Im a bit late to reply but you have gotten some good info so far. The only thing I'll add is about tubs.. I saw someone with an add on CL for a ball python. They said they would not sell it to anyone who planned on keeping it in a "breeders tub" because they thought this was cruel and wrong. I was so tempted to email them but I knew it would be worthless. There are alot of reasons tubs are better. Being able to better control proper heat and humidity are a huge plus. The biggest reason they are not even remotely cruel for ball pythons is the fact that these snakes spend most of their lives in a burrow under ground. Ball pythons are very shy and secretive. They prefer a small, dark, tight enclosure. Many females will rarely if ever leave the den. They prefer to wait for a meal to happen by. If they do leave it is only at night and they do not travel far. This is why it is better to house them in the smallest possible enclosure. It mimics their natural den. It helps to keep them calm and feeding regularly. This is also why it is better to have small, tight fitting hides.

Aquariums can be used but the proper hides are a must. Lots of clutter in the tank so they do not feel like they are in the open. Ball pythons do not make good display animals. It sounds like you are doing all your research and you want the best for your new snake. When you get it be sure you post pics and keep us updated