When it comes to playing basketball, having the right hairstyle is more than just about looking good — it’s about practicality and comfort.
The fast-paced nature of the game means your hair needs to be securely styled to keep it out of your face and off your mind.
Whether you have curly, straight, or textured hair, the right basketball hairstyles can keep you feeling confident and ready to play.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of hairstyle ideas that not only look great but also stay intact during a game.
From low buns to braids and space buns, these styles are perfect for anyone who’s active on the court.
Wondering which hairstyles work best for intense play?
We’ve got you covered with ideas that are designed to last through the game, no matter your hair type.
Curious about maintaining a look without it falling apart?
We’ll share tips on how to keep these styles fresh and secure throughout the game.
So, whether you’re new to basketball or a seasoned player, these hairstyle ideas will help you perform your best while still expressing your personal style.
36 Stylish Basketball Hairstyles That Last
1. Cornrows with a High Braided Bun
This hairstyle features cornrows braided tightly to the scalp and gathered into a high bun.
It’s perfect for athletes who need a long-lasting, secure style that keeps the hair completely off the face and neck, allowing freedom of movement during intense games.
Ideal for individuals with natural textured hair, this style holds up well against sweat and movement, staying intact for days or even weeks with proper care.
Maintaining moisture with oil or leave-in conditioner is important to avoid dryness.
2. Sleek High Ponytail
This sleek high ponytail is both practical and stylish, keeping the hair off the shoulders and out of the face during basketball games.
It’s an ideal choice for people with straight or wavy hair, offering a smooth and polished look that’s easy to achieve with a strong hair tie and smoothing gel to tame flyaways.
This low-maintenance look can easily be freshened up after games and transitions well from the court to everyday activities.
3. Classic High Ponytail
This hairstyle is a straightforward and practical high ponytail, perfect for keeping hair off the face and shoulders during a basketball game.
Ideal for individuals with straight or wavy hair, this look provides a clean and polished appearance that holds up well during activity.
To achieve the look, simply gather the hair high on the crown and secure it tightly with a strong hair tie.
For maintenance, refresh the ponytail with a smoothing serum to tame flyaways and keep the hair sleek and shiny.
4. Textured Low Bun with Braided Crown
This soft and elegant low bun with a braided crown keeps hair securely in place while adding a touch of sophistication to your game-day look.
It’s ideal for individuals with longer hair who want a secure but stylish option that will last through a high-energy basketball match.
To maintain this style, wrap it with a scarf overnight and spritz with water and leave-in conditioner to keep the hair moisturized and frizz-free.
5. French Braid with No Accessories
This classic French braid is simple yet effective, keeping the hair securely in place without the need for any accessories like bands or clips.
Ideal for basketball players with medium to long hair, this braid stays intact during vigorous movement while also offering a neat and elegant appearance.
To create this style, braid the hair tightly from the top of the head down to the ends, securing it with a small hair tie.
To maintain, use a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner to keep the braid smooth and prevent frizz.
6. Dutch Braid from Top to Bottom
This classic French braid keeps the hair secured from the scalp all the way to the ends, ensuring no loose strands interfere with your performance on the basketball court.
Ideal for medium to long hair, this style minimizes distractions during games by keeping everything in place while adding a stylish touch.
It’s easy to maintain; simply smooth down flyaways with a bit of gel or styling cream before games, and this style will hold up all day.
7. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids offer an excellent combination of style and practicality, keeping the hair completely off the face and neck.
This style is perfect for high-energy athletes who need a hairstyle that won’t budge even during the most intense basketball games.
Dutch braids add a touch of boldness, and the secure nature of the braiding means minimal need for touch-ups.
To keep this look fresh, simply spritz with water or light oil to maintain moisture and shine.
8. Playful Pigtail Braids
This playful and practical look is perfect for athletes who want to add some fun to their game-day appearance.
The high pigtail braids ensure that the hair is kept out of the way during matches, while the braids themselves add extra hold and security for longer-lasting wear.
Ideal for individuals with medium to long hair, this look is as cute as it is functional.
To maintain it, wrap the braids at night and apply a leave-in conditioner to keep them sleek and neat.
