Abstract: A portable basketball unit with a base, moveable support frame members rotatably connected to the base for movement between an upper position and a lower transport position, a beam supporting a backboard and rim member moveably connected to the support frame members, forward wheels with a means for retracting the wheels when the support frame members are in an upper position, and a means for moving the wheels downwardly when the support frame members are in a lower transport position.

Abstract: A basketball apparatus is provided that teaches basketball players to make the perfect basketball shot when shooting backboard shots from any location on the basketball court. The basketball apparatus consists of a backboard, a basketball hoop, a supporting bracket located in front of the backboard providing a reflective surface, and a member attached to the supporting bracket and having a target affixed thereon. The member and the supporting bracket coacting to reflect the target and produce a reflective target bulls eye. Upon shooting, if the user aims towards the centerpoint of the reflective target bulls eye and shoots the basketball in the proper trajectory to engage that centerpoint, the basketball, on this trajectory toward the centerpoint, would engage the backboard at a perfect reflection point and, thereby, bounce off the backboard towards the basketball hoop to obtain the perfect basketball shot.

Abstract: A basketball goal system may include a backboard, an elongated support that positions the backboard above a playing surface, a backboard support assembly that connects the backboard to the elongated support, and a goal support assembly with a rim and a support member. Preferably the support member is attached to the backboard support assembly behind a plane that is generally aligned with the front surface of the backboard. In addition, the basketball goal system may include a resistance mechanism to create a breakaway type basketball rim. The resistance mechanism is also preferably positioned behind a plane that is generally aligned with the front surface of the backboard. Advantageously, the basketball goal system may be part of a portable basketball system and/or a basketball system in which the height of the backboard and rim is adjustable relative to the playing surface.

Abstract: A basketball backboard may include one or more weights disposed proximate the perimeter of the backboard in order to enhance the rebounding characteristics of the backboard. In particular, a first weight may be positioned proximate a first side of the backboard and a second weight may be positioned proximate a second side of the backboard in order to enhance the rebounding characteristics of the backboard. Advantageously, the weights may be positioned internally within the backboard or the weights may be positioned externally to the backboard. In addition, the weights may be selectively or permanently attached to the backboard, and the weights may also be sized and configured to increase the rigidity of the basketball backboard.

Abstract: A basketball goal system that is capable of being assembled without tools is disclosed. The basketball goal system may include a support member, a rim, a bracket, a brace and a backboard. A support pin is sized and configured to be inserted through a first set of openings in the support member, a first set of openings in the bracket and a first set of openings in the brace to connect the bracket and brace to the support member. The backboard is attached to the support member by inserting at least a portion of the first support pin into the first groove in the backboard and inserting at least a portion of the brace into a brace groove. The basketball goal system may also include a second set of openings in the support member, a second set of openings in the bracket, and a second set of openings in the brace. A second support pin is sized and configured to be inserted through the second set of openings in the support member, bracket and brace to connect the bracket and brace to the support member.

Abstract: A mounting assembly for permanently mounting a basketball goal assembly is provided. The mounting assembly may include a base plate with holes configured to fit over retaining members, which may take the form of J-bolts. The mounting assembly preferably has a shorter span of base plate material located between holes on the front side of the base plate, so that bending of the base plate is reduced and vibration of the backboard is not sufficient to disturb game play. The span may be shortened by providing an intermediate support member underneath the base plate, positioned between the front holes, by making the front holes closer together, by affixing the pole toward the front end of the base plate, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the front holes are elongated to form slots so that the front end of the base plate can rest on the ground while the basketball goal assembly is pivoted into position over the retaining members.

Abstract: An anchoring assembly for a portable basketball goal assembly is disclosed. The anchoring assembly enables the basketball goal assembly to be rigidly attached to a playing surface to stabilize the basketball goal assembly during game play. Each anchoring assembly may include an anchor fitted within an anchoring hole of the playing surface and an anchoring attachment extending through a hole in the base of the basketball goal assembly to engage the anchor. The anchoring attachment can be gripped and rotated by a user to engage or disengage the anchoring assembly. Various bracket arrangements may be used in conjunction with oversized holes in the base to permit significant variation in the positioning and orientation of the anchoring holes. Furthermore, support struts may be attached directly to such brackets to transmit force through a pathway constructed exclusively of high strength material.

