everything I’ve learned and love.
My goal is to inspire other women to explore their creativity and make their homes even more special.
