Dunk Calculator
Find out if you can dunk a basketball by calculating your max reach height versus the 10-foot rim. Enter your standing reach and vertical jump.
Reviewed October 7, 2026 Runs in your browser — inputs are never stored
This tool provides general sports and fitness estimates for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice — consult a physician before starting or intensifying training, especially if you have a cardiovascular condition.
About the Dunk Calculator
The dunk calculator checks whether you can reach above a regulation 10-foot (120-inch, 304.8 cm) rim. It adds your standing reach and your vertical jump to get your maximum reach. To dunk comfortably you need several inches above the rim — about 6 inches to dunk a basketball — so the tool also shows how much further you need to go.
How to use it
- 1Choose inches or centimetres.
- 2Measure your standing reach: stand flat-footed and reach one arm straight up.
- 3Enter your vertical jump and press Check Dunk.
Worked example
a standing reach of 96 inches plus a 26-inch vertical gives a maximum reach of 122 inches, just 2 inches above the rim — enough to touch it, but not yet to dunk.
How it works
How It Works
Max Reach = Standing Reach + Vertical Jump. If Max Reach ≥ Rim Height (120 in / 304.8 cm), you can dunk.
Common use cases
- Setting vertical-jump training goals
- Tracking progress toward a first dunk
- Comparing reach with height
Frequently asked questions
A:NBA rims are exactly 10 feet (304.8 cm) above the ground.
A:Most players need at least 28–35 inches depending on height and standing reach. Taller players with longer arms need less.
A:Stand flat-footed and reach as high as possible with one hand. Measure from floor to fingertips.
A:Plyometric training, squats, box jumps, and calf raises are among the most effective methods.
A:The average untrained adult male jumps about 16–20 inches; NBA players average around 28 inches.
Reviewed for accuracy · Last updated October 7, 2026
Formulas follow published sports-science literature and official league definitions (Karvonen heart rate reserve, Cooper and Bruce protocols, MET compendium values, and standard baseball, cricket, and basketball statistics).
CalcWisee Editorial Team
Calculator development and formula review
CalcWisee is an independent site founded by Ayman. Every calculator is built from a published formula or official definition, tested against hand-worked examples before it goes live, and corrected promptly when a reader reports an issue to ayman@calcwisee.com.
Expertise: Financial mathematics, Health and fitness formulas, Applied mathematics, Unit conversion standards
References & sources