Basketball

Spalding NBA Zi/O Official Size Indoor/Outdoor Basketball
$34.99
I like the ball overall, but it is slightly out-of-round which is not too bad a thing, but it is a little bit of a bother. I enjoy a purely round ball. It's okay though.

Spalding Never Flat Outdoor Official Size Basketball
$24.99
As the other reviews have indicated, this is a great ball and very reasonably priced. I've had the ball for about a month now. The changing weather hasn't affected the bounce in the ball.

The thing I really like about the ball is the grip. It's very good. It has held up well on my concrete driveway. But to be fair, I have only put about 30-35 hours on it.

The Book of Basketball: The NBA According to The Sports Guy
$30.00
For any NBA fan, casual or die-hard, this is a great read with Bill Simmons view on the history of the league. Because he presents his theories and integrates his fan perspective analysis, it makes this an NBA book like none other.

Spalding 63249 Official Size NBA Street Basketball
$14.69
My son gave me this for my birthday and it's been used a couple times a week on asphalt, sun, rain, and snow and still looks new. The grip is excellent and it feels close enough to a leather ball that you won't be freaked out by the difference.

Let's be honest, you need a decent quality basketball for when friends come over or when you step outside and address the 4 for 56 three point shooting streak you are on. You could use the Spongebob Squarepants basketball your kid bought at Wal-Mart or you can ask for a decent looking Spalding basketball. I would go for the Spalding. Even if you can't knock down the outside shot or defend anyone, at least you look good coming and going from the game.