20 Best Songs About Basketball

Chelsea Cooke

It’s no secret that Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. Fans of the game can be found all over the globe, and there are countless songs about Basketball out there. But which ones are the best?

We’ve put together a list of 20 of our favorite tracks that celebrate everything about Basketball. From classic tracks to more modern songs, this list contains a little bit of everything. So whether you’re a fan of the sport or just love good music, be sure to check out our list of the 20 best songs about Basketball!

By the way, if you’re looking for more songs about basketball, you may also want to check out songs about balls, songs about boxers, songs about gambling, songs about games, and songs about jumping.

23 – Mike Will ft. Miley Cyrus, Wiz Kalifa & Juicy J

Mike WiLL Made-It - 23 (Explicit) ft. Miley Cyrus, Wiz Khalifa, Juicy J

23 is a song by Mike Will ft. Miley Cyrus, Wiz Kalifa & Juicy J. The song is about Runaway Basketball. The lyrics talk about how the game of basketball can be a metaphor for life. The chorus of the song goes: “Life’s a game but it’s not fair, I break the rules so I don’t care. So will you walk away or play? ‘Cause I’m gonna run away with the summertime.” The point of the song is that sometimes in life you have to break the rules to get ahead. You can’t always play by the book and expect to win.

Swish Swish – Katy Perry ft. Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Swish Swish (Official) ft. Nicki Minaj

In “Swish Swish”, Katy Perry starts by talking about how a basketball team is running away with the game, and the opposing team is trying to catch up. However, no matter how hard they try, they just can’t seem to make any progress. The chorus of the song references a popular saying about how it’s impossible to stop a determined person, and that’s exactly what Katy Perry is trying to say about the situation. She’s determined to win, and no one is going to stop her. In the second verse, she comparestheir opponents to a bunch of kittens who think they’re tigers.

Wings – Macklemore x Ryan Lewis

Macklemore x Ryan Lewis "WINGS" Official Music Video

“Wings” is a song by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, released as the second single from their debut studio album, The Heist (2012). The song samples “Float On” by Modest Mouse. The song peaked at number 50 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

The song is about Runaway Basketball, a team of homeless people in Seattle who play basketball together. Macklemore has said that he was inspired to write the song after meeting one of the players, Terrell Davis, and hearing his story. In the song, Macklemore talks about how society looks down on people like Davis, and how they are often written off as “losers”. However, he goes on to say that people like Davis are some of the most successful people he knows, because they have never given up on their dreams.

RIDICULOUS – Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving - RIDICULOUS (Official Music Video) ᴴᴰ

Kyrie Irving’s “Ridiculous” is a song about the runaway basketball phenomenon. In the song, Irving tells the story of how he became a runaway basketball star. He describes how he was always the last one chosen for teams and how he had to work harder than everyone else to make it to the top. Despite being underdog, Irving persevered and eventually went on to become one of the best basketball players in the world. “Ridiculous” is an inspirational song that encourages listeners to never give up on their dreams.

Basketball Shoes – Black Country, New Road

Black Country, New Road - 'Basketball Shoes' (Live from the Queen Elizabeth Hall)

Black Country, New Road is a relatively new band, having only formed in 2018. However, they have already made a significant impact with their song “Basketball Shoes.” The song is about runaway basketball, and it captures the feeling of frustration and desperation that comes with the sport. The lyrics are sharp and to the point, and the music is driving and intense. It’s clear that the band has a lot of passion for the game, and they have used that passion to create a truly excellent song. 

Basketball Dreams (Intro) – SLEEPY HALLOW

Sleepy Hallow - Basketball Dreams (Lyric Video)

The song “Basketball Dreams (Intro)” by SLEEPY HALLOW is a haunting and moving ballad about the struggles of a young basketball player who has run away from home. The lyrics paint a picture of a desperate child, searching for a place to belong and struggling to find his way in the world. The song speaks to the heart of every child who has ever felt alone and lost, and it is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever had a dream. Basketball Dreams (Intro) is a powerful reminder that, no matter how dark the night may be, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.

Basketball – Kurtis Blow

Kurtis Blow - Basketball (Official Music Video)

In the 1980s, hip hop was a fresh and exciting new genre that was just beginning to make its mark on the music industry. One of the biggest breakout hits of this era was Kurtis Blow’s “Basketball.” The song is an ode to the sport of basketball, with Blow celebrating the skills of players like Magic Johnson and Julius Erving. However, the song also contains a message of social commentary, as it references the growing number of young people who were leaving their homes to pursue their dreams of playing professional basketball.

Basketball – Bow Wow

Bow Wow, Fabolous, Fundisha, Jermaine Dupri - Basketball (Official Music Video)

“Basketball” by Bow Wow is a song about a young man’s experience with the sport of basketball. The song chronicles the speaker’s journey from uncoordinated novice to talented player. Through hard work and dedication, the speaker eventually earns a spot on his high school team. However, the road to success is not easy, and the speaker faces many challenges along the way. Despite this, he persists and ultimately becomes one of the best players in his league. The song is an inspirational tale of overcoming adversity and pursuing one’s dreams. It is sure to motivate any listener who is striving to achieve their goals.

Lose Yourself – Eminem

Eminem - Lose Yourself [HD]

The song “Lose Yourself” by Eminem is a song about the struggles of a young man trying to make it in the world of professional basketball. The song tells the story of a man who has been forced to leave his home and family behind in order to pursue his dream of playing in the NBA. The song portrays the man’s journey from his humble beginnings to his eventual success as a professional basketball player. Despite the odds being stacked against him, the man never gives up on his dream and ultimately achieves his goal. The song is an inspirational anthem for anyone who has ever struggled to achieve their dreams. It is a reminder that anything is possible if you are willing to work hard and never give up.

