Abstract: A basketball return net assembly that allows the net to be positioned to return the basketball in a set direction. The assembly may attach to a basketball backboard and can be adjusted to point the net in different directions.

Abstract: The inventive system relates to a basketball training aid system including a cord-like basketball net having a central vertical axis, the net characterized by a plurality of cord segments and knots, and an entrance opening proportioned for attachment to a basketball rim. The net also exhibits an exit opening smaller than the entrance opening, each of the openings are concentric about the central vertical axis of the net. The system includes a mounting ring having a central vertical axis, the ring proportioned for securement to the net at about a center area of the vertical axis of the net in a plane substantially transverse to the axis, the ring includes means therein for its securement to the net at about the vertical center area of the vertical axis of the net.

Abstract: An improved basketball training device is presented. It has a bearing attached to a basketball goal, as well as either a facsimile hoop for attaching on the market chutes or a folding chute. This device allows balls to be returned to any area of the court.

Abstract: An accessory to a basketball rebound board that could replace or be removably attached to the hoop attachment of the rebound board for the purpose of causing the basketball to return in the direction of the practicing player. The basketball passes through the hoop, or substitute for the hoop, and bounces against the inside wall of a frustum whose position and angle are such that the ball's rebound will return the ball in the general direction of the player who threw the ball. The apparatus is optionally partly or completely removable in such a way that the original hoop can be attached at will.

Abstract: A ball game system for training and/or play comprising one or more playing areas suitably large to accommodate running and jumping players, each playing area including adjacent surface areas forming a court and having distinctly different properties, such as a first surface suitable for bouncing a ball and a second surface comprised of a deformable elastic material. The system includes an automatic ball feeder and sensors for monitoring the positions and trajectories of one or more players and/or balls on the court. Options include visual displays and/or audio outputs reflective of player performance, and payment-driven operation of the system components, including a means for adjusting the degree of rebound provided by the deformable elastic surface(s).

Abstract: A sports pole mounting structure for supporting sports equipment in a pool environment capable of repeated assembly and removal. The mounting structure includes a bracket and a collar securely engaging existing in-ground sleeves traditionally found around pool environments and supporting sports equipment for use in a pool. The bracket is configured such that the sports pole is prohibited from rotating in the in-ground sleeve and the combination of the bracket and collar is capable of use with in-ground sleeves of varying size and shape.

Abstract: A portable basketball practice system or apparatus and method are shown having a plurality of pads situated on a plurality of adjustable arms that provide a toggle assembly, respectively. A position of the pads can be adjusted relative to a box-out area and can be engaged by a player during a basketball practice or training session. After a pad is engaged and driven away from the box-out area, the other pad is driven toward the box-out area. The player experiences a predetermined amount of resistance in order to simulate “boxing out” during a rebound drill. The apparatus and method may be provided separately or integrally with a basketball backboard and hoop. There is a disclosure of a friction-based swivel assembly that utilizes at least one brake pad for use in a basketball practice system.

Abstract: A reconfigurable multi-sport, game apparatus is disclosed. The reconfigurable multi-sport, game apparatus includes multiple, separate target portions and a ball return portion. The multi-sport, game apparatus a basketball basket, a first target portion configured to receive a first sports implement thrown by a user, and a second target portion configured to receive a second sports implement propelled along the supporting surface by a user.

Abstract: An athletic training assembly and methods suitable for use in training basketball players. The training assembly allows a ball to be suspended at a selectable height by a suspension member that is attached to a spring loaded reel. The spring loaded reel urges the ball upward when a user grabs the ball to pull it away from the spring loaded reel.

Abstract: A sports-themed game apparatus convertible from a storage configuration to a deployed configuration, and vice versa is disclosed. The sports-themed game apparatus includes a rim and a defense mechanism operable to move from a first position in which the defense mechanism permits a sports implement to pass through the rim, to a second position in which the defense mechanism prevents the sports implement from passing through the rim. The sports-themed game apparatus may further include a return portion configured to return the sports implement to the user after it is propelled/shot toward the rim.

