The Jordan 2.5's are very good budget and style sneakers, but you would probably not want to play basketball in them. This due to the fact that while it IS a hightop sneaker, the ankle guards are very soft (hence good for casual, non-athletic wear) and do little to brace the ankles. I've sprained both my ankles while unfortunately wearing these to play ball. An average pair of nike airs probably provide more ankle protection. Even lacing it up completely, the shoe is only 'braced' at two small points near ankle and not the ankle itself. Thus purchase for wearing for the look and style, but caution when playing intensely in them.