Abstract: An energy absorbing basketball goal/backboard unit incorporates a conventional vertically aligned backboard and horizontally aligned goal, i.e., the basket. The goal is spring mounted to pivot forwardly and downwardly out of its normal horizontal plane when a predetermined excess force is applied such as when a player dunks the basketball and slaps, hits or pulls the goal with his hands, wrists, or arms. The goal returns to its original position with the energy of the return motion being dissipated by shock absorbing means. In an alternate form provision is also made for the goal to deflect sideward under spring and shock absorbing restraint.