Remember the Name – Fort Minor

Remember The Name (Official Video) - Fort Minor

Remember the Name by Fort Minor is a song about basketball and specifically about running away from the game. The song begins with the line “You ready? Let’s go!” which immediately sets the tone for the song. It is an uptempo track that talks about how the game of basketball can be a grind and how players have to work hard to make it to the top. The chorus of the song talks about how “they” will remember the name of the person who makes it to the top, which is a clear reference to how people will remember those who are successful in life.

Roundball Rock – John Tesh

The Untold Story Behind Roundball Rock - NBA's iconic theme

John Tesh’s “Roundball Rock” is an ode to the game of basketball. The opening strains of the song are instantly recognizable to any fan of the sport, and the lyrics capture the excitement and energy of the game. Tesh masterfully weaves together references to some of the greatest players and moments in basketball history, creating a song that is both nostalgic and timeless. “Roundball Rock” has become an anthem for basketball fans around the world, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.

Space Jam – Quad City DJ’s

Quad City DJ's - Space Jam (Space Jam soundtrack)

In 1996, the American animated film “Space Jam” was released, featuring basketball legend Michael Jordan. The film’s soundtrack included the song “Space Jam” by Quad City DJ’s, which became an instant classic. The song is an ode to runaway basketball, and it perfectly captures the excitement and sense of freedom that comes with playing the game. The lyrics describe a game of pickup basketball that takes place in an abandoned playground, with the players “kicking it like [they] never did before.” The song is full of energy and excitement, and it perfectly encapsulates the joy of playing basketball.

(I Know I Got) Skillz – Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O'Neal - (I Know I Got) Skillz

In the song “I Know I Got Skillz”, Shaquille O’Neal raps about his experience as a runaway basketball player. He describes how he was able to use his athletic ability to escape from trouble and make a new life for himself. Shaq also talks about how basketball has given him an opportunity to travel the world and meet new people. The song is a tribute to the game of basketball and its ability to bring people together. It is also a reminder that hard work and dedication can pay off in the end.

Jump Around – House of Pain

House of Pain - Jump Around (Official Music Video)

“Jump Around” is a song by American hip hop group House of Pain. The song was released in 1992 as the lead single from the group’s debut album, Fine Malt Lyrics. The song became a massive commercial success, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the most iconic songs of the 1990s. “Jump Around” is based on the RUN DMC song “Peter Piper”, and samples several other songs, including “Funky President” by James Brown and “It’s Tricky” by Run-D.M.C.. In the song, lead vocalist Everlast encourages listeners to “jump around” while he delivers verses about basketball players who have gone “on the run”.

Basketball Song – Cocomelon

Basketball Song | CoComelon Nursery Rhymes & Kids Songs

Cocomelon’s “Basketball Song” is a fun and upbeat track about a runaway basketball. The song begins with the basketball bouncing down the street, smashing into mailboxes and cars. Eventually, the basketball ends up at a school, where it starts playing with some kids. However, the game is cut short when the basketball bounces out of the school and onto a busy highway. As the song comes to an end, the basketball is seen bouncing away into the distance. “Basketball Song” is a great track for kids who love to play ball. The catchy tune and vivid lyrics are sure to get them moving, and they’ll also learn a valuable lesson about safety.

Heart Of A Champion – Nelly

Heart Of A Champion

Nelly’s “Heart of a Champion” is an uplifting song about overcoming obstacles and achieving success. The song tells the story of a young basketball player who struggles to find his place on the team. Despite the challenges he faces, the player never gives up and eventually becomes the star of the team. The song is both inspirational and motivational, and it is sure to leave listeners feeling motivated to pursue their dreams. Nelly’s “Heart of a Champion” is the perfect song for anyone who is facing adversity in their life. It is a reminder that no matter how difficult things may seem, it is always possible to overcome them and achieve success.

Champions – Ron Artest

Ron Artest - CHAMPIONS Official Music Video -Directed by DJ Hotday- Tru Warier Records

Champion by Ron Artest is a song about runaway basketball. The song starts off with a powerful beat that sets the tone for the rest of the song. Artest’s lyrics are deep and meaningful, and he delivers them with passion and conviction. The overall message of the song is one of hope and determination, and it is clear that Artest believes in the power of basketball to change lives. Champion is an inspiring and uplifting song that is sure to motivate any basketball fan.

He Got Game – Public Enemy

Public Enemy - He Got Game (From "He Got Game") ft. Stephen Stills

He Got Game is a song by Public Enemy, released in 1998. The song was written for the film of the same name, starring Denzel Washington. The song is about runaway basketball, and how the game can be used to lure young people away from their homes. The lyrics describe how basketball can be used as a tool to control young people, and how the game can be used to exploit them. The song is critical of the way that basketball is often used to exploit young people, and how the game can be used to control them.

Forever – Drake

Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Eminem - Forever (Explicit Version) (Official Music Video)

The song Forever by Drake is a story about runaway basketball. It talks about how the game takes place in an abandoned playground and how the players are all from different parts of the city. The song tells how the players are all hustling to make a living and how they will never give up on their dreams. It also describes how the game is a way for them to forget about their troubles and just have fun. The song ends with Drake urging the listener to never give up on their dreams, no matter what obstacles they may face.

Sweet Georgia Brown – Louis Armstrong

Sweet Georgia Brown - Louis Armstrong

Sweet Georgia Brown was written in 1925 by Maceo Pinkard and Kenneth Casey, with Bernie Billings contributing the famous opening line “Sweet Georgia Brown, she’s the girl that I know.” The song was originally intended as a traditional pop number, but it quickly gained popularity among jazz musicians. In the hands of artists like Louis Armstrong and Fats Waller, the song became a jazz standard, with each musician putting their own unique spin on the infectious melody.