9. Loose Ponytail with a Headband
This loose ponytail with a headband is a casual and easy-to-achieve style that keeps the hair under control while allowing some movement for those with naturally wavy or curly hair.
The headband adds extra security, making it perfect for players who want to keep their hair off their faces during intense games while maintaining a more laid-back look.
Simply tie the ponytail at the back, slip on a wide headband, and you’re ready to go!
10. Curly Top Bun
This curly top bun is an excellent choice for players with natural curls or textured hair, keeping everything neatly in place while highlighting the hair’s natural volume.
This style allows for movement without the hassle of hair falling into the face or onto the shoulders during a game.
To keep the curls looking fresh, apply a curl-defining cream before securing the bun, and add moisture with a light leave-in spray.
11. Natural Curly Fro
This natural curly fro is a bold and beautiful look that embraces the full volume and texture of natural curls.
It’s perfect for players with curly or coily hair who want to maintain a style that stays out of the face but still showcases their curls in a free and unrestrictive way.
To keep the curls defined and frizz-free, use a curl cream or leave-in conditioner, and gently fluff the hair with your fingers before heading to the court.
12. Braided Ponytail
This sleek braided ponytail offers a perfect balance between practicality and style, keeping the hair securely tied back while adding the detail of a long, neat braid.
This look is ideal for those with long hair who want a secure yet stylish option that keeps the hair off the neck during games.
To achieve this look, gather the hair into a high ponytail and braid tightly down to the ends, securing it with a tie.
Keep the look smooth by using a light gel or serum.
13. High Puff with Defined Edges
This high puff is a fantastic option for natural curls, gathering the hair into a voluminous bun at the crown while the edges are styled into sleek baby hairs.
It’s ideal for players with natural curly or coily hair who want to keep their look neat and playful at the same time.
Use a curl-enhancing product to bring out the hair’s natural texture, and keep the edges sleek with a styling gel for long-lasting hold.
14. Loose Low Bun
This relaxed low bun is a simple yet elegant option, gathering the hair at the nape of the neck while allowing loose strands and curls to frame the face naturally.
It’s perfect for players who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that stays put during the game but looks soft and casual off the court.
To maintain the look, simply tie the hair back loosely, leaving out some tendrils, and use a light-hold spray to keep the bun secure without stiffening the curls.
15. Long Sectioned Ponytail with Loose Texture
This long sectioned ponytail with loose texture offers a more relaxed and casual version of the classic ponytail, allowing the natural texture of the hair to shine through.
It’s great for players with longer, wavy hair who want a secure hairstyle that doesn’t feel too tight or restrictive.
To create this look, loosely tie the hair starting from the nape, and leave the ponytail slightly loose to maintain the natural wave pattern, diviging it in sections with elastic bands.
Use a light styling cream to keep the hair soft and free of frizz.
16. Voluminous High Puff
This high puff is ideal for players with natural curly or coily hair, providing a secure style that keeps the hair off the face and neck while highlighting the hair’s natural volume and texture.
It’s a great option for those who want a fuss-free style with a bold look on the court.
To maintain the puff, use a moisturizing curl cream, and tie it up in a satin scarf overnight to reduce frizz.
17. Thick Side Braid
This thick side braid is a charming and practical option for basketball players who want to keep their hair secure but with a softer, relaxed appearance.
It’s ideal for those with medium to long hair, allowing them to play while maintaining a stylish look.
To achieve this style, loosely braid the hair from one side of the head and secure it with a tie.
Use a lightweight cream to keep the braid sleek and frizz-free.
18. High Curly Puffy Ponytail
The high curly puffy ponytail is a great option for those with curly or textured hair.
The hair is gathered into a ponytail at the top of the head, with the curls adding volume and bounce.
Ideal for players with naturally curly hair, this style brings flair to the court while keeping the hair off the neck and out of the face.
Use a curl-defining cream or mousse to enhance and maintain the curls’ shape and keep them looking vibrant throughout the game.
19. Sleek High Bun
The sleek high bun is a timeless and functional look, especially suited for players with natural, textured hair.
Pulled up tightly, the bun sits at the crown of the head, keeping hair out of the way and ensuring focus on the game.
