Have your foot measured at an athletic shoe store. All brands of shoes will vary slightly in size. For example, a size 12 Nike shoe may be slightly wider or shorter than a size 12 Reebok shoe. Be sure that you measure the length and width of your foot to determine the correct size.
Select a lightweight shoe for fast movement. A lightweight shoe may also have a lower ankle support, or a "mid-top." This is ideal if you perform more pivoting and running than jumping.
Select a shoe with high ankle support if you're taller than 6-foot-4 or if you have thin legs. Typically, players taller than average or those with thin legs will need more ankle support for better balance. All basketball shoes should be considered "high-tops" and cover the ankle, because ankle support is very critical in the game.
Lace up the shoes properly when you try them on, then walk around in the store to ensure that you have a comfortable fit. If the shoe feels too tight at the toe or squeezes your foot, you should select a wider or longer size--or a different brand of shoe. Jump up and down, and pivot when you try on the shoes. You'll be performing these maneuvers a lot, so if the shoe feels comfortable as you perform the moves in the store, then they should be a good choice.