Abstract: A portable basketball stand apparatus includes a frame member for supporting a backboard and rim assembly, a base member for supporting the frame member, and wheels that allow the base member to move over a supporting surface. A reciprocating actuator displaces the frame member between a storage position and a playing position. One or more casters lie at the front or first end of the base member, the end most proximate the backboard and rim assembly when the frame extends to the playing position. These casters move relative to the base member between a lowered position in which the base member lies above the supporting surface and a raised position in which the base member engages the supporting surface.

Abstract: A basketball apparatus is provided that teaches basketball players to make the perfect basketball shot when shooting backboard shots from any location on the basketball court. The basketball apparatus consists of a backboard, a basketball hoop, a supporting bracket, and a target bulls eye. The target bulls eye is mounted behind the backboard and provides a target for the shooter which, if the basketball were in the proper trajectory to engage the target bulls eye, the basketball would engage the backboard at a perfect reflection point, thereby, bouncing off the backboard towards the basketball hoop to obtain the perfect basketball shot.

Abstract: A transportable basketball system having a wind-transmissive backboard structure and sand-anchorable post assembly with threads and handles for safe, simple and quick installation along beaches, shorelines and other sand-covered outdoor environments.

Abstract: The portable basketball system allows a basketball goal to be positioned in a desired location and readily moved to another location. The portable basketball system may include a basketball goal, a pole or support structure that supports the basketball goal above a playing surface, and a base that maintains the support structure in a generally upward direction. The portable basketball system may also include an adjustment assembly that is capable of being moved between a first position in which the portable basketball system is held in a generally fixed position relative to the playing surface and a second position in which the portable basketball system is readily movable relative to the playing surface. The adjustment assembly may include a bracket, an arm, a link pivotally connecting the arm to the bracket, and a wheel assembly connected to the bracket.

Abstract: An adjustable basketball goal system allowing for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal system including a rigid support pole having a first end, a second opposing end, and an intermediate body portion disposed between the first and second ends. A first parallelogrammic structure configured to pivotally engage the first end of the rigid support. A basketball goal attached to the first parallelogrammic structure. The first deformable parallelogrammic structure may be deformed into a plurality of configurations resulting in an adjustment to the height of the basketball goal above the playing surface corresponding to each configuration. A second parallelogrammic structure, which may also be deformed into a plurality of configurations, includes a first end pivotally connected to the first parallelogrammic structure and a second opposing end configured to pivotally engage the rigid support pole.

Abstract: A deformable basketball goal support structure configured to selectively engage a rigid upright member and allow for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal support structure has a backboard and an attachment member configured to selectively connect the goal support structure to the upright member. At least one support arm pivotally attaches between the attachment member and the backboard. Preferably, a pair of first support arms and a pair of second support arms pivotally attach between the attachment member and the backboard. The backboard includes a support frame having an internal periphery sufficient for receiving at least a portion of the attachment member and the support arms.

Abstract: A basketball goals system providing a high degree of portability is disclosed. The goal system has a pole, a base member, and an adjustable wheel assembly. The adjustable wheel assembly is attached to the base member and transitions a set of wheels in contact or out of contact with the playing surface. The wheels of the adjustable wheel assembly are placed in contact with the playing surface by pivoting a cam on the axle of the wheels. The cam pushes upward on a portion of the base member, such that the base member is supported on the wheels. Once the base member is supported on the wheels, it may be easily transported to the desired location. The cam may be operated by an adjustment member that is coupled to the cam, such as a lever.

Abstract: A basketball backboard is provided that makes it easier for players to use the backboard to score baskets. In an embodiment, a basketball backboard having a bounce characteristic less than that of existing backboards is provided. In an aspect of this embodiment, a backboard includes a plurality of voids to adjust a bounce characteristic of the backboard is provided. The bounce characteristic of a region of a polymer sheet may be controlled by controlling the size, shape and/or orientation of one or more voids in the region. The bounce characteristics of different regions of a polymer sheet may be different. The bounce characteristics of the such regions may be controlled to be different by controlling the void ratios within such regions and/or controlling the size, shape, and/or orientation of voids within such regions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a basketball goal assembly with a basketball goal supported over a playing surface by a deformable goal support structure connected to a support pole. The deformable goal support structure may be connected to an adjustment collar configured to selectively slide over a series of holes arrayed along a portion of the length of the support pole. The adjustment collar may have a handle and a trigger, through which a user can retract an extension within the collar from a hole. The user can then slide the adjustment collar along the support pole until the extension is aligned over the desired hole and release the trigger, so that the adjustment collar locks in place, thereby locking the basketball goal at the desired height. The adjustment collar may be connected to the goal support structure by an adjustment arm pivotally attached to the goal support structure and the adjustment collar. The adjustment arm may be retained by the trigger, or by a housing of the adjustment collar.

