Abstract: A sport training ball for use underwater includes a resilient spherical body. An internal chamber is positioned within the resilient spherical body and configured to receive a low-density medium having a density less than water. A buoyancy reduction device is positioned within the resilient spherical body and configured to have a density greater than or equal to water.

Abstract: An Electronic Basketball Shooting Coach device is used to recondition the mind helping people maintain the proper elbow angle range when shooting a basketball. The self-contained device is worn on either arm below the elbow of a user. The ergonomically designed device is contained in the specially designed pocket of the sleeve before it can be attached below the elbow. The sleeve wraps around the upper-arm below the elbow and is held in place by hook-and-loop materials. The device has no internal movable parts. The device will articulate a phrase when the programmed non-adjustable trip point range. The device has a sleep mode to save on the common single cell's power and is reactivated by movement. The non-adjustable knob must be positioned up towards the fingers and aligned with the thumb or little finger. Two single cell sources must be added to energize the invention.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a method and apparatus for training a basketball player proper movement of a player's feet. The method includes positioning a stand at a generally central location in front of a player's body, with a first foot slightly ahead of the second. The ball is positioned on the stand, then the player grabs the ball from the stand, steps over the stand, squares up to the basket and shoots the ball.

Abstract: A basketball dribble device is provided that has an upright structure, which may be a rigid semicircular device, a rigid circular device or a rigid square device. Support members keep the device in an upright position.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a novel and unique basketball shooting target removably connected to a basketball goal. The target is an object that includes a female member having a female member core and female outer layer and a male member having a male member core and male outer layer. The female member core includes female lock flanges and female contact surfaces for engaging the male member core. The male member core has buttons that each includes respective cam locks configured for releasable engagement with female lock flanges on a female core to prevent horizontal movement. The male member core has male contact surfaces for engaging the female contact surfaces of the female member to prevent vertical movement. In operation, the male and female members removably connect with one another to engage a netting of a basketball goal and prevent movement relative to one another in horizontal or vertical direction.

Abstract: A disclosed device provides a trajectory detection and feedback system. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched the object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area. In a particular embodiment, a non-intrusive machine vision system that remotely detects trajectories of moving objects may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. The feedback information, such as a trajectory entry angle into the basketball hoop and/or an entry velocity into the hoop for the shot, may be output to the player in an auditory format using a sound projection device. The system may be operable to be set-up and to operate in a substantially autonomous manner.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus related to improving player performance for trajectory-based sports are described. In particular, sporting devices are described that can be utilized to improve player performance in basketball. The sporting devices can include a camera-based system configured to capture and analyze the trajectory of a shot taken by a player. The camera-based system can be configured to provide feedback that allows a player to optimize the trajectory mechanics associated with shooting a basketball. In one embodiment, the camera-based system can be used in conjunction with a training aid that is attached to a basketball rim. The training aid can be configured to improve the trajectory mechanics of individuals utilizing the modified basketball rim to practice their shooting.

Abstract: A muscular memory training apparatus and method of the present invention is used for training basketball players to shoot a ball to a ring from fixed distances. The apparatus provides numerous advantages including improved training aid and method that teaches the players in a correct manner of making a shot with a basketball, develops muscular memory of the body joints and muscles for proper execution of a basketball shot and makes higher percentage of hitting the goal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to glow in the dark luminous attachable basketball rim, somewhat tubular and circular, more particularly, to a flexible luminous glow in the dark, also marked with reflectors positioned equidistantly of each other, to provide better visibility with targeting features to assist the shooter at basketball rims. Currently basketball rims only have a net affixed to them and have no distinguishing features to aim at besides the backboard and do not glow at night.

Abstract: A training game ball is described having cues for visually indicating the rotational alignment of the ball when it is thrown. If the ball is improperly thrown so that the axis of rotation does not stay perpendicular to the direction of flight, then the rotational alignment cue line will appear to wobble as the ball travels. The ball also has a rotational speed cue formed from a plurality of spaced panels arranged parallel with the alignment cue. If the ball is thrown with a high rotational speed, the panels will appear to the player as a solid line. Still further, the ball also includes hand alignment cues for assisting a player in properly positioning his or her hands for throwing the ball. Each of the cues may have a different appearance, so that they may be visually distinguished.

