Top 10 Gift Ideas for the Teenage NBA Fan

Maybe you don't know a jump shot from a hook shot, or Carmelo Anthony from Anthony Hopkins. But your young hoops fan is a student of the NBA game and you want to give him a gift that shows your appreciation for his team's dedication. If you know an NBA fan between his tweens and his 20s, this guide should be able to help you find the odd gift he probably doesn't have. Most basketball team fans have hats or jerseys or bumper stickers, but what about a video game controller? Or the ability to watch their team play anytime their on live? This gift guide will help you get that memorable NBA gift for the young NBA fan that you know and love.

Team beanbag - while watching the game your NBA fan can chill out on these oh-so-comfy looking team beanbags. Instead of scrounging for comfy space on the floor or the couch, get 'em a bean bag so that it's harder for him to get up and scream at the refs! $40-$50

Team controller- $16. The Madcatz Company specializes in all things videogames. I was surprised that they made game controllers for PS2's that are costumed to your favorite NBA team. Nothin' like holding a Chicago Bulls controller as you play Jordan in those old slow basketball games.

Throwback jersey- Throwback jerseys are pricey, so this has to be an extra-special gift. I wouldn't even let your young fan wear it! Throwbacks are those older-style jerseys of NBA players from the past and from past teams, like a Shaquille O'Neal jersey from when he played with the Orlando Magic (remember those days?). The replica made by Mitchell and Ness looks as if they stole it from Shaq himself! $50- $500

NBA League Pass Cable/Satellite package - These are special packages that feature all live NBA games across the country. If you're like me, an East Coast fan living on the West Coast, you won't have to settle for ESPN highlights to find out how your favorite team did that night- you can watch it live! Just call local operator, but most prices are around $200. That is totally worth it since the season runs from October to June.

Sheet set- Tuck your NBA fan into some team sheet sets. These can be found almost anywhere on line for any team, but a good set can start at $30, costing a little more if you include a comforter.

Official new NBA ball- $99. This season David Stern introduced a new ball for official use in the NBA. Instead of being made from leather and 8 panels, the new official NBA ball is now one piece and made from micro fiber composite material. What does that mean? A ball that wicks away the sweat and has a longer lifespan.

Practice Jersey- Get a team practice jersey for your little shooter. Most people have a home or a road jersey, but not many fans complete the set with an authentic practice jersey. Up to $30l.

Team Star photo display- Every team has a legendary player. And if you're a hoops fan yourself, you understand how one player can transform a team from being little-known to national phenomenon. Chicago had Jordan. Boston had Bird. Who's your NBA fan's team? Find the star and find a nice framed photo to put on the wall. Prices vary extremely, depending on the craftsmanship and items included in the frame. On itsalreadysignedfor4u.com they start at $54 for some nice artwork.

Book bag- If your hoops fan is still in school, a book bag is a pretty simple gift to get. He can show off team pride at school all day! Starting around $20.

Mini-goal- This is perfect for the bedroom right over the dirty clothes basket! A mini-basketball goal can be entertaining as well as helpful to get that little fan cleanin' his room and perfecting his shot all at the same time. Or put one in your office right over the trash can for a little more fun at work. $40.

Bobblehead Doll- $20- $50. Bobbleheads can be easily found, but some Bobbleheads are more rare than others, like the ones they give away of certain players on game nights. If you scour the auction websites, you can often find your fan's favorite player recreated in Bobblehead form. Check out fansedge.com for ideas.