Abstract: A portable basketball system includes a support pole that is sized and configured to support a basketball goal above a playing surface. The portable basketball system also includes a base with a generally hollow interior that allows the base to be filled with ballast material such as sand or water. In addition, the portable basketball system may include an axle and a locking member that are connected to the support pole, and a wheel that is connected to the axle. The base may include a wheel receiving portion that receives at least a portion of the wheel and support pole, an axle receiving portion that connects the axle to the base, a support pole receiving portion that receives at least a portion of the support pole, and a locking member receiving portion that receives at least a portion of the locking member when the support pole is in a playing position.

Abstract: A basketball goal system having a lightweight blow molded support frame and a transparent acrylic backboard is disclosed. The support frame includes an outer periphery and a support structure that is disposed within the outer periphery. The support structure divides the frame into two or more sections and at least a portion of the two or more sections are preferably covered by the acrylic backboard. Advantageously, the support structure and frame can create a lightweight basketball backboard with consistent rebounding characteristics.

Abstract: A transportable basketball system having components which are arrangeable in a play configuration during which a basketball-related game can be played, and also in a transport configuration during which said transportable basketball system can be easily transported between a sand covered outdoor environment and a remote location. Preferably, the transportable basketball system comprises a wind-transmissive backboard structure having a backboard surface disposed substantially within a first plane, bounded by a frame structure, and characterized by a high degree of air permeability (i.e. transmissivity) across said backboard surface so that air currents, expected on said covered environment, can pass therethrough with minimal resistance, yet deflect a lightweight basketball when tossed thereagainst during basketball-related games.

Abstract: A transportable basketball system having components which are arrangeable in a play configuration during which a basketball type game can be played on the sand. In a transport configuration the basketball system can be easily transported between a sand covered outdoor environment and a remote location. The transportable basketball system comprises a wind-transmissive backboard, a basketball hoop structure, a plurality of arrangeable pole sections, and a pole anchoring device.

Abstract: An anchoring assembly for a portable basketball goal assembly is disclosed. The anchoring assembly enables the basketball goal assembly to be rigidly attached to a playing surface to stabilize the basketball goal assembly during game play. Each anchoring assembly ay include an anchor fitted within an anchoring hole of the playing surface and an anchoring attachment extending through a hole in the base of the basketball goal assembly to engage the anchor. The anchoring attachment can be gripped and rotated by a user to engage or disengage the anchoring assembly. Various bracket arrangements may be used in conjunction with oversized holes in the base to permit significant variation in the positioning and orientation of the anchoring holes. Furthermore, support struts may be attached directly to such brackets to transmit force through a pathway constructed exclusively of high strength material.

Abstract: An action-responsive basketball backboard includes a backboard having a rim mounted thereon. Mounted thereon are a rim motion sensor operative to detect specific motions of the rim and output notification signals signaling detection of those specific motions, and a backboard motion sensor operative to detect specific motions of the backboard and output notification signals signaling detection of those specific motions. At least one set of indicator lights is mounted on the backboard and a power supply for supplying electrical power to the set of indicator lights is connected thereto for lighting the lights. A control box having a controllable switch interposed between the power supply and the set of indicator lights is included, the control box in information transmission connection with the rim motion sensor and the backboard motion sensor, the control box operative to receive notification signals from the rim and backboard motion sensors.

Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member having a top and bottom surface. The bottom surface contacts a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly, retractable from a lowered position to a raised position. The wheel assembly includes a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector. The wheel bracket includes an axle, at least one wheel, and a handle extending outwardly from the wheel bracket. The handle is used to pivotally rotate the wheel assembly about a transverse axis. When the handle is rotated away from the base member, the wheel assembly is placed in a lowered position whereby the wheel contacts the support surface thus separating the bottom surface of the base member from the support surface.

Abstract: A portable basketball unit with a base, moveable support frame members rotatably connected to the base for movement between an upper position and a lower transport position, a beam supporting a backboard and rim member moveably connected to the support frame members, forward wheels with a means for retracting the wheels when the support frame members are in an upper position, and a means for moving the wheels downwardly when the support frame members are in a lower transport position.

Abstract: An improvement in a mast stiffening system for providing improved support to a mast system for use to support a basketball equipment assembly typically used to suspend a basketball backboard and basket of the type commonly used in a gymnasium building. A mast bracing system co-planar with the centerline of the mast is provided. A vibration reduction system to reduce vibratory and sound transmission during basketball play is also provided.