Abstract: To provide a game device capable of allowing a user to feel a difference in state of mind between a player of a winning team and a player of a losing team when defending. A selection unit (56) selects one or more player characters from among the player characters belonging to a team not in possession of a moving object. In a case where control by a first player character control unit (58) is applied, a determination unit (62) determines whether or not a reference period has elapsed after a given reference time. In a case where elapse of the predetermined period after the reference time is determined, a switching unit (66) switches the state in which control by the first player character control unit (58) is applied to a state in which control by a second player character control unit (60) is applied. A reference period data control unit (64) changes the length of the reference period, based on game state information.

Abstract: A basketball training device that mimics an opposing player during practice. The training device has a weighted base set on caster wheels. A vertical support extends upwardly from the base. A slide structure moves up and down on the vertical support between a high position and a low position. A blocking form is coupled to the slide structure. The blocking form moves with the slide structure. Consequently, the blocking form can move up and down. An elongated control rod attaches to the wheeled base. The control rod is used by a coach to push and pull the training device along the basketball court during play. In this manner, a coach can adjust the position of the blocking form to better mimic the movements of a real opposing player.

Abstract: This invention presents a basketball training device which resembles a mannequin that defends against basketball players with a series of blocking motions. When proximity sensor 38 detects an approaching player, control unit 32 initiates waving of forearms 8, raising/lowering of upper arms 54, chopping motion of arms and torso raising/lowering. An audio circuit plays music or realistic background noises. When convex bottom of primary base 16 is placed on a floor, weight of ballast 36 and rechargeable batteries 30 allows the device to return to an upright position when tipped. A gyroscopic unit within control unit 32 can activate when the device tips to ensure return of the device to an upright position. Alternatively, the unit can be placed within secondary base 26, which features castors 34 that allow the unit to roll when stuck and facilitates placement on a basketball court.

Abstract: A training sled including a pair of nonlinear runners of tubular construction arranged in parallel relative to a center axis and a plane. A head crossbar of tubular construction may extend between first ends of the runners and may be joined thereto so as to form a continuous tubular U-shaped member with the runners. A weight bearing member may be affixed to and extend between the pair of nonlinear runners near mid-sections thereof. A rear crossbar of tubular construction may extend between and may be disposed above the plane of the runners proximate second ends thereof and may be joined thereto opposite the head crossbar, so as to present a rearward facing surface against which force may be applied. The training sled may include a removable handlebar in a variety of configurations. A ski accessory may be configured to removably attach to the training sled. The ski accessory may include a pair of nonlinear skis arranged in parallel relative to a center axis and a plane.

Abstract: A system and method for improving a player's efficiency in shooting by providing a player with various shooting challenge routines at which a player makes either a total number of shots or a total number shots in a row. Statistics regarding the player's performance are stored, printed and/or evaluated and the player can use the information to improve his or her efficiency at one or more of the plurality of different locations where the player shoots the basketball.

Abstract: The Basketball free throw practice guide includes a flag that extends vertically from an assembly that attaches onto a basketball rim. The assembly includes a flag base, support, and main base that inter-connect via a bolt or screw. The main base has a groove that is sealed off via the flag base to enclose the cross-section of the basketball rim therein. The assembly is weighted and self-ballasts when installed upon said basketball rim such that the flag will return to a vertical position upon impact by an object such as a basketball. The flag acts as a guide to teach proper basketball trajectory into the basketball rim.

Abstract: An intra-digital orthosis for use in shooting a ball such as a basketball comprising: index and ring finger receptacles each having an aperture; a middle finger backstop; and first and second shafts joining the index and ring finger receptacles to the middle finger backstop. The orthosis preferably spaces apart and/or encourages flexion of the distal phalanges of at least a user's index and ring fingers and/or facilitates an arch angle between those fingers and the user's middle finger that approximates the curvature of the ball being thrown so as to facilitate and enhance the user's ability to position the hand when shooting the ball.

Abstract: Basketball training systems and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a basketball training apparatus includes a first rim and a second rim. The first rim has a center and the second rim has a center. The first rim rotates about its center and the second rim revolves about the center of the first rim.

Abstract: This invention discloses a method and multiple batons intended for sports training and physical therapy. First and second embodiment batons are intended, primarily, as a basketball defensive drill training device. The first embodiment baton is intended, secondarily, as a football hand-coordination training device. The third embodiment baton is intended, primarily, as a football and rugby hand-coordination training device. The second embodiment baton is further intended for use as a hand-coordination or foot-coordination device for other sports using spherical balls, such as soccer and volleyball. Finally, any of the four disclosed batons, and primarily, the first embodiment baton, are further intended to be used by physical therapists in rehabilitation exercises where eye-hand coordination and peripheral vision improvements are targeted, such as is the case with stroke or accident patients.

