When it comes to buying basketball equipment in Santa Clarita, knowing where to shop can save you time, money, and headaches. While online shopping offers convenience, there's significant value in being able to try on shoes, feel equipment quality, and get expert advice from knowledgeable staff.

Santa Clarita offers several excellent options for basketball gear, from budget-friendly chains to premium sporting goods retailers. Each store has its strengths, and smart shoppers know how to leverage the best features of each location.

This guide breaks down the top 5 sporting goods stores in the SCV area, helping you make informed decisions about where to spend your basketball equipment budget.

Why Shop Local in Santa Clarita?

Before diving into specific stores, let's address why local shopping still matters in the age of Amazon Prime:

Immediate Availability

• No waiting 2-3 days for shipping

• Get equipment same-day for urgent needs

• Perfect for last-minute purchases before games or tournaments

Try Before You Buy

• Basketball shoes: Fit varies dramatically between brands and models

• Equipment: Feel the quality, weight, and construction in person

• Sizing: Youth sizing can be confusing—try on to ensure proper fit

Expert Advice

• Staff familiar with local basketball programs and needs

• Get recommendations based on your child's age, position, and skill level

• Learn about products you might not find online

Easy Returns & Exchanges

• Return defective items immediately

• No shipping costs for returns

• Instant exchanges for different sizes

Support Local Economy

• Keep jobs in Santa Clarita

• Sales tax benefits local schools and services

• Build relationships with staff who remember you

Now let's explore your options.

#1: Dick's Sporting Goods - Valencia

Address: 26591 Carl Boyer Dr, Santa Clarita, CA 91350Phone: (661) 253-9231Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 10am-7pmWebsite: stores.dickssportinggoods.com

Overview

Dick's Sporting Goods is unquestionably the premier sporting goods destination in Santa Clarita. Their Valencia location offers the largest selection, most knowledgeable staff, and most comprehensive basketball department in the SCV.

What They Offer

Basketball Footwear:

• Extensive selection: 50+ different models in stock

• All major brands: Nike, Jordan, Adidas, Under Armour, Puma, New Balance

• Full size runs: Youth sizes 3.5Y through Adult 15

• Latest releases: New models typically arrive within weeks of release

• Clearance section: Previous season models at 30-50% off

Training Equipment:

• Complete selection of items from our training equipment guide

• Dribbling goggles, weighted basketballs, agility ladders

• Resistance bands and training aids

• Ball pumps, bags, and accessories

• Shooting machines and rebounders (seasonal)

Basketballs:

• Indoor leather game balls: Wilson Evolution, Spalding TF-1000

• Outdoor composite balls: All price ranges ($15-$60)

• Youth sized balls: Size 5, 6, and 7

• Specialty balls: Weighted, mini, training balls

Apparel:

• Basketball shorts, jerseys, compression gear

• Athletic socks (Stance, Nike Elite, Under Armour)

• Shooting sleeves, arm bands

• Basketball-specific athletic wear

• Team uniform ordering available

Additional Services:

• In-store pickup for online orders

• ScoreCard rewards program (earn points on purchases)

• Price matching (including online retailers)

• Team sales and bulk ordering

• Gift cards

• Serious players needing quality equipment

• Parents wanting to try shoes before buying

• Last-minute purchases (good inventory)

• One-stop shopping for complete basketball needs

• Anyone willing to price match for best deals

Money-Saving Tips

1. Price Match Aggressively Found a shoe cheaper on Nike.com or Amazon? Show the price on your phone and Dick's will match it. This gives you the best of both worlds: online pricing + in-store try-on.

2. Sign Up for ScoreCard Free rewards program earns you points on every purchase. Points convert to discount coupons. You'll also get exclusive coupons via email.

3. Check Clearance First The clearance section at the back of the store often has last year's flagship shoes at 40-50% off. These are still excellent performing shoes.

4. Shop Off-Season Best clearance prices in late summer (clearing spring inventory) and January (after holiday season).

5. Team Discounts If your child plays on a team, ask about team purchase discounts. Buying 5+ of same item often gets 15-20% off.

What Local Parents Say

"Dick's is our go-to for basketball shoes. My son has wide feet and needs to try shoes on. Their selection can't be beat in SCV." - Jennifer M., Valencia

"The staff actually knows basketball. They helped me find the right shoes for my daughter's position and playing style." - Marcus T., Canyon Country

Location & Parking

Located in the Soledad Crossing shopping center off The Old Road. Massive parking lot rarely full. Easy freeway access from 14 or 5.

Pro Tip: Enter through the north entrance (near REI) for closest parking to basketball section.

