Basketball Dunk Calculator

Posted by:

|

On:

|

,
How many inches do I need to Dunk?

Calculate the vertical jump needed to touch the rim and dunk a basketball. Get personalized training targets based on your measurements.

Player Measurements

Results & Analysis

Touch Rim
24″
Dunk (Standing)
30″
Dunk (Approach)
20″
Your Current Status
Hang Time
0.83s
Takeoff Speed
15.2 mph

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to measure my standing reach, or can I estimate it from height?

Measured standing reach is best, because arm length and shoulder width change the number a lot. If you do not know it, the estimator uses common height to reach ratios, with presets for short, average, or long arms. You can fine tune with a small adjustment.

What does “extra reach for dunk” mean, and why does the value change by dunk type?

Extra reach is the space you need above the rim to control the ball and push it through. One hand with a good palm usually needs about 6 inches. Two hands often needs around 10 inches. Large dunks can need 15 inches or more. Use Custom if you want to set your own target.

What is the difference between standing vertical and approach vertical?

Standing vertical is from a flat foot or quick dip without a run up. Approach vertical includes horizontal speed from a few steps, which usually gives a boost. Many athletes see about 10 percent more with an approach. You can change the boost percentage to match your experience.

How accurate are these results?

They are good for planning. Real dunks depend on many things, for example hand size, ball grip, timing, plant mechanics, fatigue, and confidence with the ball. Treat the required inches as a practical target, then test on the court.

Can I lower the rim or use a smaller ball to practice?

Yes. Lowering the rim or using a smaller ball reduces the extra reach and makes progression smoother. Add height or switch ball sizes as you improve, so your targets stay challenging.

What does the hang time number tell me, and how is it calculated?

Hang time comes from basic physics. For a given jump height, time in the air equals two times the square root of two times height divided by gravity. It is useful for judging how much time you have above the dunk threshold. Longer hang time gives more margin for the finish.