Abstract: A ball game system for training and/or play comprising a one or more playing areas suitably large to accommodate running and jumping players, each playing area including adjacent surface areas forming a court and having distinctly different properties, such as a first surface suitable for bouncing a ball and a second surface comprised of a deformable elastic material. The system includes an automatic ball feeder and sensors for monitoring the positions and trajectories of one or more players and/or balls on the court. Options include visual displays and/or audio outputs reflective of player performance, and payment-driven operation of the system components, including a means for adjusting the degree of rebound provided by the deformable elastic surface(s).

Abstract: A portable basketball practice system or apparatus and method are shown having a plurality of pads situated on a plurality of adjustable arms that provide a toggle assembly, respectively. A position of the pads can be adjusted relative to a box-out area and can be engaged by a player during a basketball practice or training session. After a pad is engaged and driven away from the box-out area, the other pad is driven toward the box-out area. The player experiences a predetermined amount of resistance in order to simulate “boxing out” during a rebound drill. The apparatus and method may be provided separately or integrally with a basketball backboard and hoop. The apparatus and method may also include or be used with a rebounder so that the player can simulate “boxing out” before, during or after capturing a rebound.

Abstract: A basketball return device is formed of an injection molded device which is formed as a resilient deflector including a spine extending the length of the device. The spine has a pair of upper and lower wings which are located behind a net suspended from a hoop rim. The spine is flattened throughout its downward length and has intermittent elongated openings therein to enhance its torque and stability with regard to elasticity. The spine has attached thereto upper and lower lateral wings. The surface of each of the wings exhibit a flat surface directed toward a player. Extending surfaces of each of the wings are slanted inwardly from an edge thereof to improve the quality of the return of a ball being thrown.

Abstract: The present invention provides an educational basketball game device, comprising a backboard which houses cheer lights outlining perimeter, a score display, a target, a hoop, and a sensor, an extendable pole which is made of two parts an upper part and a lower part, and a progress display made of several portions which illuminate game progress, and a baseboard which houses speakers, an extendable foul line and wheels. Also, the present invention provides a method for educating a game of basketball with an educational basketball game device. The educational method incorporates playing of recordings that cheer the player to make a shot, encourage the player to aim at target, motivate to keep practicing and getting the ball in the hoop. In addition, the educational method uses cheer lights to acknowledge success. Additionally, a visual display showing a cheering crowd of fans will light up when a goal is achieved.

Abstract: An apparatus is used to implement a method for training a person to accomplish a basketball shot. A lower body positioning member is located in front of a leg area of the person when that person is in a position to attempt the shot. When the person so attempts the shot, the lower body positioning member restrains forward rotation of the person's leading shin. An upper body positioning member is located in front of a torso area of the person. When the person attempts the shot, the upper body positioning member restrains downward rotation of the person's shooting arm. In a repetitive process, the person is provided with a basketball and shoots the basketball at the goal. By this repetitive process the person learns to accomplish the shot without excessive rotation of the lower leg and upper arm.

Abstract: A basketball shooting accuracy aid includes a loop member including a top edge, a bottom edge and a peripheral wall extending between the top and bottom edges. The peripheral wall has an inner surface and an outer surface. The loop member has circular shape. An inner diameter of the loop member is at least one inch less than an inner diameter of a basketball rim. A bracket is attached to the loop member and is positioned adjacent to the bottom edge for selectively securing the loop member to the rim such that the loop member extends upwardly above a plane of the rim.

Abstract: A foldable basketball game assembly includes a base, an extendable upright frame connected to an end of the base and an extendable end frame connected to the other end of the base. A board is connected to the upper section of the upright frame and a sound producing member is connected to the board. A hoop is pivotably connected to the sound producing member and a sensor extended from the sound producing member is located in a center of the loop so that when a ball enters the hoop, a pre-set sound is produced.

Abstract: A basketball system that includes a movable platform and a pole rotatably mounted to the movable platform. The pole has either a curved or an angled region, and also has an axis of rotation. The basketball system also includes a backboard mounted to the pole and a rim mounted to the backboard. The rim has a vertical central axis that is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the pole. In addition, the movable platform is horizontally adjustably mounted to a base. A controller may be employed to control the operation of the system, such as by adjusting the distance and rotation of the pole in accordance with a stored program or a user defined preference, by starting and stopping a ball return system in accordance with the player pace of shooting, etc.

