The use of maple wood floors has been an integral part of basketball history, contributing to the NBA’s fast-paced, high-performance style of play. Known for its durability and smooth finish, maple remains the standard for professional basketball courts to this day. Here’s a look at how and why maple floors became the foundation for the game.
The Early Days of Wooden Courts
In the early 20th century, basketball was played on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, dirt, and basic wooden floors. As the sport grew in popularity, it became clear that wooden courts offered a better playing surface. Maple wood began to stand out for its dense, uniform grain that could withstand constant use without splintering or warping.
Why Maple?
Maple is favored for several reasons:
- Durability – Maple’s hardness allows it to resist scratches, dents, and wear from continuous foot traffic and bouncing basketballs.
- Elasticity – Its slight flexibility reduces stress on players’ joints, minimizing injuries over time.
- Aesthetic Appeal – The light color of maple gives courts a clean, polished look, ideal for broadcasting on television.
The wood also holds up well against temperature fluctuations and humidity, making it perfect for arenas that host multiple events.
The NBA’s Adoption of Maple Floors
As the NBA was founded in 1946, arenas began to adopt maple floors as the standard. Boston’s TD Garden and Madison Square Garden in New York were among the first major venues to showcase the material. The use of portable maple courts became common in the 1970s, allowing teams to assemble and dismantle floors as needed for other events in shared venues.
Iconic Maple Floors in NBA History
Some of the most memorable moments in NBA history have taken place on maple courts. The Boston Celtics’ parquet floor, made of interlocking maple panels, became one of the league’s most iconic surfaces. Installed in the 1940s, the floor not only provided excellent performance but also symbolized the team’s tradition and legacy.
Maple Floors in the Modern NBA
Today, every NBA arena features a maple court that meets strict league standards. These courts are typically made from northern hard maple, which grows in cold climates and produces denser wood. Manufacturers use precision milling techniques to create interlocking panels, ensuring a smooth, seamless surface.
Additionally, advances in finish coatings have improved traction and reduced glare, enhancing players’ performance and the viewing experience for fans.
