For the basketball fans, a new official NBA ball will be rolled out the next 2006-2007 season. This marks the very first change of ball in over 35 years!

Developed by Spalding and featuring the Spalding’s Cross Traxxion™ technology, it sports a new design and supposedly much better grip, feel and consistency.

“The design is comprised of two interlocking, cross-shaped panels rather than the eight oblong panels found on traditional basketballs. As a result, there is more material coverage. The material is a microfiber composite with moisture management that provides superior grip and feel throughout the course of a game. Additionally, the new composite material eliminates the need for a break-in period, which is necessary for the current leather ball, and achieves consistency from ball to ball.”

There you go, some geek-talk to impress your NBA-crazed friends.

The ball will be on sale at the beginning of the new season in October, at a sky-high price of $99.99.