Great — here’s a concise guide to picking the best basketball shoes for ankle support plus specific recommendations and tips.

What to look for (features that improve ankle support)

• High or mid cut: higher collars give more passive support around the ankle.
• Firm heel counter and cup: keeps your heel locked and prevents excessive roll.
• Secure lockdown system: multi-zone lacing, straps, or internal sleeves that pull the foot into the midsole.
• Stiff, stable midsole/plate: prevents excessive torsion that can lead to ankle rolls.
• Good traction and a stable base: wide outsole and solid traction pattern reduce sliding and sudden foot shifts.
• Proper fit: snug (not painful) around midfoot and heel; some room in the toe box.

Shoe types and examples

• Maximum ankle protection (best if you already have ankle issues or want extra prevention)
  • High-top, heavily cushioned shoes with a rigid heel — examples: Nike LeBron line (LeBron signature models are designed for heavy support), high-cut Air Jordan models (retro highs and modern high-cut designs).
• Balance of support + mobility (most players prefer these)
  • Mid-cut modern sneakers with strong lockdown systems — many signature shoes offer this balance (Jordan mids, some New Balance basketball models, and supportive Adidas/Nike mids).
• Low-cut shoes (less ankle coverage but some are still supportive)
  • Low-cuts with excellent lockdown and stiff plates can be OK if you prioritize speed — but they give less passive ankle protection. If you pick low-cut, consider using an external ankle brace or tape.

Brand/model recommendations (good starting points)

• Nike LeBron series — consistently among the most supportive, high-cut models with firm heel cups and excellent lockdown.
• Air Jordan high/mid models — many have a stable platform and solid ankle collars; Jordan signature mids often balance support and playability.
• New Balance basketball (including Kawhi Leonard signature releases) — known for stable midsoles and good lockdown.
• Under Armour supportive models (and some HOVR lines) — often engineered for lockdown and heel stability.
• If you’re on a budget look for older model high/mid shoes from the above brands — they often retain great support at lower prices.

Fit & usage tips

• Try them on with the socks you play in and lace them as you would on court. Walk, jump, and make quick cuts in the store if possible.
• Heel should not slip; heel slip increases ankle injury risk.
• Break them in gradually — a very stiff shoe can feel awkward at first but may be stabilizing.
• If you’ve had prior ankle sprains, combine a supportive shoe with preventive measures: ankle brace or taping during play, balance/strength exercises for peroneals and calves.
• Replace shoes when midsole support wears out (cushion and stability degrade even if outsole looks okay).

Short recommendation by player type

• Post player / physical style: high-cut, heavily cushioned models (e.g., LeBron-type).
• Wing / guard who needs some speed but wants protection: mid-cut shoes with strong lockdown (Jordan mids, New Balance mids).
• Fast guard who prioritizes mobility: low-cut with excellent lockdown + consider an ankle brace.

If you want, tell me:

• your height/weight and playing position, or
• whether you’ve had prior ankle injuries, and I’ll recommend 2–3 specific models (current best buys) and the right size/fit adjustments for you.