Physicists say they’ve solved basketball’s greatest mystery, and the answer is pure science
Published on: Feb. 26, 2026, 11:54 p.m. | Source: The Economic Times
Physicists have finally solved the mystery behind the squeaky sound of basketball sneakers. High-speed imaging revealed that the noise is caused by rapid 'opening slip pulses' traveling along the rubber sole. Ridged surfaces on the shoes confine these pulses, creating the consistent, musical squeak heard during games.
