Abstract: A basketball retrieval apparatus and shooting system of the present invention includes a collection mechanism disposable about a conventional basketball basket for receiving basketballs, and an elongate ramp pivotably attached to a mast supporting the conventional basketball basket, and positioned at the bottom of the collection mechanism for receiving basketballs and channeling them to a player shooting at the basket. A first end of the ramp is supported by a support arm extending from the mast, and a second end has a base for holding the second end above ground level. The ramp between the first and second ends is self-supporting. The ramp is lightweight and easy to move between different shooting locations.

Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that include arcade-styled games for the fun and entertainment of both adults and children. These collapsible structures can be easily and quickly folded and collapsed into a compact configuration. The collapsible structures have at least three foldable frame members, each having a folded and an unfolded orientation. A fabric material substantially covers each frame member to form a panel for each frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, with the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of its associated frame member.

Abstract: A collapsible support unit for basketball basket which allows the ball to return to the player after a shot is made at the basket so that the player needs not to run about in order to take back the ball after making a shot. It also allows the ball to be confined so that the ball would not do damage to anything or hurt anybody nearby. The collapsible support unit includes a backboard mounted with a basket and a main upright frame for supporting said backboard. A plurality of auxiliary upright frames are arranged in a row with said main upright frame and are collapsible to the upright frame by means of a plurality of extendable linkage units coupled therebetween. Furthermore, an enclosure defined by a net is formed around said basket for confining the ball, and a ball rolling path defined by a flexible piece extends from the bottom of said backboard to the top of the outermost auxiliary upright frame, allowing the bounced ball to roll back to the player.

Abstract: An electronic basketball training apparatus that instructs a player to move to a sequence of zones and allows the player a limited amount of time to make a basket in each zone. The apparatus computes results and statistics which can be printed out or viewed from a computer screen. The invention can have the computer automatically communicate or allow a coach to communicate the next zone to the player. The invention uses a switch sensor in the basketball net to sense when a basket is made, laser beam sensors on the floor to locate the position of the player, a controller, memory, software, a visual display terminal, a printer, and a speaker to perform the training routine.

Abstract: An automatic ball return apparatus includes a ball retrieval net with a chute at the lower end for receiving an directing a ball to a ball return mechanism. The ball return mechanism includes a frame with guide rails for directing a ball forwardly out of the mechanism, and an ejector mechanism for launching the ball. The ejector mechanism includes an ejector arm connected to a motor which cycles the arm between a cocked position and a launch position, to selectively launch a ball received from the ball retrieval apparatus. A switch located between the guide rails is activated by a ball dropping onto the ball return mechanism, which operates the motor to eject the ball from the mechanism. The ball return mechanism is supported on a stand, and a motor with a drive shaft is mounted to a platform on the stand to selectively rotate the ball return mechanism on the stand.