Secure & Stylish Basketball Hairstyles for All Hair Types

Introduction

Ever been out on the court, and halfway through the game, your hair’s distracting you, sticking to your forehead, or constantly needing to be pushed out of your face? For basketball players, keeping their hair out of the way is about more than just style—it’s essential for focus, comfort, and performance. The right hairstyle doesn’t just look good; it also allows you to stay agile and concentrate on the game. From quick-and-easy cuts to expressive styles that show off personality, basketball hairstyles are all about functionality with flair. Here are 20 popular basketball hairstyles for players who want to look sharp without compromising on the game.

20 Easy Basketball Hairstyles

 1. Buzz Cut

The buzz cut is simple, low-maintenance, and popular among basketball players. It’s ideal for those who want a no-fuss style that stays out of the way and requires minimal upkeep. With its short length, the buzz cut is easy to maintain and offers a clean, athletic look.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with clean, dry hair.
2. Choose a hair clipper with a guard number.
3. Begin clipping from the front of your head, moving toward the back in even, smooth strokes.
4. Go over all parts of your head, including the sides and back, until all hair is the same length.
5. Brush off loose hair and wash your head to remove small clippings.

2. High Top Fade

A classic style, the high top fade brings some old-school charm with a modern twist. Characterized by its tight fade on the sides and longer top, this hairstyle adds height and style, perfect for players looking to stand out.

To make hairstyle:

1. Wet your hair lightly and brush it upward.
2. Use clippers to trim the sides and back close to the scalp, leaving the top longer.
3. Slowly blend the hair from the shorter sides up to the longer top using a guard that’s one size up.
4. Use scissors to shape the top, keeping it even and squared off.
5. Brush and style the top to ensure a neat, high shape.

3. Cornrows

Cornrows are a protective style with cultural roots and a significant presence on the court. Braided close to the scalp, they keep hair controlled and out of the face, making them ideal for intense play. Cornrows can be personalized with various patterns for added flair.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with clean, damp hair and part it into sections based on the design you want.
2. Take a small section at the beginning of one part, divide it into three parts, and begin a tight braid close to the scalp.
3. Every time you cross a piece over, add a small amount of hair from the scalp.
4. Continue braiding down the scalp in your chosen pattern until you reach the end of each section.
5. Secure each braid with a small elastic band to keep it in place.

4. Twist Outs

Twist outs offer a defined, curly look that holds up during games while giving some volume and texture. This style works well for players with natural curls, providing a flexible look that can be worn loose or tied back.

To make hairstyle:

1. Begin with slightly damp, sectioned hair.
2. Take a small section, apply a bit of styling cream, and divide it into two equal strands.
3. Twist the two strands around each other, working down to the ends.
4. Repeat with each section and let twists dry completely.
5. Untwist each piece carefully, fluffing the roots for extra volume.

5. Afro

The Afro is a bold and natural style that exudes confidence. Keeping the hair in its natural form, it’s a statement look that’s also practical if the right products are used to maintain it. This hairstyle needs some maintenance but is worth the unique look.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with clean, detangled hair.
2. Use a wide-tooth comb or pick to gently comb out your hair, creating volume.
3. Shape your hair by patting it with your hands, rounding it out to keep it even on all sides.
4. Use a pick to lift roots for added fullness, and apply a bit of hair cream to keep it soft and moisturized.

6. Undercut with Top Knot

This look combines a modern undercut with a functional top knot, giving players a way to pull back longer hair. The shaved sides keep it low-maintenance around the edges, while the top knot adds a fashionable touch.

To make hairstyle:

1. Section off the top part of your hair and clip it out of the way.
2. Use clippers to shave the sides and back, leaving only the top section long.
3. Release the top section, gather it together, and twist it into a small bun at the top.
4. Secure the bun with an elastic or hair tie, and adjust it for a neat look.

7. Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are durable and low-maintenance once formed, providing a distinct look on the court. They can be worn long or tied back, depending on preference, allowing for flexibility in style and functionality.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with clean, sectioned hair.
2. Twist each small section with your fingers, rolling it tightly until it forms a coil.
3. Continue twisting each section until all hair is coiled, and use locking gel if needed to help secure the twists.
4. Let the twists lock over time, occasionally palm-rolling them to keep the shape.
5. Separate and re-twist new growth regularly to maintain.

8. Fade with Curls

This style keeps the curls on top, giving a natural texture while the fade on the sides keeps it clean and manageable. It’s a great look for players with curly hair who want a bit of length without sacrificing control.

To make hairstyle:

1. Section off the top curls from the sides.
2. Use clippers to fade the sides and back, starting short near the ears and going slightly longer toward the top.
3. Blend the top and sides by using a slightly higher clipper guard near the top.
4. Shape the top curls with your fingers, adding a bit of curl cream to define them.

9. Man Bun

The man bun is a popular choice for players with longer hair. Tying it up into a bun is both stylish and practical, keeping hair out of the face during play. It’s a versatile style that suits many hair types.

To make hairstyle:

1. Brush or comb your hair back, gathering it at the crown of your head.
2. Twist the gathered hair, wrapping it around itself to form a small bun.
3. Use an elastic to secure the bun, adjusting it to sit high or low as you prefer.
4. Tuck any stray hairs for a clean look, or leave a few loose for a casual vibe.

10. Mohawk Fade

The Mohawk fade is a bold look with the sides shaved and a strip of longer hair down the middle. This edgy style works well for players wanting to make a statement and adds personality to any game-day outfit.