This style works well for all hair types, especially curly or coily hair.
To maintain the bun’s shape and keep edges smooth, consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair gel.
The look can also be refreshed quickly during breaks in the game.
20. Textured Low Bun with Crown Braids
This hairstyle features a crown braid that wraps around the head, leading to a voluminous low bun at the nape of the neck.
The crown braid adds texture and sophistication, making it perfect for individuals with thick, natural hair.
It is ideal for basketball players who want a neat, low-maintenance style that will keep their hair in place during games.
To maintain, apply a light oil to the scalp and use a soft-bristle brush to smooth any flyaways.
21. Messy Top Knot with Loose Tendrils
This messy top knot is both stylish and practical, especially for basketball players who prefer a more relaxed look.
The loose tendrils give it a softer, more feminine touch, while the high bun keeps hair secure during intense games.
This hairstyle works best for individuals with medium to long hair, and it’s easy to recreate by gathering the hair high on the head and securing it in a loose bun.
For maintenance, spritz with a light hairspray to keep flyaways at bay.
22. Single Dutch Braid with Defined Baby Hairs
This sleek Dutch braid is pulled tightly along the scalp, extending down the back, making it perfect for athletes who need a durable style for gameplay.
The well-defined baby hairs add an extra element of style to this practical look.
It’s a great choice for those with medium to long hair and can be maintained with a leave-in conditioner to keep the hair hydrated while keeping the edges laid with a styling gel.
23. Double Dutch Braid with Ponytail End
The double Dutch braid offers both style and function.
The braids begin at the crown of the head and finish in a secured ponytail, making this style ideal for basketball players who want their hair out of their face but still stylish.
Perfect for those with long, thick hair, it holds up well in both games and practice.
Maintain the look with regular moisturizing and smoothing out the edges with a hair gel or wax.
24. Long Double Dutch Braids Meeting in One Braid
This hairstyle merges two Dutch braids at the nape of the neck into a single, sleek braid.
It’s the perfect style for players with long hair who want to keep their locks contained during games.
This is a great style for athletes, as it stays secure and looks polished.
Moisturize the scalp regularly to prevent dryness, and use a silk scarf at night to keep the braids smooth.
25. Fishtail Braid with Voluminous Texture
This thick fishtail braid combines practicality with elegance, making it a great choice for athletes.
The added volume gives it a bold, full-bodied appearance, while the intricate weave of the fishtail braid keeps the hair secure during sports activities.
This style is ideal for individuals with long, thick hair that holds texture well.
To maintain the volume, use a texturizing spray and gently pull at the braid to loosen it slightly, giving it a more relaxed, undone look.
26. Sleek Double Dutch Braids
These sleek, tight double Dutch braids are a popular choice for basketball players due to their durability and stylish look.
The neatness of the braids ensures that the hair stays in place throughout intense physical activities.
This style works best for individuals with medium to long hair.
It’s also perfect for anyone who wants a sleek, no-fuss style that will last for days with minimal touch-ups.
Apply a light pomade to tame flyaways and keep the braids looking fresh.
27. Playful Pigtails with Choppy Bangs
This hairstyle is fun and youthful, featuring short pigtails that give off a carefree vibe, perfect for someone who wants a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
The choppy bangs add a playful edge, making it a unique look on the basketball court.
This hairstyle is best suited for those with shorter hair and is easy to maintain by simply retying the pigtails as needed.
A little hairspray or styling cream can be used to define the bangs and keep them in place during activities.
28. High Puff with Defined Curls and Bangs
This high puff hairstyle is perfect for showcasing natural curls while keeping the hair off the face.
The volume of the puff adds drama and elegance, making it a striking look for a basketball player who wants to embrace their natural texture.
This style is best suited for those with naturally curly or coily hair.
Keep the curls moisturized with a leave-in conditioner and use a satin scarf at night to maintain the shape and prevent frizz.
29. Box Braids into a High Bun
This box braids style is both functional and fashionable, with the braids pulled up into a high bun while leaving some hanging loose for a more casual vibe.
It keeps hair out of the way while adding a stylish flair.
This hairstyle is ideal for anyone with longer hair or those wearing extensions.
