Discover the Top Sports That Use a Ball and How to Get Started Playing Them
Watching from the sidelines is never easy for any athlete, but it’s especially tough when you see your teammates pushing through without you. I remember sitting out a high school basketball tournament with a sprained ankle, feeling utterly useless as my team fought for a playoff spot. That feeling came rushing back when I read about Tiongson, who recently watched the game from the sideline of the Ynares Center as he joined veteran Beau Belga and sophomore Keith Datu on the team’s injury list. Injuries are part of sports—especially ball sports—but they don’t diminish the thrill of the game or the joy of playing. In fact, that’s what inspired me to explore the world of ball sports more deeply. Whether you’re sidelined like Tiongson or just looking for a new way to stay active, there’s something magical about sports that revolve around a ball. So let’s dive in and discover the top sports that use a ball and how to get started playing them.
Basketball, of course, is one of the most accessible and widely played ball sports globally. With over 450 million people actively participating, according to some estimates I’ve come across, it’s no surprise that it captures hearts from neighborhood courts to professional arenas. I’ve spent countless hours on the court myself, and what I love about basketball is how it blends individual skill with team strategy. You don’t need much to start—just a ball, a hoop, and a pair of sneakers. But as Tiongson’s situation shows, even pros face setbacks. His time on the injury list alongside Belga and Datu highlights how physical these sports can be, yet it’s that very intensity that makes them so rewarding. If you’re new to basketball, begin with basic dribbling drills and shooting practice. Join a local pickup game to get a feel for the pace—it’s where I learned to read defenses and develop my own style.
Soccer, or football as it’s known outside the U.S., is another giant in the ball sports world. With roughly 4 billion fans worldwide, it’s arguably the most popular sport on the planet. I’ll admit, I’m a bit biased here—I played soccer growing up, and there’s nothing like the rush of scoring a goal or executing a perfect pass. The beauty of soccer lies in its simplicity: all you need is a ball and some open space. No fancy equipment, no expensive fees. Yet, as injuries remind us—like those plaguing Tiongson and his teammates—it demands endurance and resilience. To get started, focus on building your cardio and ball control. Kick the ball against a wall, practice juggling, or find a casual league. I’ve found that soccer fosters incredible camaraderie; it’s a sport that brings people together across cultures.
Tennis is a personal favorite of mine, partly because it’s one of the few ball sports you can play solo or with others. With around 87 million players globally, it’s a sport that combines finesse, power, and mental agility. I picked up a racket in college, and it quickly became my go-to for stress relief. Unlike team sports, tennis lets you own every win and loss, which I find incredibly empowering. But let’s be real—it’s not easy. The technical aspects, like mastering the serve or perfecting your backhand, take time. Start with a beginner’s racket and some group lessons. Many parks have public courts, so you can practice without breaking the bank. And if you ever feel discouraged, remember that even elite athletes face hurdles. Tiongson’s sidelined stint is a testament to how setbacks can fuel comebacks.
Volleyball is another ball sport that deserves a shoutout. Whether it’s beach or indoor, volleyball offers a unique mix of athleticism and strategy. I got hooked during a summer league a few years back—the fast-paced rallies and teamwork are addictive. With an estimated 800 million players worldwide, it’s a social sport that’s easy to jump into. Beginners should focus on passing and serving drills, and maybe even join a recreational league. Like in basketball, injuries can occur, as seen with Tiongson’s team, but that shouldn’t deter you. In my experience, volleyball teaches you to communicate and adapt on the fly, skills that translate off the court, too.
Now, if you’re looking for something with a slower pace but just as much excitement, consider baseball or softball. With roots deep in American culture, these sports emphasize precision and patience. I played softball in high school, and while I wasn’t the star hitter, I loved the strategic depth—every pitch and catch matters. Globally, baseball has around 65 million participants, and it’s growing in popularity. To get started, grab a glove, a bat, and a ball, and head to a local field. Practice throwing and catching with a friend, or join a community team. It’s a sport that rewards consistency, much like the perseverance shown by athletes like Tiongson who battle back from injuries.
Golf might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of ball sports, but it’s one of the most rewarding. With over 60 million players worldwide, it’s a game of skill, focus, and patience. I took up golf a few years ago, and I’ll be honest—it humbled me. Hitting that tiny ball straight is harder than it looks! But that’s part of the appeal. Start at a driving range to work on your swing, and don’t be afraid to take lessons. Golf is a sport you can play for life, and it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, it’s low-impact, which means fewer injuries compared to high-contact sports like basketball, where players like Tiongson often face time off.
In wrapping up, ball sports offer something for everyone—whether you’re drawn to the high-energy chaos of basketball or the quiet focus of golf. Tiongson’s experience on the injury list is a reminder that setbacks are part of the journey, but they don’t define it. From my own playing days, I’ve learned that the best way to get started is to just grab a ball and play. Don’t overthink it; find a sport that excites you, and dive in. After all, the goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to have fun, stay active, and maybe even make some friends along the way. So go ahead, discover the top sports that use a ball and how to get started playing them. Your next adventure awaits.