To make hairstyle:

1. Shave the sides close to the scalp, leaving a strip of hair down the center.
2. Use clippers to taper the sides, starting with a shorter guard near the bottom and a longer guard near the strip.
3. Shape the strip to keep it even and slightly longer than the sides.
4. Style the center strip upward using a gel for a spiky look if desired.

11. Box Braids

Box braids are popular for athletes looking for a manageable, protective style. They can be styled in various lengths and worn loose or tied back, allowing for a flexible look that’s also low-maintenance.

To make hairstyle:

1. Divide hair into small, square sections.
2. Take one section and split it into three equal parts.
3. Start braiding each section by crossing the outside sections over the middle one, keeping it tight.
4. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the hair and secure with a small elastic.
5. Repeat with all sections until the whole head is braided.

12. Caesar Cut

The Caesar cut is a short, classic style with a straight fringe along the front. Its simplicity makes it a popular choice for players who want a low-maintenance yet polished look.

To make hairstyle:

1. Comb hair forward to make the front fringe even.
2. Use scissors or clippers to cut hair straight across at a short length.
3. Trim the sides slightly shorter than the top for a smooth look.
4. Blend around the edges to keep the look sharp.

13. Bald Fade

This style involves a close shave on the sides that gradually fades into slightly longer hair on top. The bald fade offers a sleek, sharp appearance and is ideal for players who want to keep cool and minimize hair maintenance.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with clippers, using a close setting to shave the sides near the scalp.
2. Gradually increase the clipper guard length as you move up the sides and back.
3. Blend the fade carefully to ensure a smooth transition from the scalp to the top.
4. Lightly trim the top if needed to match the length you desire.

14. Sponge Curls

Sponge curls give natural curls a defined look using a curl sponge for shaping. This style adds volume and texture while keeping the curls controlled, perfect for players who want a natural but stylish look.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with damp, moisturized hair.
2. Use a curl sponge, pressing it onto your hair and moving it in small, circular motions.
3. Continue working the sponge all around your head until curls are defined.
4. Shape the curls with your hands as needed for a natural look.

15. Flat Top

A throwback to classic basketball style, the flat top features a structured, squared-off shape on top. It’s a retro look that’s still popular among players for its unique, standout vibe.

To make hairstyle:

1. Comb hair up and shape it into a square shape.
2. Use clippers to trim the sides short, leaving the top longer.
3. Carefully cut the top straight across, keeping a flat, even shape.
4. Use scissors to touch up any uneven parts and add shape.

16. Low Fade with Waves

This hairstyle pairs a low fade on the sides with waves on top, creating a clean, wavy texture. It’s a classy look that keeps hair in place while adding a touch of sophistication on and off the court.

To make hairstyle:

1. Apply a wave cream to damp hair, brushing it down evenly.
2. Use clippers on a low guard to trim the sides short, blending up towards the top.
3. Continue brushing the top for wave patterns, keeping the sides neat.
4. Use a wave cap overnight to set the waves in place.

17. Ponytail with Shaved Sides

A ponytail with shaved sides is a functional, trendy style for those with longer hair. The shaved sides keep it manageable, while the ponytail can be tied up high or low, keeping hair out of the way during play.

To make hairstyle:

1. Section off the top hair, then shave the sides and back close to the scalp.
2. Gather the top hair and pull it into a ponytail at your preferred height.
3. Use an elastic to secure the ponytail and adjust as needed for comfort.

18. Faux Hawk

A more subtle take on the Mohawk, the faux hawk has a gradual fade on the sides with longer hair in the center. It’s a versatile style that’s both sporty and edgy, perfect for players who like to mix style with performance.

To make hairstyle:

1. Shave the sides short, leaving a bit of hair in the center.
2. Taper the center section from front to back.
3. Use your fingers to style the middle section upward with gel or cream.
4. Shape the faux hawk to give it a slightly raised look in the center.

19. Short Taper Fade

The short taper fade offers a clean, professional look that’s easy to maintain. It involves a gradual fade on the sides and back with slightly longer hair on top, giving a polished appearance ideal for the court and everyday life.

To make hairstyle:

1. Start with clean hair and use clippers to fade the sides and back.
2. Keep the top slightly longer than the sides for a classic taper.
3. Use scissors or clippers to blend the edges neatly.
4. Finish by brushing or combing the top for a polished look.

20. Shaggy Curls

Shaggy curls allow for a bit of length and volume, giving natural curls some freedom while keeping them manageable. This style has a laid-back vibe and can be easily pulled back or secured with a headband for play.

To make hairstyle:

1. Apply a curl cream to damp hair for texture.
2. Scrunch your hair with your hands to encourage curls to form.
3. Let your hair air-dry or use a diffuser to keep curls soft.
4. Style with your fingers to give it a relaxed, shaggy shape.

Conclusion

Finding the right hairstyle as a basketball player is about more than just looks—it’s about combining style, comfort, and performance. Each of these hairstyles offers unique advantages, whether it’s the easy maintenance of a buzz cut, the bold flair of a mohawk fade, or the protective power of braids. A well-chosen hairstyle not only keeps hair controlled on the court but also gives players a chance to express their individuality. With the right look, you can step onto the court feeling both confident and ready to play at your best. Whether you’re after a simple cut or a standout style, these options offer something for every type of player.