Basketball Cheers

Spalding 88348 In-Ground Basketball System with 48-Inch Eco-Composite Fan Backboard Enjoy years of recreational basketball fun in your backyard with the Spalding residential in-ground basketball system (model 88348), which offers the Exacta-Height lift system for adjustment between 7.5 and 10.5 feet. It’s matched with a 48-inch, fan-shaped Eco-Composite backboard (made from recycled materials), and it includes a 5/8-inch solid steel Slam-Jam breakaway rim and an all-weather net. It offers a a three-piece pole construction made of 3.5-inch round steel as well as a ground sleeve for easy installation and removal and a powder coated matte black finish. It’s backed by an 8-year limited warranty.

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.

Lifetime 3823 Rectangular Impact Basketball 44-Inch Backboard and Rim Combo Hone your jumpshot in your driveway or invite some friends over for some spirited two-on-two with the Lifetime Impact 44-inch backboard and rim combo. The molded blackboard is made of high-density polyethylene, making it tough enough to withstand the demands of aggressive play. The black classic rim, meanwhile, includes a series of welded steel net hooks that securely hold the all-weather nylon net. Finally, all the graphics on the backboard are screen printed with UV-protected ink, guaranteeing fade-resistant color. The backboard and rim are backed by a five-year warranty.

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.

Spalding Youth NBA Portable Basketball System with 32-inch EcoComposite Fan Backboard Introduce your kids to basketball at a young age with the Spalding Youth portable basketball system, which features an easily adjustable telescoping backboard that can be set 4.5 to 6 feet in height. It’s a great choice for use with a size 3 junior basketball, and it can be used both indoors and outdoors. The three-piece, 2-inch diameter pole system assembles and breaks down quickly, and the base is stabilized with either sand or water (and includes a built-in holder for the ball). It’s matched with a 32-inch fan-shaped Eco-Composite backboard (made from recycled materials) and 14-inch solid steel rim.

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.

Customer Review: Huffy youth basketball hoop
I thought this would be a stronger hoop than the fisher price ones, but I was wrong. The backboard is made of really thin cheap plastic that cracks very easily. The pump to blow up the basketball is also cheaply made and broke after a couple of uses. The small basketball that came with this set also needed air every day. I purchased this for my 3 year old and it only lasted one month.
Customer Review: Great item
We bought this for our 4 year old son for his birthday. He loves it. His daddy and him are outside all the time playing basketball. The height is just right and he still has plenty of time to grow into it. The price was also very good for what I have been looking for.

Schutt Sports Slam Series C3000 Height-Adjustable Portable Basketball System with 54 Inch Clear Glass Backboard Perfect for any school, college, multi-purpose building, or church, the Schutt Sports Slam Series C3000 aluminum framed 54-inch portable basketball system requires no tools to collapse the unit and easily pass it through a doorway without full disassembly. The super-glide, spring-assisted, one-lever height-adjustment mechanism allows you to raise the goal from 6′6″ to 10′ easily. The base measures 48 inches wide and 62 inches deep, and it features self-leveling polyurethane pads that won’t damage any floor surface. It requires a ballast of 400 pounds (recommended materials–bricks, patio blocks, sand bags).

It comes with a 54-inch wide clear glass backboard that’s securely bonded into a welded aluminum frame and has standard black backboard padding. It also includes the Bully Jr. breakaway rim, which has a single spring design with reliable flex return action. Other features include an all-weather basketball net, pole pad to prevent accidental injuries, and powder-coated finish to prevent fading and rust.

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.

Spalding 88351 In-Ground Basketball System with 44-Inch PolyCarbonate Backboard Bring home years of basketball fun with the Spalding residential in-ground basketball system (model 88351), featuring the Exacta-Height lift system for adjustment between 7.5 and 10.5 feet. It offers a a three-piece pole construction made of 3.5-inch square steel as well as a ground sleeve for easy installation and removal and a powder coated matte black finish. Other features include a durable, 44-inch wide poly-carbonate backboard, 5/8-inch solid steel Slam-Jam breakaway rim, and an all-weather net. It’s backed by an 8-year limited warranty.

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.

Customer Review: Economical choice for in-ground basketball hoop
I was skeptical of any basketball hoop for under $200, but this Spalding model has proven to be a solid economical choice. The assembly and set-up time took me longer than anticipated, and filling the pole with concrete was not an easy task (don’t follow the directions, set the pole up first, then dump the concrete in), but overall I am satisfied with the purchase.

Spalding 72307 Portable Basketball System with 52-Inch PolyCarbonate Backboard Enjoy years of recreational basketball fun in your backyard with the Spalding residential portable basketball system (model 72307), which features a 37.5-gallon Hercules base that fills with water or sand for stability. It offers a three-piece, 3.5-inch diameter silver pole and EZ Touch lift system providing accurate height adjustment from 7.5 feet to 10 feet. It’s matched with a 52-inch steel-framed poly-carbonate backboard, 5/8-inch solid steel Pro-Slam breakaway rim, and all-weather net.

Portable basketball systems depend on a base filled with sand or water for stability. Although it will take up more space than an in-ground system, the portable base rolls on wheels, allowing players to position the basketball system in the desired location (and also allowing storage in a garage). Simply assemble, fill the base and play today. There is no fussing with concrete.

