Looking for stylish and practical hairstyles for game day?
Whether you’re playing basketball or just showing off your sporty side, the right hairstyle can make all the difference.
From braided crowns to sleek ponytails, these 24 cute basketball hairstyles will help keep your hair in place while looking fabulous.
In this article, I’ll share 24 cute basketball hairstyles for game days that will keep you looking great on the court!
1. High Ponytail with Sleek Edges
This high ponytail is perfect for game days—sleek, secure, and stylish. The laid edges add a polished frame to the face while the ponytail sits high for bounce and energy during movement. Whether you’re playing or cheering from the sidelines, the clean lines of this look keep hair in place while maintaining a sharp and trendy appearance.
2. Braided Bun with Headband
A braided bun paired with a headband is ideal for basketball—both functional and cute. The braids keep every strand in place, while the bun ensures no hair touches the neck. The addition of a headband brings charm and extra hold, making it a court-ready look that blends sportiness with practicality.
3. Twin Space Buns with Middle Part
Space buns are a fun, energetic choice for game days. This double bun style with a centered part keeps the hair off the face and adds a sporty yet stylish twist to the look. It’s secure for movement while giving a playful vibe that’s great for expressing team spirit or personal flair.
4. Low Twisted Bun with Side Braid Detail
The low twisted bun with a side braid adds detail and functionality. The braid not only adds texture but also secures front strands, keeping them away from the eyes. The bun rests comfortably at the nape, allowing full head movement while staying neatly in place—perfect for long hours on the court.
5. Sleek Dutch Braids Pulled Back
Dutch braids are a game-day favorite for their tight, grippy hold and sleek aesthetic. Pulled straight back, these braids eliminate any distractions, keeping the hair locked down and off the face. Ideal for intense matches, they provide both comfort and confidence—plus, they look effortlessly cool from warm-up to buzzer.
6. High Puff with Defined Curls
The high puff is a confident choice for curly-haired players. It celebrates natural texture while keeping the hair securely away from the face and neck. The lift from the crown gives a bold silhouette, and defined curls offer volume and flair with zero fuss. It’s a powerful, stylish choice that owns the court.
7. Boxer Braids with Tidy Ends
Boxer braids offer maximum control and comfort for intense play. Their close-to-the-scalp construction holds firm during motion, while the symmetry gives a sharp, athletic look. Whether you’re running drills or playing full-court, these neat braids guarantee no slipping, no fuss, and all the style.
8. Curly High Bun with Head Wrap Accent
This curly high bun brings ease and personality to game days. The volume adds dimension while the head wrap provides stylish support and a secure fit. It’s a practical option that respects natural texture while keeping it neatly contained for performance. Versatile and eye-catching, it transitions beautifully from court to post-game hangouts.
9. Bubble Ponytail with Hair Ties
The bubble ponytail is a playful and athletic-friendly hairstyle. The multiple ties along the length keep the hair structured and bounce-proof, while still showing off its full volume. It’s a great look for someone wanting both practicality and trend appeal while moving fast on the court.
10. French Braid into Low Ponytail
A French braid transitioning into a low ponytail blends grace and functionality. The braid holds the top section firmly while the ponytail offers movement. It’s especially helpful for players who want hair control without fully tying everything up. It gives structure up top while letting the ends move freely and lightly.
11. Half-Up Braided Crown with Loose Waves
The braided crown offers a secure yet romantic look for game day. It lifts the front sections off the face and holds them neatly in place, while the loose waves below bring movement and softness. This half-up style strikes a balance between pretty and practical, perfect for keeping hair in control while still feeling stylish.
12. Twisted Low Ponytail with Side Part
A twisted low ponytail brings understated charm to the court. The side part adds femininity, while the twist provides secure hold without tight pulling. This hairstyle is ideal for long games, keeping strands contained in a subtle, elegant way. It’s a style that supports athleticism while still feeling thoughtfully put-together.
13. Double Halo Braids with Middle Part
Double halo braids are both secure and striking. Wrapping around the head, they keep every strand locked in place—great for game-day movement. The middle part adds symmetry, and the tight braiding ensures no loose ends. It’s a look that offers strength and beauty, perfect for those who want to perform and stand out.
14. Cornrow-Inspired Side Braids into Puff
Side cornrows feeding into a puff give both edge and comfort. The scalp braids prevent stray hairs around the face, and the puff adds expressive volume and bounce. It’s a powerful combination that highlights texture while staying totally court-ready. Perfect for adding character to a functional hairstyle.
15. Shoulder-Length Curly Hair with Hair Clip
Clipped curly hair brings style without sacrificing comfort. The side clip keeps curls away from the eyes while the rest of the hair flows freely with defined texture. This style celebrates natural volume and is ideal for game days, offering visibility and expression with no heavy-duty styling needed.
16. Low Bubble Braid with Center Part
Low bubble braids are sporty and playful. Each bubbled section helps distribute volume while keeping the entire ponytail secure. It’s a low-tug option that minimizes tension while still looking cool and athletic. With a centered part, it offers balanced structure—ideal for full-court hustle with style intact.
17. Curly Afro with Patterned Headband
The curly afro is a bold, natural look that works beautifully on game day. The headband offers practical front-hold, keeping curls away from the face while allowing volume to shine. It’s a no-fuss, high-impact style that supports movement while celebrating natural beauty and bounce.
18. Twisted Side Ponytail with Volume
The side ponytail with a twist adds motion and elegance. It’s perfect for players who want a fun asymmetrical look while keeping hair in check. The twist helps control flyaways and adds subtle texture, while the low placement allows full neck mobility—practical yet full of personality.
19. Simple Top Knot with Scrunchie
A top knot is always a win for basketball. Pulled up and secured with a scrunchie, this bun stays firm throughout fast-paced play. It clears the neck and face entirely while allowing just enough softness at the hairline for comfort. A quick, go-to style that holds up during action.
20. French Twist-Inspired Ponytail
The French twist ponytail fuses elegance with ease. The roll at the top keeps the crown tight and lifted, while the ponytail allows free-flowing motion. It’s ideal for game day when you want a little flair in a functional look. Secure and graceful, it transitions easily from court to casual.
21. Loose Braided Pigtails
Loose braided pigtails combine simplicity with playfulness. They offer just enough structure to hold hair back while allowing texture and softness. This casual approach is great for less intense game days or team practice. It’s quick to style and easy to maintain—perfect for staying active without a fuss.
22. Slicked-Back Braid with Gel Hold
Slicked-back braids are made for speed and precision. The gel holds every strand in place, leaving no room for frizz or flyaways. With everything tied tightly, it reduces heat buildup and stays secure through intense games. This style delivers clean, professional focus without sacrificing comfort.
23. Double Side Braids into Low Buns
This dual braid-to-bun combo brings cute and control together. It keeps hair off the neck and tightly secured while allowing a creative, sporty edge. Each side braid maintains order, and the buns stay put no matter how fast you move. It’s perfect for playful athletes who still demand function.
24. Coiled Low Bun with Middle Part
A coiled low bun offers full security with a sophisticated silhouette. The middle part adds symmetry, while the coiling technique ensures zero movement. This style is especially great for tournaments or long practice sessions where you need everything in place from start to finish. It’s low-maintenance, high-performance style done right.
Conclusion
No matter your hair type or length, there’s a basketball hairstyle here for you. These 24 cute styles are all about combining functionality with style, ensuring your hair stays in place while you’re on the court. Whether you prefer braids, ponytails, or buns, each look is designed to keep you feeling confident and ready to play.