#2: Big 5 Sporting Goods - Multiple SCV Locations

Valencia Location

Address: 24329 W Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355Phone: (661) 253-1832Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-9pm

Canyon Country Location

Address: 19232 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91351Phone: (661) 252-2136Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-8pm (hours vary), Sun 10am-7:30pm

Website: www.big5sportinggoods.com

Overview

Big 5 Sporting Goods is the budget-conscious family's best friend in Santa Clarita. With two convenient locations, Big 5 offers solid basic basketball equipment at consistently lower prices than Dick's. While selection is smaller, the value proposition is strong.

What They Offer

Basketball Footwear:

• 20-30 models typically in stock

• Focus on value brands and previous season models

• Major brands: Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, AND1, Spalding

• Youth sizes well-stocked

• Frequent sales (20-30% off common)

Training Equipment:

• Basic training aids at budget prices

• Jump ropes: $6-12 (vs. $15-20 elsewhere)

• Cones: $8-12 for 10-pack

• Agility ladders: $15-25

• Resistance bands: $10-20

• Good selection of basics

Basketballs:

• Budget-friendly options: $15-30

• Wilson, Spalding, AND1 house brands

• Good selection of outdoor balls

• Youth sizes available

• Adequate for recreational play

Apparel:

• Athletic shorts: $12-25

• Basic basketball gear

• Socks, headbands, wristbands

• Compression gear (limited)

• Team pack deals

Best For

• Budget-conscious families

• Kids who grow fast (don't want to spend $100 on shoes they'll outgrow in 6 months)

• Recreational players

• Buying training basics (cones, jump ropes, etc.)

• Parents who know exactly what they want

Money-Saving Tips

1. Email Sign-Up Get 20% off coupon immediately, plus weekly sale notifications. This is non-negotiable—do this before shopping.

2. Stack Sales + Coupons Wait for sale items, then apply your coupon. Can get 40-50% off retail.

3. Price Compare First Know Amazon prices before shopping. Big 5 often matches or beats online prices on basics.

4. Check Both Locations Valencia and Canyon Country stores sometimes have different inventory. Call ahead to check stock.

5. End-of-Season Clearance March-April and August-September have deepest discounts (30-50% off).

What Local Parents Say

"Big 5 is perfect for my 8-year-old. He grows so fast that spending $100 on shoes makes no sense. Big 5 has good quality at half the price." - Sandra L., Saugus

"Their sales are amazing. I got my son's entire practice wardrobe for under $60." - David K., Valencia

Location Notes

Valencia location: Larger, better stocked, easier parkingCanyon Country location: Smaller but less crowded, friendlier staff (per reviews)

#3: Amazon (Online with Fast SCV Delivery)

Website: www.amazon.comDelivery: Prime 1-2 day delivery to most of Santa ClaritaReturns: 30-day free returns

Overview

While not a physical store, Amazon deserves inclusion because of its massive selection, competitive pricing, customer reviews, and fast delivery to Santa Clarita. Most SCV residents can get equipment within 1-2 days with Prime membership.

What Amazon Offers

Unmatched Selection:

• Every basketball shoe model available

• Thousands of training products

• Specialty items not in local stores

• International brands

• Hard-to-find sizes

Competitive Pricing:

• Often 10-30% cheaper than retail

• Lightning deals and daily sales

• Subscribe & Save options (5-15% off recurring purchases)

• Used/renewed options for big savings

Customer Reviews:

• Read real experiences before buying

• See photos from actual customers

• Filter by verified purchases

• Ask questions, get answers from owners

Convenience:

• Shop 24/7 from home

• Compare products instantly

• Save items to wish lists

• Quick reordering

Best For

• Experienced buyers who know what they need

• Specialty items not in local stores

• Price-conscious shoppers willing to research

• Recurring purchases (socks, accessories)

• Supplementing local shopping

How to Shop Amazon Smart

1. Use Product Links from Blog Post #1 We've researched and linked to quality products. Start there.

2. Filter by "Prime" and "4+ Stars" Eliminates low-quality products and slow shipping.

3. Read Reviews Carefully Look for "Verified Purchase" reviews. Read 3-star reviews (most honest).

4. Check Multiple Sellers Same product often available from multiple sellers. Compare prices and shipping.

5. Use CamelCamelCamel Track price history. Only buy when prices are lowest.

6. Buy from "Shipped and Sold by Amazon" Reduces counterfeit risk significantly.

7. Know Your Size Use Dick's/Big 5 to try on shoes, then buy online if significantly cheaper.

Prime Membership Value

Cost: $139/year ($14.95/month)Break-Even: Save $15+ on 10 purchases/year

For SCV Basketball Families, You Get:

• Free 2-day shipping (saves $10-15/order)

• Prime Video (entertainment)

• Prime Day deals (massive savings 2x/year)

• Early access to Lightning Deals

• Free returns

Tip: Share with family member (Amazon Household) to split cost.

