Pierce Helps League Unveil New Gameball

By Peter Stringer
Celtics.com
June 28, 2006

Paul Pierce joined NBA Commissioner David Stern at the NBA Store in New York City Wednesday morning to unveil the NBA's new Spalding game ball, which will be in use for the 2006-2007 season.

New NBA Gameball

The ball, which is made of synthetic material, is an departure from the classic leather balls that the NBA has been using. It's the first change to the Official Game Ball since 1970, and only the second in league history.

The new has abandoned the traditional interlocking channels design and has a softer feel.

According to the NBA, "The material is a microfiber composite with moisture management that provides superior grip and feel throughout the course of a game. Additionally, the new composite material eliminates the need for a break-in period, which is necessary for the current leather ball, and achieves consistency from ball to ball."

The Celtics have been using the ball in pre-draft workouts, and it will be in use for the Toshiba Vegas Summer League in July.