Abstract: A basketball practicing and collecting device includes a base, a first tube, a lift tube, a second tube, a third tube, a lower support rack, a backboard, a reduction motor, a drive roller, a driven roller, a frame tube, two opposite pulley members, two opposite slide seats, a pull handle, and a pull cord. Thus, the frame tube can be turned horizontally, while the ball inlet opening and the collection channel are moved and directed toward the same direction, so that the basketball falling into the elastic net from the ball inlet opening can be collected and introduced outward through the collection channel, thereby facilitating the user practicing the free throw in a determined direction.

Abstract: The apparatus has a stanchion (10) including a plurality of telescopic members (12, 112, 14, 114, 16) provided with lines of spaced securing holes (22, 12, 1122) extending along the length thereof. A ball target device (20, 120) is detachably and adjustably mounted on the stanchion (10). Telescopic leg assemblies (18, 54, 56) are mounted on thc stanchion (10) intermediate the ends thereof.

Abstract: A portable basketball practice system or apparatus and method are shown having a plurality of pads situated on a plurality of adjustable arms that provide a toggle assembly, respectively. A position of the pads can be adjusted relative to a box-out area and can be engaged by a player during a basketball practice or training session. After a pad is engaged and driven away from the box-out area, the other pad is driven toward the box-out area. The player experiences a predetermined amount of resistance in order to simulate “boxing out” during a rebound drill. The apparatus and method may be provided separately or integrally with a basketball backboard and hoop. The apparatus and method may also include or be used with a rebounder so that the player can simulate “boxing out” before, during or after capturing a rebound.

Abstract: A ball return apparatus for providing a moveable, netted frame that would redirect balls toward the shooter, after the ball passes through the hoop or if the player misses. The ball return apparatus includes a frame assembly having a plurality of vertical support members. The frame assembly has a plurality of horizontal support members. The netting assembly forms a plurality of walls between the horizontal and the vertical support members of the framing assembly. A ball return assembly is positioned interior to the netting assembly. The ball return assembly is for returning a ball to a user.

Abstract: A basketball practicing and collecting device includes a base containing a water bag therein, a first tube, a lift tube, a second tube, a third tube, a lower support rack, and upper support rack, a reduction motor, a drive roller, a driven roller, a frame tube, two opposite slide seats, two opposite pulley members, a pull handle, and a pull cord. Thus, the frame tube can be turned horizontally, so that the user can practice the free throw in a determined direction.

Abstract: The present invention provides a backstop net assembly and kit for use in combination with a basketball hoop assembly, which comprises a multi-socketed mounting block, a plurality of net extension rods, and a ball-gathering net assembly. In a basketball playground, one can find an upright support post, a backboard mounted on the post, and a basketball rim and net structure mounted on the backboard. The present invention provides a basketball backstop net assembly to gather errant basketball shots launched by a basketball shooter to minimize basketball retrieval time and possible damage to surrounding valuables. The ball-gathering net is a reticulated having a size and width, which extends vertically and laterally via the net extension rods a sufficient distance to capture errant shots and to assist in keeping the basketball in play. Additionally, a perimeter cord bounds the reticulated portion of the net to provide added strength to the ball-gathering net.

Abstract: A basketball return apparatus designed to return a thrown basketball substantially in the direction of the player shooting the ball is mounted beneath a basketball goal assembly and includes a resilient rebound panel, a panel retainer assembly, and a panel support assembly. The resilient rebound panel, in multiple embodiments, is provided with flexible and adjustable tensile connections to the goal assembly that allows a limited degree of rotation when the resilient rebound panel is impacted by a thrown basketball. The rotational motion of the rebound panel and the resilience of the rebound panel, combined with the tension and untensioning of the flexible and adjustable tensile connections to the goal assembly, tends to return a thrown basketball substantially back towards the player shooting the ball. The basketball return apparatus is adjustable for a plurality of heights and angles of return, and is easily removable from the field of play.