What Local Parents Say

"I use Dick's to try on shoes, then buy on Amazon if it's more than $20 cheaper. No guilt—that's smart shopping." - Anonymous, SCV Mom Facebook Group

"Amazon has specialty training equipment Big 5 and Dick's don't carry. It's my go-to for unique training aids." - Coach Mike, Valencia

#4: Play It Again Sports - Valencia (Used/New Equipment)

Address: 25834 McBean Parkway, Santa Clarita, CAPhone: (661) 286-9901Website: Play It Again Sports Store Locator

Overview

Play It Again Sports is SCV's premiere buy/sell/trade sporting goods store. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, environmental sustainability, or want to sell outgrown equipment, this is your spot.

What They Offer

Used Basketball Equipment:

• Gently used basketball shoes: $20-50 (vs. $80-150 new)

• Training equipment: Often 50-70% off retail

• Basketballs in good condition

• Basketball hoops (portable)

• Apparel and gear

New Equipment:

• Select new items at competitive prices

• Can special order products

• Some exclusive brands

Trade-In Program:

• Bring your used equipment for cash or store credit

• Great for kids who've outgrown gear

• Accepted: Shoes (good condition), equipment, apparel

Best For

• Budget-conscious families

• Environmentally conscious shoppers

• Parents with multiple athletes

• Kids in growth spurts (6-12 years old especially)

• Trying new sports without big investment

How to Shop Play It Again Sports

1. Visit Frequently Inventory turns over weekly. Check back often for best selection.

2. Inspect Thoroughly They let you examine everything. Check shoes for wear, test equipment.

3. Know What You're Looking For Call ahead to ask about specific items/sizes.

4. Trade Smart Bring gently used equipment in spring/summer for best credit (high demand).

5. Ask About Incoming Inventory Staff knows what's coming in. They can alert you when specific items arrive.

Trade-In Tips

What They Accept:

• Basketball shoes (clean, good condition, no major wear)

• Training equipment (functional, clean)

• Basketballs (good tread, holds air)

• Apparel (clean, no stains/tears)

What They Pay:

• Cash: 30% of their resale price

• Store Credit: 40% of their resale price

• Store credit is better deal if you're buying something

Maximize Value:

• Clean everything thoroughly

• Bring original boxes for shoes (increases value)

• Bundle multiple items

• Trade when they're low on your item type

What Local Parents Say

"Play It Again is a lifesaver for our family of three basketball players. The savings are enormous." - Rachel B., Canyon Country

"My son tried basketball for the first time. I spent $40 at Play It Again instead of $200 elsewhere. When he loved it, we upgraded." - Tom S., Valencia

#5: Local Pro Shops & Specialty Retailers

While not as prominent as Dick's or Big 5, Santa Clarita has several smaller retailers and pro shops that occasionally carry basketball equipment:

Options to Explore

Target - Multiple SCV Locations

• Basic basketball equipment section

• Limited but adequate selection

• Good for basketballs, basic training items

• Convenient if already shopping there

• Competitive pricing on basics

Walmart - Santa Clarita

• Budget basketball gear

• Very limited selection

• Rock-bottom prices

• Good for: Cheap outdoor balls, basic equipment

• Not recommended for shoes (poor selection)

Academy Sports (If shopping in nearby areas)

• Similar to Dick's but 20 minutes outside SCV

• Good selection

• Competitive pricing

• Worth the drive if making a special trip

Local Team Sports Suppliers

• Custom jersey shops

• Team equipment suppliers

• Usually wholesale/bulk only

• Ask your child's team about access

When to Use Smaller Retailers

Store Comparison Chart

Price Key

• $ = Most Affordable

• $$ = Moderate

• $$$ = Premium Pricing (but best selection)

Smart Shopping Strategy for SCV Basketball Families

The Hybrid Approach (Best Value + Selection)

For Basketball Shoes:

1. Visit Dick's to try on 3-5 models

2. Note exact model names and sizes that fit

3. Check Amazon for 20%+ cheaper

4. If savings > $20, buy online

5. If within $20, buy at Dick's (price match if needed)

For Training Equipment:

1. Check our equipment guide for recommendations

2. Buy basics (cones, jump rope) at Big 5 with coupons

3. Buy specialty items (weighted balls, good resistance bands) on Amazon

4. Check Play It Again for used gear first

For Basketballs:

1. Indoor leather (game): Dick's or Amazon

2. Outdoor recreational: Big 5 (best prices)

3. Training/specialty: Amazon only

For Apparel:

1. Check Big 5 weekly ad first

2. Supplement with Dick's clearance

3. Amazon for brand-specific needs

Annual Shopping Calendar

January-February:

• Clearance at all stores (post-holiday)

• Best time for equipment purchases

• Start planning for summer camps

March-April:

