The US National Basketball Association (NBA) has introduced a new official game ball for the 2006-2007 season. The new ball, manufactured by Spalding, features a new material and design that is said to offer better grip, feel, and consistency than the traditional leather ball. This is first change to the ball in over 35 years and only the second in 60 seasons.

The new ball features Spalding's Cross Traxxion technology which comprises two interlocking, cross-shaped panels rather than the eight oblong panels found on traditional basketballs. As a result, there is more material coverage. The ball is made of a microfibre composite with moisture management properties that are said to provide better grip and feel throughout the course of a game. The new composite material eliminates the need for a break-in period, which has always been required with a leather ball, and achieves consistency from ball to ball.