27 Top Basketball Hairstyles For Women

Basketball demands both style and functionality from your hair.

Whether you’re driving to the hoop or shooting from downtown, your hairstyle needs to stay put while showcasing your personality.

We’ve rounded up 27 game-changing hairstyles that combine performance with flair.

These court-ready looks will keep hair out of your face during intense games while still letting you express your individual style.

From practical braids to statement-making up-dos, you’ll find options for every hair type and length.

Ready to elevate your game-day look? Let’s jump into these slam-dunk styles that basketball players love.

1: High Ponytail

The classic high ponytail remains a court favorite for good reason. Pull your hair tightly at the crown for maximum security during quick movements.

Use a strong elastic and consider wrapping a small section of hair around the base to hide the band for a more polished look.

For extra hold, apply gel or hairspray to eliminate flyaway.

This versatile style works with virtually all hair lengths past the chin and keeps everything neatly contained during your crossovers and jump shots.

2: French Braids

Two parallel French braids offer unmatched security for game day. Start the braids high on your head and work your way down for the most effective style.

The tighter you braid, the better they’ll hold through aggressive play. Consider adding a little gel at the roots before braiding to manage any baby hairs or flyaways.

This timeless style works especially well for medium to long hair and provides excellent sweat management during intense games.

3: Box Braids

Box braids deliver both protection and versatility for natural hair. You can wear them down, pulled back, or in a bun depending on your preference.

These braids protect your natural hair from the constant strain of styling while giving you endless options for game day.

Their weight helps them stay in place during fast movements.

With proper installation, box braids can last for weeks, making them a low-maintenance option throughout basketball season.

4: Bubble Ponytail

Create visual interest with this fun variation on the standard ponytail. Secure your hair in a high ponytail, then add elastic bands every few inches down the length.

Gently pull the hair between bands outward to create the “bubble” effect. This eye-catching style offers the same functionality as a regular ponytail but with added flair.

The style works best on medium to long hair and stays remarkably secure during play.

5: Cornrows

Cornrows provide exceptional security and sweat management during intense games. You can customize the pattern and direction based on your preferences.

This protective style keeps every strand firmly in place regardless of how you move on the court. Consider ending your cornrows in a ponytail or bun for added security.

With proper installation, cornrows can last for weeks, making them perfect for tournament season.

6: Space Buns

Channel your inner Princess Leia with this playful yet functional dual-bun style. Divide your hair into two high ponytails, then twist each around its base to form buns.

Secure with bobby pins and hairspray for maximum hold. This style works particularly well for medium-length hair that might not all fit into a single bun.

Space buns keep hair completely off your neck and face while adding a fun, youthful element to your game-day look.

7: Braided Bun

Combine the security of braids with the neatness of a bun for this winning style. Braid your hair first (either one central braid or multiple), then wrap and pin into a bun.

The initial braiding adds texture that helps the bun stay in place without excessive pins. Apply edge control along your hairline for a polished finish.

This sophisticated yet practical style works for most hair lengths and types, keeping everything perfectly contained during play.

8: Slicked-Back Low Bun

For a sleek, professional look that performs under pressure, try a gel-slicked low bun.

Apply a strong-hold gel from roots to ends, then gather hair at the nape of your neck.

Twist into a bun and secure with pins or a hair tie. The gel ensures even the shortest layers and baby hairs stay put during intense play.

This minimalist style works across hair types and projects confidence and focus on the court.

9: Dutch Braids

Similar to French braids but with an “inside-out” appearance, Dutch braids sit more prominently on your head.

The technique keeps hair exceptionally secure during play.

Create two parallel Dutch braids from forehead to nape for maximum hold. The raised texture of these braids adds visual interest to your game-day appearance.

This style suits medium to long hair and pairs particularly well with colorful headbands or hair accessories.

10: Half-Up Top Knot

For players with longer hair who don’t want it all tied back, the half-up top knot offers a perfect compromise. Gather just the top section of your hair into a small bun.

This keeps your face clear while allowing some length to remain down. Add a small elastic around the remaining loose hair at the nape of your neck for extra security.

This style works well for layered hair that might not all fit into a traditional ponytail.

11: Goddess Braids

Larger than traditional cornrows, goddess braids make a statement while keeping hair perfectly secure. The thicker braiding pattern creates a distinctive look on the court.

These braids can be styled in various directions and patterns to suit your preference. Consider incorporating some colorful threads or beads for added personality.

Goddess braids require less maintenance than smaller braids and can last through several weeks of practices and games.

12: Headband with Ponytail

Sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective. Pair a wide, moisture-wicking sports headband with a secure mid-height ponytail for reliable performance.

The headband catches sweat and keeps flyaways in check, while the ponytail keeps length contained. Choose a silicone-lined headband for maximum slip resistance.

This quick, easy style works for almost any hair type and can be assembled in under a minute before game time.

13: Crown Braid

This elegant style keeps hair completely off your face and neck for unrestricted movement.

Create a braid that wraps around your head like a crown, pinning as you go.

For thicker hair, you might need to create two braids and wrap them around each other. Secure with plenty of bobby pins crossed in X-patterns for maximum hold.

