One long-running debate we've had is why the WNBA has so many turnovers, and so many turnovers relative to the NBA.

One occasional answer batted around is that the WNBA ball is hard to handle. The "orange and oatmeal" WNBA ball is made not with leather but with Spalding's "microfiber composite."

The NBA has always stuck with the traditional leather. Until now. When Stern decided that the boys should use composite also. Because it is easier for Spalding.

The verdict?

NBA players absolutely hate it. Contrary to the corporate spin, the composite feels more slippery when wet, and it feels sticky when dry. Rasheed Wallace calls it "terrible." Shaq says it "feels like one of those cheap balls that you buy at the toy store, indoor-outdoor balls."

It's unclear whether the NBA will relent and go back to leather. If it does, maybe the women should have the same option.