Manufacturer’s Warranty
5-year limited warranty

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.

Customer Review: Basketball System
The order took six weeks to ship. After I removed the parts from the box I noticed the backboard was broken. The return went smooth as they resent within a few days. However, the rim is rather cheap and one of the net holders broke off within the first month.
Customer Review: Lower Expectations
I recently purchased this Basketball System and in the process of putting it together (which isn’t too difficult) I had left the backboard laying on the grass for 2 hours in 90 degree heat. When it was time to attach the backboard on the pole I realized that it was warped! After examining the thickness of the polycarbonate I was very disappointed to see that it was extremely thin. I haven’t taken any shots on the backboard yet but I don’t anticipate that it will be very solid. The good news is Spalding Cust. Service was extremely accomodating and is sending a new backboard at no expense to me (which is why I am giving it 3 stars vs. 1). This system will be fine for children (ages 4-12) but I do not expect that it will perform well under higher level play. If I were to do it over again I would spend significantly less or significantly more depending on the anticipated use.

Huffy 65304 Portable Basketball System with 44-Inch Eco-Composite Backboard Enjoy years of recreational basketball fun with Huffy’s portable basketball system (model 65304), which features a 44-inch eco-composite backboard made of recycled material, a 14-gallon base that fills with water or sand for stability, and a standard rim. It also offers a telescoping pole that adjusts from 8 feet to 10 feet in six inch increments and is supported by a 2.75-in steel pole.

Lifetime 3279 Shatter Guard Fusion Basketball 48-Inch Backboard and Rim Combo Hone your jumpshot in your driveway or invite some friends over for some spirited two-on-two with the Lifetime Shatter Guard Fusion 48-inch backboard and rim combo. The backboard–which integrates a clear playing surface with a high-impact polyethylene frame–is made of Makrolon polycarbonate, which is virtually unbreakable and 30 times stronger than acrylic. As a result, broken backboards are a thing of the past, even from errant rocks and other non-basketball threats. In addition, the board offers a patent-pending UV treatment that prevents yellowing over time. The black Slam-It Rim, meanwhile, is designed specifically for players who like to throw down. The rim features double-compression springs that give way during dunks to protect the player, then spring back once released. Other features include fade-resistant UV-protected graphics, a nylon net, and a five-year warranty.

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.

Lifetime 1225 Pro Court Height-Adjustable Portable Basketball System with 44-Inch Backboard Fun for the entire family, this portable basketball system can go anywhere you want to shoot hoops. This system features a 44-inch backboard, three pieces of 3-inch round black telescoping pole sections, a black classic rim, and a 27 gallon portable base. The backboard is constructed of high-density polyethylene, making it durable and rugged to withstand the elements. The rim features a 5/8-inch solid steel ring and is supported by 1/2-inch braces; the all-weather nylon net is long-lasting. The telescoping pole adjusts the rim height from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments without the use of tools. To stabilize the base, a 27-gallon capacity (about 234 pounds of water or 364 pounds of sand) allow for a stable foundation.

Portable basketball systems depend on a base filled with sand or water for stability. Although it will take up more space than an in-ground system, the portable base rolls on wheels, allowing players to position the basketball system in the desired location (and also allowing storage in a garage). Simply assemble, fill the base, and star shooting some hoops. There is no fussing with concrete.

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.

Customer Review: Good unit for the price
I took less than an hour by myself to put this together. I felt the directions were clear. I use it daily and have no issues with it. It was a good price and with free shipping it was wonderful.
Customer Review: Very Pleased
My basketball goal arrived quicker than expected. It was easy to assemble and the kids were shooting hoops in no time. I feel like a got a good deal and it’s something the whole family enjoys. I would definately recommend this product. Very pleased with my purchase.

Lifetime 3823 Rectangular Impact Basketball 44-Inch Backboard and Rim Combo Hone your jumpshot in your driveway or invite some friends over for some spirited two-on-two with the Lifetime Impact 44-inch backboard and rim combo. The molded blackboard is made of high-density polyethylene, making it tough enough to withstand the demands of aggressive play. The black classic rim, meanwhile, includes a series of welded steel net hooks that securely hold the all-weather nylon net. Finally, all the graphics on the backboard are screen printed with UV-protected ink, guaranteeing fade-resistant color. The backboard and rim are backed by a five-year warranty.

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.

Lifetime 3279 Shatter Guard Fusion Basketball 48-Inch Backboard and Rim Combo Hone your jumpshot in your driveway or invite some friends over for some spirited two-on-two with the Lifetime Shatter Guard Fusion 48-inch backboard and rim combo. The backboard–which integrates a clear playing surface with a high-impact polyethylene frame–is made of Makrolon polycarbonate, which is virtually unbreakable and 30 times stronger than acrylic. As a result, broken backboards are a thing of the past, even from errant rocks and other non-basketball threats. In addition, the board offers a patent-pending UV treatment that prevents yellowing over time. The black Slam-It Rim, meanwhile, is designed specifically for players who like to throw down. The rim features double-compression springs that give way during dunks to protect the player, then spring back once released. Other features include fade-resistant UV-protected graphics, a nylon net, and a five-year warranty.

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.