This sophisticated style offers exceptional stability and works particularly well for players with long hair.

14: Fulani Braids

Incorporating beautiful patterns and sometimes beads, Fulani braids combine style with exceptional functionality.

The characteristic center braid with surrounding patterns offers unique visual appeal.

These braids stay perfectly secure during even the most intense gameplay. Consider adding small, lightweight accessories that won’t interfere with your performance.

This protective style works beautifully for natural hair and can last for weeks with proper care.

15: Pineapple Up-do

Perfect for curly and natural hair, the pineapple updo gathers your curls high on your head where they can move freely without obstructing your vision.

Use a soft, wide band to gather your hair at the crown, allowing curls to cascade from the top. This style protects your curl pattern while keeping hair contained.

The pineapple offers excellent ventilation during hot games while showcasing your natural texture.

16: Braided Headband

Create a natural headband using your own hair by French or Dutch braiding just the front section from ear to ear. Pull the remaining hair into a ponytail or bun.

This technique provides extra security at the hairline where sweat often causes slippage. The braided section adds a decorative element to an otherwise simple style.

This versatile option works for medium to long hair and various textures.

17: Flat Twists

Similar to cornrows but created by twisting rather than braiding, flat twists offer excellent security with a distinctive texture. They work beautifully on natural hair.

You can direct the twists toward a central ponytail or bun for added security. The style distributes tension evenly across your scalp for comfort during long games.

Flat twists can last for several days to a week with proper care, making them perfect for tournament weekends.

18: Sleek Pixie

Short-haired players enjoy maximum convenience with a sleek pixie cut. Apply a small amount of pomade or gel for hold and direction.

The ultra-short length eliminates any hair-in-face issues during play. Consider adding a thin headband if you have longer pieces at the front that might fall forward.

This low-maintenance style requires virtually no game-day prep time while keeping you cool during intense play.

19: Micro Braids in a Ponytail

Combining the protective benefits of micro braids with the security of a ponytail gives you the best of both worlds.

Install micro braids, then gather them into a high ponytail for games.

The small, lightweight braids move naturally while staying controlled within the ponytail. This style offers exceptional longevity for busy basketball seasons.

For extra security, consider wrapping a small section of braids around the ponytail holder.

20: Bantu Knots

These small, coiled knots distribute hair evenly around your head for balanced weight and exceptional security.

Section your hair into squares and twist each section into a tight knot.

The style keeps hair completely flat against your head with no loose ends to interfere with your game. Bantu knots work beautifully on natural hair of various lengths.

This protective style can last for days and transitions well between games and everyday wear.

21: Twisted Side Bun

For a quick asymmetrical style that stays put, try a twisted side bun. Gather your hair to one side at the nape, twist the length, then coil around itself.

Secure with pins, pushing them in opposite directions for maximum hold. This style keeps your neck cool while maintaining a polished appearance.

The side placement works particularly well under team caps or visors when required.

22: Topknot with Undercut

For the bold player looking to minimize hair maintenance, an undercut with a topknot delivers both style and function.

Gather the longer top section into a high, tight knot for gameplay. This style stays exceptionally cool during hot games and requires minimal adjustment.

The shaved lower portion eliminates bulk and heat. The contrasting textures make a strong style statement both on and off the court.

23: Crochet Faux Locs

For protective styling with a distinctive look, crochet faux locs offer security and style. Gather them into a high ponytail or bun during games.

The weight of the locs helps them stay in place during movement. Their thickness allows for secure styling with minimal accessories needed.

This low-manipulation protective style can last for weeks through multiple games and practices.

24: Braided Mohawk

Create a stunning central braid or series of braids running from forehead to nape while keeping the sides sleek and close to the head.

This style combines visual drama with practical functionality.

The central braided section can be as elaborate or simple as you prefer. Apply gel to the sides for a sleek contrast to the textured center.

This eye-catching style remains completely secure during play while making a bold statement.

25: Twisted Crown with Curly Pony

For naturally curly hair, create a twisted section around the front hairline that transitions into a curly ponytail at the back.

The twisted “crown” section secures the most vulnerable hairline area. Use bobby pins along the twisted section for extra security.

Allow your natural curls to flow from the ponytail for a style that celebrates your texture while keeping hair contained.

This style works beautifully on various curl patterns and medium to long lengths.

26: Double Buns with Braided Front

Start with two or three cornrows at the front hairline, then divide the remaining hair into two high buns.

This combination offers maximum security and sweat control.

The braided front section prevents any forward-falling strands during play. The dual buns distribute weight evenly for comfort during long games.

This playful yet functional style works for medium to long hair and various textures.

27: Senegalese Twists in a High Pony

The substantial weight and texture of Senegalese twists create a striking high ponytail that stays firmly in place.

Gather all twists at the crown and secure with a strong elastic.

For extra security, wrap a few twists around the base to hide the elastic. The height keeps your neck cool while the contained twists stay out of your face.

This protective style offers weeks of low-maintenance wear through multiple games and practices.

Conclusion

Your basketball hairstyle should enhance your game, not distract from it.

Choose a style that makes you feel confident and keeps your focus on the court, not on fixing flyway’s. Game on!