Abstract: A basketball training device that simulates the presence of a defensive player more specifically the hand of a defensive player so as to provide practice shooting a basketball with at least a partially restricted view of the basketball goal. The basketball training device further includes a support pad that is releasably secured proximate the lower torso region of the user utilizing an adjustable strap. Movably connected to the support pad is a first support member and a second support member. The second support member is hingedly attached to the first support member. The basketball training device further includes a visual inhibitor movably attached to the second support member opposite the first support member. Operably coupled to the second support member distal to the first support member is an activation cord. The activation cord is further connected at the opposing end to at least one finger of the user's dominant shooting hand.

Abstract: The purpose of the shooting aid is to provide the basketball player with a visual trajectory of the correct path from the free throw line to the basketball hoop. The unique Tubular Arc Guide design offers the basketball player one of the most effective methods to increase their ability to make a higher percentage of free throws.

Abstract: A basketball shooting trainer device configured to attach to a basketball rim is provided and includes a bracket comprising at least one interior side wall defining a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, at least one cylindrically-shaped exterior side wall, wherein the exterior side wall has a diameter greater than the diameter of the tubular cavity. Also included is a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the elongated member includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a base wherein the elongated member extends substantially vertically in a substantially perpendicular direction from a horizontal plane defined by the basketball rim. Further included is a base securing hook-and-loop fastener arrangement disposed between the inner surface of the base and the exterior wall of the bracket.

Abstract: The purpose of the shooting aid is to provide the basketball player with a visual trajectory of the correct path from the free throw line to the basketball hoop. The unique Tubular Arc Guide design offers the basketball player one of the most effective methods to increase their ability to make a higher percentage of free throws.

Abstract: A product delivery system for delivering a product from a storage area to a dispensing area, such as for use in a vending machine. The product delivery system may include a vacuum holding device, a robotic positioning system, a reel and cable system, and a controller. A feature is the provision of a picker head with a built-in vacuum generating source that may be carried by a robotically movable arm system.

Abstract: A sports training device comprising a stand alone unit comprising a ball securing member attached to a telescopic member. The ball securing member comprises a collar, one or more arms attached to the collar, and one or more receiving elements attached to each arm, wherein each receiving element is configured to hold a playing object, such as, a basketball. The collar is adjustably attached to the telescopic member, wherein such attachment effects the variation in the position of each receiving element. Furthermore, the to telescopic member is adjustable in height. The training device, then, allows an athlete to practice throwing a basketball from a variety of positions when received from a variety of heights from the ground of the court.

Abstract: A basketball dribble device is provided that has two legs, with each leg; and a rigid cross-member extending between the tops of the legs. A method of teaching a player to cross-dribble uses the basketball dribble device.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a novel and unique basketball shooting target removably connected to a basketball goal. The target is an object that includes a female member having a female member core and female outer layer and a male member having a male member core and male outer layer. The female member core includes female lock flanges and female contact surfaces for engaging the male member core. The male member core has buttons that each includes respective cam locks configured for releasable engagement with female lock flanges on a female core to prevent horizontal movement. The male member core has male contact surfaces for engaging the female contact surfaces of the female member to prevent vertical movement. In operation, the male and female members removably connect with one another to engage a netting of a basketball goal and prevent movement relative to one another in horizontal or vertical direction.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shooting aid apparatus for basketball players including a device worn by a basketball player to aid the player's shooting forearm to be kept parallel to the vertical centerline of the body during the shooting motion without any apparatus restraints. The centerline of the body is an imaginary line dividing the player vertically down the middle of his or her body. The shooting aid comprises a sleeve adapted to fit around the forearm or wrist of the shooting arm of the basketball player. The sleeve carries a light that brightly illuminates in response to the forearm of the shooter being in a vertical position.

Abstract: The disclosure describes a method and apparatus for training a basketball player proper movement of a player's feet. The method includes positioning a stand at a generally central location in front of a player's body, with a first foot slightly ahead of the second. The ball is positioned on the stand, then the player grabs the ball from the stand, steps over the stand, squares up to the basket and shoots the ball.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods for teaching a basketball dribbler to have optimal control over the basketball, especially when transitioning from one dribble/move to the another, by establishing continuity that demands that the ball has to be back at a certain place at a certain time. The dribbler identifies and maintains a consistent organized rhythm, according to a consistent beat while executing particular dribbling basketball movements. The consistent beat may be a consistent tick or flash (audio and/or visual) at a number of different tempos.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus related to improving player performance for trajectory-based sports are described. In particular, sporting devices are described that can be utilized to improve player performance in basketball. The sporting devices can include a camera-based system configured to capture and analyze the trajectory of a shot taken by a player. The camera-based system can be configured to provide feedback that allows a player to optimize the trajectory mechanics associated with shooting a basketball. In one embodiment, the camera-based system can be used in conjunction with a training aid that is attached to a basketball rim. The training aid can be configured to improve the trajectory mechanics of individuals utilizing the modified basketball rim to practice their shooting.