• Spring sales begin

• Good time for training equipment

• Prep for AAU/travel season

May-June:

• Buy summer camp gear

• Outdoor basketball equipment

• Get shoes before summer growth spurt

July-August:

• Back-to-school sales

• Summer clearance

• Stock up before fall season

September-October:

• Fall season begins

• Buy cold-weather gear

• School season equipment

November-December:

• Black Friday/Cyber Monday

• Holiday sales

• Plan ahead for growth

Common Shopping Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Buying Shoes Too Big

"He'll grow into them" never works. Shoes too large cause:

• Blisters

• Reduced performance

• Twisted ankles

• Bad habits forming

Solution: Buy proper fit now. Expect to replace every 6-12 months for growing kids.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Return Policies

Keep all receipts and packaging for 30 days minimum.

Why: Shoes may feel fine in store but hurt after first practice. Equipment may not work as expected.

Mistake #3: Buying Too Much Too Soon

Start with essentials, add gradually.

Starter Package: Shoes, ball, basic training equipment ($150-200 total)

Don't Buy: Complete outfit, every training device, premium everything

Mistake #4: Prioritizing Brand Over Fit

Nike isn't always best for YOUR child's foot.

Solution: Try multiple brands. The best shoe is the one that fits your child's foot perfectly.

Mistake #5: Not Shopping Sales

Paying full price means wasting money.

Solution: Follow stores on social media, sign up for emails, check ads weekly.

Mistake #6: Buying Without Research

Impulse purchases often disappoint.

Solution: Read reviews, ask coaches, consult guides like this one.

Questions to Ask Store Staff

Whether at Dick's, Big 5, or elsewhere, good staff will answer these questions. If they can't (or won't), consider shopping elsewhere.

About Shoes:

1. "Which shoes do you recommend for my child's position?"

2. "What's the return policy if these don't work after first practice?"

3. "Do you have this model in the clearance section?"

4. "Can you price match this online price?"

5. "How should these fit? Tight or room to grow?"

About Equipment:

1. "What's most popular with local youth teams?"

2. "What's the difference between these two products?"

3. "Do you have this in stock regularly?"

4. "Any upcoming sales on basketball equipment?"

5. "What would you buy for your own child?"

Red Flags (Bad Answers):

• "Whatever's most expensive is best"

• "Buy a size larger so he grows into it"

• "We don't price match"

• "This brand is way better" (without explaining why)

• Pushy behavior without listening to needs

Final Recommendations by Shopper Type

Budget-Conscious Family

Primary: Big 5 (with coupons)Secondary: Play It Again SportsOnline: Amazon for reviews before buying

Strategy: Wait for sales, buy basics, trade used gear

Serious Competitive Player

Primary: Dick's (best selection)Online: Amazon (specialty equipment)Supplement: Nike.com, Adidas.com direct

Strategy: Quality over price, but still price match

First-Time Basketball Parent

Primary: Dick's (expert guidance)Secondary: Big 5 (affordable start)Online: Amazon (research reviews)

Strategy: Start basic, upgrade as kid commits

Growing Youth Player (Ages 8-13)

Primary: Play It Again (trade-in program)Secondary: Big 5 (affordable)Online: Amazon (when you know size)

Strategy: Don't overspend on items they'll outgrow quickly

Multi-Child Athletic Family

Primary: Costco occasional dealsSecondary: Big 5 bulk purchasesOnline: Amazon Subscribe & Save

Strategy: Buy in bulk, trade equipment between kids

Conclusion: Your SCV Shopping Game Plan

Santa Clarita offers excellent options for basketball equipment shopping. The key to maximizing value is understanding each store's strengths and shopping strategically.

The Smart SCV Shopper:

• Uses Dick's for trying on and expert advice

• Buys basics at Big 5 with coupons

• Leverages Amazon for specialty items and price comparison

• Trades outgrown gear at Play It Again Sports

• Never pays full price when alternatives exist

• Researches before buying

• Keeps receipts for returns

Your Action Steps:

1. Assess Needs: List what your player actually needs

2. Set Budget: Determine spending limits

3. Research: Use our equipment guide and read reviews

4. Visit Stores: Try on shoes, see products in person

5. Price Compare: Check online prices before buying

6. Purchase Smart: Use coupons, sales, price matching

7. Keep Receipts: Test equipment, return if needed

Remember: The best store is the one that fits YOUR specific situation. There's no single "best" for everyone. Consider your budget, your child's commitment level, your time availability, and your shopping preferences.

Have questions about where to buy specific basketball equipment in SCV? Drop a comment below or email contact@scvbasketball.com.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with other Santa Clarita basketball parents!

Last Updated: November 18, 2025Store information subject to change. Call ahead to verify hours and inventory.