Abstract: The present invention is a system for joining tubes in a structure. The system includes hollow tubes and pressure assemblies. The tubes have tool holes spaced from the ends which are to be joined together. The pressure assemblies include members which can be spread apart by threaded inserts threaded into one of the members. The threaded inserts are spaced to correspond to the spacing between the tool holes as occurs when the tube ends are placed together. Accordingly, a pressure assembly can be inserted into adjacent tube ends and then expanded with sufficient expanding force for joining the tube ends in a rigid, strong joint. The system of the present invention may be used to make highly versatile and portable structures such as soccer goals, American football uprights and basketball goals.

Abstract: A basketball breakaway goal release apparatus, is designed to allow a basketball rim to pivot down under excessive pressure and reset to a normal horizontal playing position. The basketball breakaway goal release apparatus includes 1) a main support base assembly; 2) a basketball goal support assembly pivotally connected along an upper rear edge to the main support base assembly and 3) a positive release actuator mechanism operably mounted to the main support base assembly and the basketball goal support assembly. The positive release actuator mechanism includes a rocker arm assembly pivotally connected at one end to the main support base assembly and engageable with a roller track assembly under adjustable force of a compression spring member. After excess pressure is applied, the rocker arm assembly pivots relative to the roller track assembly to allow the downward pivotal movement of the basketball rim assembly.

Abstract: A breakover basketball goal release mechanism attached to a basketball backboard member so that a basketball rim member is automatically pivoted when an excessive pressure is applied and, after breakover, resets itself. The breakover basketball goal release mechanism includes: 1) a main support base assembly; 2) a basketball rim and support assembly pivotally connected along one edge to the main support base assembly; and 3) a breakover actuator assembly operably mounted between the main support base assembly and the basketball rim and support assembly. The breakover actuator assembly includes a breakover arm assembly having upper and lower breakover arm members which, when closely aligned with each other, prevents release of the basketball rim member until a preset pressure is applied. The breakover actuator assembly operates to cushion movement of the basketball member rim to the breakover condition. A second embodiment achieves superior breakover pressure release and adjustment features.

Abstract: The portable mounting stand apparatus of this invention is adapted to receive a ball return apparatus for the like thereon and provide means for ease of movement from a portable transport condition to a rigid usage condition. The portable mounting stand apparatus includes a main support base assembly; a forward base support assembly secured to a forward portion of the main support base assembly; and a rearward base support assembly connected to a rear portion of the main support base assembly. The forward and rearward base support assemblies are each provided with support wheel assemblies to contact a support surface for ease of movability in the transport position. The rearward base includes a pivotal stationary support assembly having a pivotal stand support assembly which is selectively actuated to move support leg assemblies into and out of contact with the support surface.

Abstract: A backboard reinforcing apparatus operable to transfer forces against a basketball goal assembly to a main support frame to prevent breakage of a main glass backboard member. The backboard reinforcing apparatus includes the main glass backboard member supported about its outer periphery by a backboard and main support assembly; a transverse frame and goal support assembly connected to the backboard and main support assembly; and the basketball goal assembly connected to the transverse frame and goal assembly. Shocks are prevented from entering the main backboard member through the embodiments of (1) the use of a threaded goal support anchor members threaded into a goal support plate member and vertical support plate members to maintain positive spacing there between; and (2) the use of spacer members between a vertical anchor plate and a front goal mount plate to maintain the desired spacing.