Abstract: A portable basketball training device and method for creating visual distractions adjacent to an elevated transparent basketball backboard in the vicinity of the rim to facilitate increasing a player's concentration, focus, skill and accuracy in goal shooting. The device includes a housing mounted on the backboard that contains a motorized reciprocating member, and a plurality of movable vision distracters disposed on a back side of the backboard suspended from the reciprocating member having body portions extending downwardly from the housing in the vicinity of the rim which swing or bounce from side behind the backboard in the vicinity of the rim. This motion tends to distract the player's attention and cause them to lose their concentration on making the shot. However, over time, a player will learn to increase their concentration and focus to overcome this distraction, and thereby enhance their skill and accuracy in goal shooting.

Abstract: A visual target device includes a target object and a suspension member or cord. The visual target device can be suspended within a basketball rim to provide a point of focus for a basketball player while shooting. The target object is smaller than the basketball rim such that the shooter has a more precise target to aim at. The target object is typically suspended from the rim at or below the level of the rim such that the target object does not prevent the basketball from entering the rim. The target object can be suspended from the rim by an elastic cord or other elastic means such that the target object can be pushed aside as the basketball enters the rim. The suspension cord can include a vertical component for properly positioning the target object below the rim.

Abstract: A basketball practicing apparatus includes a frame, a support bracket mounted in the frame, a drive shaft rotatably mounted on the support bracket, a backboard mounted on the drive shaft to rotate in concert with the drive shaft, and a basket ring mounted on the backboard to move in concert with the backboard. Thus, the backboard and the basket ring are rotated about the drive shaft so that the position and angle of the backboard and the basket ring can be changed arbitrarily and freely to facilitate a user practicing throwing the basketballs in different angles.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a basketball return machine which may be utilized with either a goal unit or a stand-alone basketball goal. Either or both of the basketball return machine and goal unit may be fixed in location or transportable. The machine collects basketballs that are shot in the direction of a basketball goal and returns them to the user at one or more locations around the return machine's perimeter. The present disclosure eliminates the need for persons or other means being deployed to capture and return balls to persons practicing or playing a game of basketball. The present disclosure also contemplates features that permit its use in low level light or even unlighted environments. Lastly, the present disclosure contemplates a fully functional basketball system that is adaptable to varying user skill levels.

Abstract: A signal projecting device wearable on an athlete about to throw a projectile, such as shooting a basketball. The device incorporates a leveling sensor arranged to provide an input signal to the projecting device so that a signal indicative of a body part on which the projecting device is mounted being horizontal with respect to a floor or ground surface. The projecting device may project a generally cruciform light beam of one characteristic, such as color or light pattern, when the horizontal condition is sensed. A second light beam of a different characteristic may be projected when the horizontal condition is not sensed.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a foldable, portable, apparatus for use as an operant conditioning basketball shooting practice aid by retrieving and returning shots at the hoop. The apparatus is comprised of a dismountable trough assembly depending from crossbar slots of a support assembly frame. The trough assembly includes ball collection panels each mounted on separated ball runway tubes or rails with the legs of a track extender-deflector inserted into the tubes. The deflectors are adapted to be configured for quick interchangeability from one configuration to another to deliver the ball to various locations to center or side court.

Abstract: A basketball shooting trainer device that is configured to be attached to a basketball rim is provided that includes a bracket having at least one interior side wall defining, a tubular cavity extending longitudinally through the bracket, wherein the tubular cavity has a diameter approximately equal to a diameter of the basketball rim, and a flexibly-rigid elongated member attached to the bracket, wherein the flexibly-rigid elongated member extends substantially vertical with respect to the bracket's normal operating position.

Abstract: A basketball shooting training device includes: a ring extension; an elevator pole to raise the height of the ring extension; and a base to support the ring extension and the elevator pole.

Abstract: A system and method for improving a player's efficiency in shooting by providing a player with various shooting challenge routines at which a player makes either a total number of shots or a total number shots in a row. Statistics regarding the player's performance are stored, printed and/or evaluated and the player can use the information to improve his or her efficiency at one or more of the plurality of different locations where the player shoots the basketball.

