Hone your jumpshot in your spare moments or perform a backyard dunking drill with this Lifetime portable basketball system. Unlike in-ground basketball hoops--which are typically anchored in concrete--the portable hoop rolls on wheels, letting you position the basket support in any desired location, from the back patio to the middle of the cul-de-sac. All you have to do is fill the polyethylene base with water or sand and play. Lifetime knows that dunking and above-the-rim play are a huge part of modern basketball, which is why the hoop comes with both a height adjustment mechanism and a spring-back rim. The three-piece, 3.5-inch Power Lift pole includes a pneumatic mechanism to help you easily raise and lower the backboard from 7.5 to 10 feet with one hand. Thanks to the handy technology, players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the game on their own terms, while aspiring dunkers can gradually raise the level an inch at a time as their vertical improves. The arena-style Slam-It Rim, meanwhile, is designed specifically for players who like to throw down. The solid-steel rim features wraparound bracing and double-compression springs that give way during dunks to protect the player, then spring back once released. The orange rim is also supported by 1/2-inch braces, with welded-steel net hooks and an all-weather nylon net.
And players needn't worry about the backboard shattering after a nasty spill, as the 54-inch Shatter Guard backboard boasts Makrolon polycarbonate technology that's virtually unbreakable. Other features include fade-resistant graphics screen-printed onto the backboard with UV-resistant inks, rigid rectangular extension arms that provide superior backboard rebound, a blow-molded frame pad for protection, and a powder-coated, rust-resistant finish around the pole. The hoop carries a five-year warranty that covers everything on the system.
Amazon.com Basketball System Buying Guide
With the high-quality construction of many portable basketball systems, turning your driveway into a basketball court can be as simple as hooking up your garden hose. But while a portable system may ultimately be your best choice, there are reasons you may want to consider an in-ground or wall-mount system before you decide.
In-Ground Systems
In-ground systems are permanently cemented into the ground--either via a bolt mounting kit or directly into the ground--and are generally more rigid and take up less space than portables. In-ground systems often require that you hire a professional to complete the task, but when the cement dries you'll have a hoop that can take punishing dunks with ease.
Many in-ground systems are height-adjustable, include removable post features that let you take the system down for off-season storage, and feature heavy-duty break-away rims. You'll also want to research the adjustable mechanisms on the systems, as there are several types to choose from. Some feature a counter-balance spring that lets you perform easy, one-hand adjustments while others may feature a sturdy, pneumatic system.
Wall-Mount Systems
Wall-mount systems can be mounted to the side of a house, a tall retaining wall, or a garage. Generally sturdier than portables, wall-mounts have the added advantage of optimizing your existing ground space for the court, since you won't take any space up with the base or pole. Not all systems include the necessary hardware, so make certain you add a mounting kit to your list.
Portable Systems
Portable systems require minimal installation and offer ultimate convenience. These systems generally feature a base that can be filled with sand or water to stabilize them and include wheels for portability. Although they are not as sturdy as in-ground or wall-mounted hoops, portables are simple to set up and can often be folded for convenient storage.
Backboard Considerations
Regardless of which system you choose, you'll want to brush up on Backboards 101. Most residential systems feature backboards made of acrylic, fiberglass, graphite, or various other composite materials. While clear acrylic gives the professional look and feel of glass, it is not as rigid as fiberglass or graphite. Some systems may offer steel or aluminum backboards, which are virtually vandal resistant, but don't offer the true rebounding action.
The regulation size of an NBA backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most portable hoops are 42 or 44 inches wide and 36 inches tall. In-ground systems tend to be a bit larger, with 54-inch and 60-inch widths being the most popular. While rectangular shaped backboards provide more bank shot opportunities, they are generally more expensive than the streamlined fan-shaped board.