Abstract: A basketball shooting kit includes a board having a hoop connected thereto and a fabric is wrapped around a mandrel which is located at a lower edge of the board. The mandrel is cooperated with a torsion spring so that the fabric is normally wrapped on the mandrel. A stand is located at a distance from the board and a leading end of the fabric can be connected to the stand.

Abstract: A collapsible structure has a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. Each panel has a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. One first side of the first panel is coupled to one side of the second panel, and one side of the third panel is coupled to the fabric of the second panel.

Abstract: A basketball return apparatus designed to return a thrown basketball substantially in the direction of the player shooting the ball is mounted beneath a basketball goal assembly and includes a resilient rebound panel, a panel retainer assembly, and a panel support assembly. The resilient rebound panel, in multiple embodiments, is provided with flexible and adjustable tensile connections to the goal assembly that allows a limited degree of rotation when the resilient rebound panel is impacted by a thrown basketball. The rotational motion of the rebound panel and the resilience of the rebound panel, combined with the tension and untensioning of the flexible and adjustable tensile connections to the goal assembly, tends to return a thrown basketball substantially back towards the player shooting the ball. The basketball return apparatus is adjustable for a plurality of heights and angles of return, and is easily removable from the field of play.

Abstract: An apparatus (40) is used to implement a method for training a person to accomplish a basketball shot. A lower body positioning member (60) is located in front of a leg area of the person when that person is in a position to attempt the shot. When the person so attempts the shot, the lower body positioning member restrains forward rotation of the person's leading shin. An upper body positioning member (68) is located in front of a torso area of the person. When the person attempts the shot, the upper body positioning member restrains downward rotation of the person's shooting arm. In a repetitive process, the person is provided with a basketball and shoots the basketball at the goal. By this repetitive process the person learns to accomplish the shot without excessive rotation of the lower leg and upper arm.

Abstract: A basketball return net assembly is attachable to a basketball hoop support having a post extending upwardly from the ground and carrying a basketball hoop adjacent an upper end thereof. The return net assembly includes a flexible foldable return net and an elongated rigid net-carrying member extending along the upper end of the net to enable the net to be supported in a latterly-extending configuration. The upper end of the net and the net-carrying member can be suspended from an upper portion of the hoop support behind the hoop, and an attachment bracket is connected to opposite lower corner portions of the net and is adjustably securable to the post to enable the bracket to be adjusted relative thereto.

Abstract: A portable basketball return apparatus adapted to be attached to a rim attached to a backboard by a bracket, comprising, a holding clamp for attachment of the apparatus to the bracket, a spine attached to said holding clamp, a return panel attached to said spine, said holding clamp comprising an upper plate and a lower plate adapted to fit over said bracket, a screw passing through said lower plate, pole means to lift the apparatus, from the ground onto the bracket and to rotate the screw to tighten the holding clamp onto the bracket.

Abstract: A portable basketball return apparatus adapted to be attached to a rim attached to a backboard by a bracket, comprising, a holding clamp for attachment of the apparatus to the bracket, a spine attached to said holding clamp, a return panel attached to said spine, said holding clamp comprising an upper plate and a lower plate adapted to fit over said bracket, a screw passing through said lower plate, pole means to lift the apparatus, from the ground onto the bracket and to rotate the screw to tighten the holding clamp onto the bracket.

Abstract: A basketball shooting practice return apparatus includes a framework for mounting on a backboard, support members pivotally mounted to the framework below guide elements on the framework and above a hoop on the backboard, a retrieval net assembly supported by the support members and spaced outwardly and hanging downwardly from above the hoop, a net positioning mechanism operable for selectively applying and releasing a pulling force upon the retrieval net assembly and support members from the direction of the guide elements above the backboard so as to be able to pivotally move the net assembly and support members between a raised inclined position extending forwardly and upwardly from the backboard and a lowered vertical position extending downwardly from the backboard and to hold the retrieval net assembly and support members at any stationary position therebetween, and a basketball return structure associated with the retrieval net assembly.

Abstract: A basketball return net assembly is attachable to a basketball hoop support having a post extending upwardly from the ground and carrying a basketball hoop adjacent an upper end thereof. The return net assembly includes a flexible foldable return net and an elongated rigid net-carrying member extending along the upper end of the net to enable the net to be supported in a latterly-extending configuration. The upper end of the net and the net-carrying member can be suspended from an upper portion of the hoop support behind the hoop, and an attachment bracket is connected to opposite lower corner portions of the net and is adjustably securable to the post to enable the bracket to be adjusted relative thereto.

