The amount of force required to crush a basketball depends on various factors such as the material and thickness of the basketball, the manner in which the force is applied, and the strength of the object exerting the force.
Generally, basketballs are designed to withstand a significant amount of force and deformation without easily crushing. They are inflated with air to a specific pressure, which helps maintain their shape and resistance to deformation.
To crush a basketball, you would need to exert a force sufficient to overcome the internal pressure within the ball and deform its structure. This force can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances.
It's worth noting that attempting to crush a basketball forcefully by, for example, using mechanical means or applying excessive force, can be dangerous and may lead to injury. Basketball players should always use basketballs as intended and avoid applying excessive force that could result in damage or harm.