Abstract: A molded frame backboard assembly is disclosed including a unitary molded plastic frame and rebounding surface bonded thereto. The frame preferably is formed as one piece of plastic material having sufficient strength and rigidity to support the rebound surface and may include an internal reinforcing structure integrally molded therewith. The rebounding surface preferably is an acrylic sheet bonded at its edges to the peripheral edge of the frame. The peripheral edge of the frame is raised to support the rebounding surface such that, when attached, the rebounding surface sits flush with the peripheral edge of the frame so that the edges of the rebounding surface are not left exposed. The rebounding surface is bonded to the frame by flame treating or corona treating portions of the frame and applying an adhesive bonding material such as silicon thereto to secure the rebounding surface to the frame. A cavity is formed between the rebounding surface and the frame within the interior portion of the frame.

Abstract: A portable basketball goal system having an adjustable wheel assembly is disclosed. The portable basketball goal system may comprise a rigid pole, a support base, an adjustable wheel assembly, and an engaging member. The support base is configured to maintain the rigid pole in a generally elevated position. The adjustable wheel assembly is connected to the support base and has an engaged and disengaged position. In the engaged position, the wheel assembly supportably engages a playing surface. In the disengage position the wheel assembly may not supportably engage the playing surface. The adjustable wheel assembly may be slidably coupled to the support base. The adjustable wheel assembly may be operated by an engaging member coupled to a cam surface. The cam surface may interact with a follower to transition the adjustable wheel assembly between the supportable and unsupportable engagements.

Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member which has a first edge and a second edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is adapted to contact a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly for contacting the support surface. One of the wheel assemblies is retractable from a lowered position to a raised position such that when in the raised position, the bottom surface of the base member substantially contacts the support surface. In the lowered position, both wheel assemblies contact the support surface thereby separating or elevating the base member from the support surface. In another embodiment, the invention consists of a similar rollable sports base for supporting a sports apparatus support member wherein one wheel assembly is retractable and comprises a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector.

Abstract: A basketball goal assembly having a quick-release, self-adjusting adjustable latch mechanism for adjusting the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface is disclosed. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure pivotally attached at a first end of a support pole. An extension arm includes a first end pivotally connected to the goal support structure and a second opposing end having a locking tab attached thereto for selective engagement with a plurality of slots associated with the support pole. An adjustment mechanism disposed in relation to the extension arm selectively deforms the goal support structure, thereby adjusting the height of the basketball goal in relation to the playing surface. A biasing member is operably disposed in relation to the goal support structure to assist in controlling adjustment in the height of the basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: An adjustable basketball goal system allowing for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal system including a rigid support pole having a first end, a second opposing end, and an intermediate body portion disposed between the first and second ends. A first parallelogrammic structure configured to pivotally engage the first end of the rigid support. A basketball goal attached to the first parallelogrammic structure. The first deformable parallelogrammic structure may be deformed into a plurality of configurations resulting in an adjustment to the height of the basketball goal above the playing surface corresponding to each configuration. A second parallelogrammic structure, which may also be deformed into a plurality of configurations, includes a first end pivotally connected to the first parallelogrammic structure and a second opposing end configured to pivotally engage the rigid support pole.

Abstract: A portable basketball unit comprising a hoop, backboard and pole having a base portion. The base portion is modified so that a brace system can be secured thereto. Auger screws are secured to the brace system and driven into the ground. The base unit is attached to the auger screws and a leveling collar and adjustment leveler is used to cause the pole to be substantially vertical. The attachment members are then tightened and the middle and upper portions are attached, the basketball unit being ready for play.

Abstract: The invention relates to a compression crank adjustment mechanism for a basketball goal assembly that allows for adjustment of the height of a basketball goal into a plurality of configurations above a playing surface. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure having a first end pivotally attached to a rigid support pole. A basketball goal is preferably attached at a second opposing end of the goal support structure. An extension arm may be connected between the goal support structure and a first adjustment member preferably positioned along the back side of the support pole. A second adjustment member may be connected to the support pole and configured for threaded engagement with the first adjustment member. Preferably, the first and second adjustment members are operably disposed in compression relative to each other under the forces acting on the basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member having a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface contacts a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly, retractable from a lower position to a raised position. The wheel assembly includes a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector. The wheel bracket includes an axle, at least one wheel, and a handle extending outwardly from the wheel bracket. The handle is used to pivotally rotate the wheel assembly about a transverse axis. When the handle is rotated away from the base member, the wheel assembly is placed in a lowered position whereby the wheel contacts the support surface thus separating the bottom surface of the base member from the support surface.

Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member having a top and bottom surface. The bottom surface contacts a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly, retractable from a lowered position to a raised position. The wheel assembly includes a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector. The wheel bracket includes an axle, at least one wheel, and a handle extending outwardly from the wheel bracket. The handle is used to pivotally rotate the wheel assembly about a transverse axis. When the handle is rotated away from the base member, the wheel assembly is placed in a lowered position whereby the wheel contacts the support surface thus separating the bottom surface of the base member from the support surface.

Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member having a top and bottom surface. The bottom surface contacts a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly, retractable from a lowered position to a raised position. The wheel assembly includes a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector. The wheel bracket includes an axle, at least one wheel, and a handle extending outwardly from the wheel bracket. The handle is used to pivotally rotate the wheel assembly about a transverse axis. When the handle is rotated away from the base member, the wheel assembly is placed in a lowered position whereby the wheel contacts the support surface thus separating the bottom surface of the base member from the support surface.

Abstract: A rollable sports ballast base for supporting a sports apparatus support member comprising a base member having a top and bottom surface. The bottom surface contacts a support surface such as a driveway or other playing surface. There is at least one wheel assembly, retractable from a lowered position to a raised position. The wheel assembly includes a pivoting connector coupled to the base member and a wheel bracket coupled to the pivoting connector. The wheel bracket includes an axle, at least one wheel, and a handle extending outwardly from the wheel bracket. The handle is used to pivotally rotate the wheel assembly about a transverse axis. When the handle is rotated away from the base member, the wheel assembly is placed in a lowered position whereby the wheel contacts support surface thus separating the bottom surface of the base member from the support surface.

Abstract: A foldable basketball frame assembly includes a backboard having four flanges extending from four sides of the backboard and a cover is connected to the bottom flange of the backboard. A ring is connected to the top flange. A first transverse bar is connected to the flange on the lower end of the backboard and two two-way connection members are respectively connected to two ends of the first transverse bar. Two foldable siderails are respectively connected the two two-way connection members and a three-way connection member is connected to a distal end of each siderail. A second transverse bar is connected between the two three-way connection members. Two legs are respectively connected to the three-way connection members. All the parts of the assembly can be folded and received in a bag formed by connecting the cover to the flanges on four sides of the backboard.

Abstract: A hoop-toss game simulative of basketball has a backboard assembly consisting of a backboard, a basketball hoop attached to the backboard whenever it is in use, and a horizontally disposed extensible frame. A central portion of the frame is fixedly attached to the backboard. Two side portions of the frame have rails that are telescopically attached to the central portion. Each of these side portions is biased by associated springs into an expanded position in which the apparatus is held between the vertical walls or jambs of a doorway.

Abstract: A basketball hoop. The basketball hoop includes a hoop, a connecting board provided with holes on lateral sides thereof, a securing deck, a pivot, at least one torsional spring, and one end of the hoop extends outwards and is coupled into the connecting board. A connector includes a pair of fixing poles, a pair of symmetrical combined pedestals each attached to a respective one of the fixing poles, and a hole is provided on each side of the combined pedestals. The holes of the connecting board correspond to the holes of the combined pedestals, such that the pivot passes through the holes of the connecting board, the one or more torsional springs and the holes of the combined pedestals. The connector further includes a pair of symmetrical long plates with a fixture on an end of each of the long plates, and the long plates and the fixing poles are spaced apart from one another.

Abstract: A variety of closures are provided for use with a drink cup or other container wherein the closures provide a compartment for receiving a digital media disk or other merchandise. Examples include various closures formed of inner and outer members connected by a hinge with the inner and outer members forming a compartment for closely receiving a digital media disk. Other examples include a closure having a single lid portion with a retaining mechanism for retaining a digital media disk to a top surface of the lid. The retaining mechanism includes, for example, elastic retaining bands or resilient tabs. In another example, the closure provides a curved compartment for receiving a booklet wherein a closure for the compartment includes snap-fit members for attaching the compartment closure to other portions of the container lid. Still other embodiments are provided for enclosing toys or the like including one embodiment wherein the closure is configured to retain both a compressible ball and a backboard.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a basketball goal assembly having a quick-release, self-adjusting adjustable latch mechanism for adjusting the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure pivotally attached at a first end of a support pole. An extension arm includes a first end pivotally connected to the goal support structure and a second opposing end having a locking tab attached thereto for selective engagement with a plurality of slots formed in relation to the support pole. An adjustment mechanism disposed in relation to the extension arm allows the position of an anchor point to be adjusted. The adjustment of the position of the anchor point selectively deforms the goal support structure, thereby adjusting the height of the basketball goal in relation to the playing surface.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for molding a part, such as a point-of-purchase display, is shown. The system comprises a plasticator and press. The molded part comprises an in-molded graphics sheet which becomes molded integral with the part.

Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have a single panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering selected portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of the frame member. The single panel can further include an amusement feature provided thereon, or can be used as a cover for an object, a pool, pond, box, case or shelter, or can be used as a base with an opening provided in the fabric through which an object can be inserted. The single panels can even be combined to form structures having different configurations and utility.

Abstract: A removable basketball backboard cover adapted to fit on a basketball backboard. The cover comprises a central portion and a leading edge portion. The central portion is adapted to extend across a front face of a basketball backboard and has an opening through which a rim on the front face of the backboard projects. The leading edge portion of the removable cover is adapted to extend across a portion of the back face of the backboard. The central portion of the removable cover preferably displays indicia such as advertising or other promotional material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a push button height adjustment mechanism for a basketball goal assembly for adjusting the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure interposed between a rigid support member and a basketball goal. A first end of an extension arm pivotally connects to an extension that protrudes from the back side of the goal support structure. A second end of the extension arm is pivotally connected to the support member. An adjustment mechanism disposed in relation to the extension arm allows the length of the extension arm to be adjusted. The adjustment of the length of the extension arm selectively deforms the goal support structure, thereby adjusting the height of the basketball goal in relation to the playing surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to an adjustable basketball goal system for adjusting the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal includes a deformable parallelogrammic structure attached at one end to a rigid support. A basketball goal is attached to the other end of the parallelogrammic structure. A locking rod is also attached to the rigid support. An extension arm positioned between the parallelogrammic structure and a housing which is slidably engaged with the locking arm. The housing is configured with a pair of plates kept at non-perpendicular angles to the locking rod by a biasing spring. In this configuration, the locking plates bind with the locking rod and prevent movement of the housing relative to the locking rod.

Abstract: A novel compression crank adjustment mechanism for a basketball goal assembly is disclosed in one presently preferred embodiment which facilitates an adjustment in the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal assembly includes a deformable goal support structure attached at a first end to a rigid support pole. A basketball goal is preferably attached at a second opposing end of the goal support structure. An extension arm is operably connected between the goal support structure and a first adjustment member positioned along the back side of the support pole. A second adjustment member is connected to the support pole and configured for threaded engagement with the first adjustment member. The first and second adjustment members are operably disposed in compression relative to each other under the force acting on the basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a quick-release locking mechanism for adjustable basketball goal system and methods for using the same which facilitates an adjustment in the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The adjustable basketball goal system includes a deformable goal support structure attached at one end to a rigid support. A basketball goal is preferably attached at the other end of the goal support structure. A locking rod is also attached to the rigid support. An extension arm is positioned between the goal support structure and a housing which movably engages the locking rod. The housing is configured with one or more locking plates kept at non-perpendicular angles to the locking rod by a biasing spring. In this configuration, the locking plates selectively bind the locking rod and prevent movement of the extension arm relative to the locking rod.

Abstract: A sports assembly such as a basketball goal assembly with a removable ballast wherein the basketball goal comprises a base and a ballast component, which is separate from the base. In the assembled configuration, the ballast member preferably extends beyond the rear of the base to increase the pullover force required to topple the unit and provide more stability. A support pole preferably is mounted at the rear of the base. Thus, by extending the ballast member beyond the rear of the base, the advantage of rearwardly disposed ballast may be achieved. In order to be easily transported, the ballast component may comprise one large tank with wheels or the like, or multiple attachable tanks. In another embodiment of the invention, there is a sports apparatus ballast having two removable members which engage a structural member of the particular sports apparatus such as the pole of a basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to an adjustable basketball goal system for adjusting the height of a basketball goal above a playing surface. The basketball goal includes a deformable parallelogrammic structure attached at one end to a rigid support. A basketball goal is attached to the other end of the parallelogrammic structure. A locking rod is also attached to the rigid support. An extension arm positioned between the parallelogrammic structure and a housing which is slidably engaged with the locking arm. The housing is configured with a pair of plates kept at non-perpendicular angles to the locking rod by a biasing spring. In this configuration, the locking plates bind with the locking rod and prevent movement of the housing relative to the locking rod.