Abstract: A basketball shooting practice return apparatus includes a framework for mounting on a backboard, support members pivotally mounted to the framework below guide elements on the framework and above a hoop on the backboard, a retrieval net assembly supported by the support members and spaced outwardly and hanging downwardly from above the hoop, a net positioning mechanism operable for selectively applying and releasing a pulling force upon the retrieval net assembly and support members from the direction of the guide elements above the backboard so as to be able to pivotally move the net assembly and support members between a raised inclined position extending forwardly and upwardly from the backboard and a lowered vertical position extending downwardly from the backboard and to hold the retrieval net assembly and support members at any stationary position therebetween, and a basketball return structure associated with the retrieval net assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing timed basketball drills includes one or more ball return units, a basketball goal assembly, a timer/counter, and one or more remote transmitters. The timer/counter senses, processes, stores, and displays the number of balls thrown at and returned from the one or more ball return untis and/or the number of successful shots to the basketball goal assembly. The remote transmitter provides an encoded signal to the timer/counter from either the one or more ball return units or the basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a basketball foul-shot return apparatus for use with an elevated basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: A basketball practice assembly a case including a box-like receptacle which is open at a front side thereof, and a pair of doors hingedly connected with two lateral sides of the box-like receptacle, a pair of fixing members fastened in the box-like receptacle by screws and having a vertical dovetail groove, a pair of telescopic arms each having two inner ends and two outer ends, one of the inner ends being fixedly engaged with the vertical dovetail groove, another one of the inner ends being slidably fitted in the vertical dovetail groove, a net arranged on the telescopic arms to form a rectangular member with an open top, a backboard installed in the receptacle, and a basket pivotally mounted on the backboard.

Abstract: A portable baseball pitcher's practice target device having a target panel with sub-target areas representing the upper, lower, inside, outside and center of an imaginary strike zone of a baseball batter. The user of the target device practices pitching baseballs toward the target with the objective of concentrating on the sub-target areas to improve the user's pitching accuracy and skill. The target device has a frame that supports the target and a back panel for collecting pitched balls that enter through the sub-target areas. A powered apparatus is included for returning baseballs that have passed through the sub-target areas and resilient surfaces for returning balls that do not enter the sub-target areas.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a round ball rebounding game played on a circular court consisting of a spherical structure supported by a single pole and having a plurality of goals placed at equidistant intervals about the maximum horizontal diameter of the sphere and parallel to the playing surface. The apparatus further comprising a plurality of discharge tubes inserted into the bottom of the sphere, said number of tubes corresponding to the number of goals. Openings are further cut into the sphere relative to the position of each goal such that a net attached to the bottom of each goal can direct a round ball into the interior of the sphere with the ball eventually departing the bottom of the sphere through one of the discharge tubes which then deposit the ball at the base of the structure along the playing surface.

Abstract: A basketball return net assembly attachable to a basketball hoop support behind a basketball hoop carried thereby has a flexible foldable return net having an upper end with an upper sleeve portion extending therealong, an elongated rigid net-carrying member removably insertable into the upper sleeve portion to enable the net to be suspended in a laterally-extended configuration from the net-carrying member, and at least one attachment member for securing the net-carrying member to an upper portion of the hoop support behind the hoop. The net also has a lower end portion for receiving ballast to retain the lower end of the net in a laterally extended configuration at a selected location on the ground.

Abstract: Basketball retrieval devices are provided. The devices have use and storage positions, whereby the devices include collapsible walls that permit the devices to be collapsed into a compact storage position and opened into a use position for permitting a player to practice foul-throw shooting.

Abstract: The apparatus of the within invention is quite sophisticated. Its primary purpose was to adapt a rotatable return of ball on an existing basketball hoop. The principal feature is an inverted L-shaped circular ring that conforms to the locus of the hoop. The inverted L-shaped ring sets down on the hoop with the vertical flange extending downward and inside the hoop while the horizontal flange rests on the hoop. Extending downwardly a sufficient distance below the hoop is a mechanism that grabs the ball, squeezes it, and then throws it back in the direction of the player who has been shooting the ball at the hoop. The throwing mechanism comprises of a motion system for turning roller, one of which squeezes the ball, and feeds it and the other of which spins and throws the ball at the player.