Abstract: A basketball training device to allow basketball coaches, basketball trainers, or basketball instructors to simulate the physical contact of the sport for their players without causing injury to those players. The training device is comprised of a plastic pole with three areas of thick foam padding encased in vinyl fabric. The device is to be held at the grip/s with one or both hands. The device makes it possible to practice many of the situations where contact occurs in the game of basketball in a practice or drill setting safely. Practice scenarios include; making lay-ups or other shots around the basket while being fouled, being fouled on a dribble drive to the basket, a player fighting through contact to set or receive a screen, and fouling a perimeter player on a pass to the post and then quickly fouling the post player while finishing the play.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shooting aid for basketball players including a device worn by a basketball player to aid the player's shooting forearm to be kept parallel to the centerline of the body during the shooting motion without any apparatus restraints. The centerline of the body is an imaginary line dividing the player vertically down the middle of his or her body. The shooting aid comprises a sleeve adapted to fit around the forearm or wrist of the shooting arm of the basketball player. The sleeve carries a light that brightly illuminates in response to the forearm of the shooter being in a vertical position.

Abstract: There is a basketball training device configured to block a low-arc basketball shot. The training device includes a base configured to support the basketball training device. The training device also includes a plurality of support members adjustably coupled to an end of the base and configured to extend horizontally therefrom when in an extended mode thereby providing a wider base. The training device includes a telescoping member coupled to an end of the base. The training device includes a net selectably coupled to an end of the telescoping member and configured to alter any basketball shot, which is lower that a top end of the net mechanism. The net mechanism is transparent configured to provide a clear view of the basketball rim. The basketball training device includes a plurality of wheels coupled to the plurality of support members configured to transport the basketball training device about a basketball court.

Abstract: A training device for use as a playing field obstacle during athletic training exercises. The training device includes a weighted base supportable on an underlying ground surface. The base has at least one wheel enabling ready repositioning of the base on the playing field and an upper wall with an upward-opening slot. The base can also include a dummy obstacle having a body portion and a base plug portion. The base plug portion is receivable within the slot of the base for connecting the dummy obstacle to the base such that, when the dummy obstacle is connected to the base, the body portion of the dummy obstacle is supported in a substantially upright position. The base may further include one or more coaching sticks removably secured within receptacles in a position extending or projecting from the base.

Abstract: A static aiming target for perfecting basketball bank shots appears to move horizontally and vertically along a backboard as a player moves back and forth across the court and towards and away from the backboard. This apparent movement of the aiming target is produced by visual aiming regions which allow for predetermined viewing of portions of the aiming target as a function of a player's position on the court. In each case, a player shoots for the aiming target in order to complete a proper bank shot.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally provides an integrated basketball return, coaching, and training system. In one embodiment, the present disclosure aids in, for example, returning basketballs to the players accurately in any position on the court, announcing scoring results, providing coaching tips and feedback information, and providing an efficient system for maximizing practice times for each player.

Abstract: A basketball return apparatus includes a frame, netting, and a ball return mechanism. The frame is adapted to mount on a rim support bracket of a basketball hoop and defines an orifice through which shot basketballs can descend. The netting is collapsible and extensible and is attached to the frame to form open funnel shaped enclosure that directs basketballs downward therethrough. The ball return mechanism is mounted to the frame below the orifice and netting to direct the basketballs back to the shooter.

Abstract: A training assistance device capable of significant height adjustment has at least one adjustable, and preferably, two adjustable arms to allow it to simulate a defender in a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, and volleyball. Structure facilitating transport of the device from place to place is included.

Abstract: A method is provided for improving a basketball players's shooting skills. A basketball player's shooting skills are improved by aligning a shooting arm with a mirror containing a guiding chaser light. A players's arm follows the vertical movement of the light to the rim in a straight motion, as the basketball is released. This action correctly positions the players' arm in reference to the chaser light bulb. Once a shooting throw is taken, using the product, it will enable the player to achieve the correct arc and trajectory release. The mirror containing the guiding chaser light is placed between the shooter and the basketball rim at any distance allowing the shooter to have visual contact with both the target and the mirror itself, simultaneously, allowing self-correction to take place. The method promotes three vital ingredients to increase correct shooting skills: 1. Muscle memory; 2. Hand and eye coordination; and 3. Allows the shooter to square up correctly.

Abstract: An oversized basketball rim device for retrofitting onto an existing standard sized basketball rim attached to a backboard of a raised goal which increases an opportunity of making a basket when shooting a basketball.