It’s easy to maintain with regular scalp oiling to prevent dryness and frizz.
Wrap your hair in a silk scarf at night to keep the braids looking neat and polished.
30. High Voluminous Bun with Blunt Bangs
This high, voluminous bun is both elegant and functional for a basketball player who needs their hair out of the way but still wants to maintain a polished look.
The blunt bangs provide a sharp, contrasting feature, adding a chic element to the style.
This hairstyle is best for those with long, thick hair that can hold a large bun shape.
Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep flyaways in place and smooth the bangs with a flat iron for a sleek finish.
31. Double Space Buns with Curtain Bangs
This fun and playful hairstyle features two high space buns, giving off a youthful and energetic vibe, perfect for those who want to express their personality on the court.
The curtain bangs soften the look, while the space buns ensure the hair stays out of the face during games.
It works best for medium-length hair and can be maintained by retightening the buns as needed.
Use a light gel or mousse to add volume to the buns, while leaving the bangs loose and flowy.
32. Natural Curly Double Buns
This look embraces natural curls and adds a trendy twist with two buns.
It’s a practical style for basketball players with curly hair, as it keeps the curls secure while highlighting their natural texture.
Perfect for those with medium to thick curly hair, this style can be maintained with a curl-defining cream and regular moisturizing.
Use a satin scarf at night to protect the curls and maintain the shape of the buns.
33. Short Box Braids
Short box braids are an excellent choice for athletes who want a low-maintenance, long-lasting hairstyle.
These braids offer a sleek and structured look while staying out of the face, making them perfect for high-energy sports like basketball.
This hairstyle is ideal for anyone looking for protective styling, and it’s easy to care for with regular scalp oiling.
Cover the braids with a silk scarf at night to prevent frizz and keep them looking fresh for weeks.
34. Sleek Bob with Headband
This sleek bob, paired with a headband, is both stylish and functional for basketball players who want a neat, simple hairstyle.
The headband helps keep the hair away from the face, while the bob’s sharp cut adds an element of sophistication.
This style is best for individuals with straight or slightly wavy hair.
For maintenance, smooth the hair with a flat iron and use a light oil to add shine and keep it looking fresh during games.
35. Short Braids with Loose Ends
This playful and low-maintenance hairstyle features two short braids, with loose ends creating a more relaxed and casual vibe.
The fringe adds softness, making it a great style for athletes who want something easy but still cute and functional on the court.
This style works best for individuals with shorter hair and can be refreshed by re-braiding the sections as needed.
Use a bit of styling cream to keep the braids smooth and tame any frizz.
36. Natural Curls with Wide Headband
This hairstyle embraces natural curls, while the wide headband provides functionality by keeping hair in place during basketball games.
It’s perfect for players with naturally curly hair who want to show off their texture while keeping the look simple and neat.
To maintain this style, keep the curls hydrated with a leave-in conditioner and use the headband to keep hair secure throughout activities.
This style is easy to refresh and works well in both casual and active settings.
What’s the Best Way to Maintain Basketball Hairstyles?
Maintaining your basketball hairstyle throughout a game doesn’t have to be difficult.
Start by ensuring your hair is well-prepped with moisturizing products to prevent dryness.
Use strong-hold gels or creams that match your hair type to keep flyaways in place.
For braids and buns, a satin or silk scarf can help maintain the integrity of the style overnight.
For curly hair, using a leave-in conditioner will ensure your curls stay hydrated and defined.
And, most importantly, don’t forget to re-secure your style before each game!
How Can You Choose the Right Basketball Hairstyle for Your Hair Type?
Choosing the right basketball hairstyle depends on your hair type and length.
If you have long, thick hair, styles like Dutch braids or high buns work best to keep your hair out of the way.
For shorter hair, styles like box braids or short ponytails are ideal for preventing distraction during play.
It’s also important to consider the texture of your hair.
Curly and coily hair benefits from protective styles like braids, while straight hair might work best with buns or headband-assisted styles.
Picking the right style ensures you stay comfortable and focused during the game.
No matter your hair type or length, there are plenty of basketball hairstyle variations that will help you look and feel your best on the court.