Abstract: The invention relates to a basketball retrieval device that is connected to a basketball pole. The retrieval device comprises an elongated pole that vertically extends from the basketball pole up to a upper horizontal support arm. The upper support arm supports a screen or net that hangs down behind the backboard. The ball hits the retrieval device and causes the ball to roll back onto the court instead of landing off the court. A lower support arm is attached to the bottom of the basketball pole and secures the bottom of the net in tension.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a round ball rebounding game played on a circular court consisting of a spherical structure supported by a single pole and having a plurality of goals placed at equidistant intervals about the maximum horizontal diameter of the sphere and parallel to the playing surface. The apparatus further comprising a plurality of discharge tubes inserted into the bottom of the sphere, said number of tubes corresponding to the number of goals. Openings are further cut into the sphere relative to the position of each goal such that a net attached to the bottom of each goal can direct a round ball into the interior of the sphere with the ball eventually departing the bottom of the sphere through one of the discharge tubes which then deposit the ball at the base of the structure along the playing surface.

Abstract: A portable basketball return device which includes arms that hold a net which is adapted to surround an existing basketball hoop thus enabling the device to catch a ball that passes through or adjacent to the hoop to be redirected toward a shooter.

Abstract: A basketball free throw training apparatus has a frame having a top horizontal bar. The horizontal bar is adjustably mounted for vertical positioning on the frame, so that the bar can be raised in a horizontal position with respect to the frame and with respect to the floor upon which the frame is mounted. A pair of upstanding closely spaced guidebars extend upwardly from the bar and have a horizontal space therebetween sufficiently wide to permit a basketball to freely pass therebetween. The frame has an extended arm thereon which can be pivoted to a horizontal position and which can extend between the frame and the backboard of a basket so that the frame is accurately positioned from the basket based upon the stature and shooting technique of the user of the equipment. This arm is length adjustable so as to accommodate the spacing requirements of persons of different stature and skill.

Abstract: A basketball practice device wherein an auxiliary target ring or hoop is supported above a standard horizontal basketball hoop or ring in a plane that is disposed at an acute angle from the plane of the supporting ring. A curved basketball guide chute depends downwardly from the supporting ring for guiding a basketball falling through the supporting ring back toward a basketball shooter. This downwardly depending guide chute also serves as a handle mechanism for manipulating the practice device to rotate it on the standard basketball hoop or to remove from or mount it onto the standard basketball hoop.

Abstract: A ball return chute for a basketball hoop, and a modular basket assembly utilizing the novel chute. The chute engages the hoop by C-shaped members which slip over the rod stock of the hoop at the slot formed in each C. The chute can be rotated three hundred sixty degrees about the hoop, so as to return a ball passing downwardly through the hoop in any selected direction. The basket assembly includes a bracket for permanent attachment to a vertical environmental surface. The bracket has hooks or equivalent receptacles for receiving trunnion arms formed in a member projecting from the hoop. The hoop may thus be removably supported in an operable position by the bracket. The hoop and attached chute are removed from and installed on the bracket when desired.

Abstract: A basketball passing machine (18) includes a basketball supply (20) which provides basketballs (48) for a basketball ejector assembly (26) which passes basketballs one-at-a-time in a controlled manner along a trajectory (70) towards a waiting player. The machine can be used with a collection net assembly (16) adjacent a backboard (6) so that basketballs from both made and missed shots are collected and directed into the basketball supply. The supply of basketballs allows the passing machine to pass basketballs to the player as fast as desired, such as every three to four seconds. Balls can be passed from the machine on demand; the pass rate, the azimuth of the trajectory, the speed of the ball and the number of balls placed in play at each position can be preprogrammed. Sensors (74, 104) are used to generate signals whenever a ball is placed in play and when a shot is made. Shooting accuracy and associated information can be displayed for a player as well as recorded for future reference.