Abstract: A prize-capturing game apparatus 10 comprises a prize storage portion 14 in which a prize 18 is stored. A drop inlet 26 for dropping the prize 18 gripped by a movable body 24 is disposed on the prize storage portion 14. The drop inlet 26 is opened or closed by a shutter 74 of a mechanism 37 for opening and closing the drop inlet. A prize deposit room 30 is disposed below the drop inlet 26 and an outlet 32 for taking out the prize 18 is disposed on a front face of the prize deposit room 30. The outlet 32 is opened and closed by the prize outlet door 34. During a game, the shutter 74 opens the drop inlet 26 to receive the drop of the prize 18 and the prize outlet door 34 is locked in a closed position using a locking mechanism 62. After the game, the shutter 74 closes the drop inlet 26 and a lock of the prize outlet door 34 using the door locking mechanism 62 is released.

Abstract: An apparatus on a net of a basketball hoop for displaying advertisement, making sounds and creating eye catching visual effects when a basketball passes through the net, which comprises a plurality of components and a structure for securing the components to the net. The components will make contact with the basketball when the basketball passes through the net.

Abstract: A collapsible ball game practice device is comprised of a plurality of sections, each section above a lower section being substantially collapsible into the lower section. Detent structure is provided on an upper portion of each lower section and a lower portion of each upper section to secure each upper section when raised to its raised condition. A mounting structure is provided on the bottom of the lowermost section for releasably securing the device to a basketball playing surface. Arms may be angularly adjusted to various positions in two orthogonal directions. These adjustments may be made by two angularly adjustable structures located near the upper end of the arms. The arms may be collapsed and slid on a carrier into the uppermost section. A head structure may also be slid into the uppermost section. The sections may be collapsed such that all of them may be collapsed into the lowest section. A handle is provided in the top of the head structure for carrying the entire assembly.

Abstract: A basketball or soccer training device has a base, a body having a lower body portion and an upper body portion with the lower body portion overlying the base. The upper body portion has a first pair of arms projecting generally outwardly in generally-opposite directions and a second pair of arms projecting generally upwardly in relative spaced relationship. The lower body portion may have a pair of legs terminating in weighted feet. The base may be hollow and be dimensioned and structured to receive an inflatable, basketball training device when in deflated condition. A corresponding method is provided.

Abstract: A basket ball dribble device that has two legs, with each leg; and a rigid cross-member extending between the tops of the legs

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: The use of spot locations that are freely movable with respect to one another and that include different uses for each side is an improvement over the prior art. A basketball game includes at least one ball, a playing surface, a support structure, a backboard, a hoop, and a plurality of spot locations, and may further include a timekeeping device. Each spot location has a first surface which may include a first plurality of raised dimples arranged thereon and a second surface, in opposition to the first surface, which may include a second plurality of raised dimples arranged thereon. The first surface has a first marking thereon and the second surface has a second marking thereon. On at least one spot location, the first marking differs from the second marking. Additionally, a basketball game package and method of playing a basketball game utilize aspects of the basketball game.

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: 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: Methods and apparatus relating to predicting outcome in a sporting environment are described. The methods and apparatus are used to relate trajectory performance of an object to body motions and body orientation associated with a generating the trajectory of the object. When equipment is utilized to generate the trajectory of an object, than the effects of equipment motions and equipment orientation can be also related to trajectory performance. The method and apparatus can be used to predict body motions and body orientations that increase the likelihood of achieving a desired outcome including specifying optimum motions and orientations for a particular individual. The method and apparatus may be used in training, coaching and broadcasting environments.

Abstract: A training aid for improving a player's skill in shooting a basketball. The training aid includes a substantially planar surface and foot positioning indicia viewable on the planar surface. The foot positioning indicia include a lead foot indicia and a plurality of trailing foot indicia. Each of the trailing foot indicia define a separate foot placement position for the player's trailing foot wherein the training aid is usable by players having different sizes by selecting one of the plurality trailing foot indicia appropriate for the size of the player and using the lead foot indicia and the selected one of the trailing foot indicia to define suitable lead and trailing foot positions for the player when shooting the basketball. The planar surface may take the form of the upper surface of a floor mat repositionable on the court and having alignment indicia for properly positioning the mat.

Abstract: A collapsible ball game practice device is comprised of a plurality of sections, each section above a lower section being substantially collapsible into the lower section. Detent structure is provided on an upper portion of each lower section and a lower portion of each upper section to secure each upper section when raised to its raised condition. A mounting structure is provided on the bottom of the lowermost section for releasably securing the device to a basketball playing surface. Arms may be rotated to various positions. The arms may be collapsed and slid on a carrier into the uppermost section. A head structure may also be slid into the uppermost section. The sections may be collapsed such that all of them may be collapsed into the lowest section. A handle is provided in the top of the head structure for carrying the entire assembly. The collapsed device may be easily transported and/or stored. The device is particularly useful as a defensive dummy in practicing the games of basketball and volleyball.

Abstract: A basketball training device adapted to be detachably mounted directly on a basketball goal to provide a target at which the player aims and strikes with the basketball in order to improve the form and accuracy of the player's shooting. The device comprises a base with a plurality of projections attached to the base. The plurality of projections are adapted and configured to bend and allow the ball freely move through the goal without substantially affecting the trajectory of the ball and to substantially resume their original position after the ball has passed through the goal.

Abstract: Embodiments provide mechanisms and methods for measuring shooting performance in multiplayer environments. These mechanisms and methods include advanced sensor technology that enables a portable console to determine player performance by monitoring actions of the player and activity at the basket using sensors associated with one or more players and a basket. The ability to determine player performance by monitoring actions of the player and activity at the basket makes it possible for coaches and players to measure levels of play, build teamwork among multiple players, improve and maintain skills, select players to meet game situations and team requirements, make decisions on player roles, and use playing environment space more efficiently.

Abstract: The present invention is a basketball rebound training apparatus including a rebound unit and an installation tool. The rebound unit includes a dome portion as well as a rim mount structure including a rim catch tab and a latch mechanism. The dome portion is shaped to deflect a basketball shot in a direction that will generally correspond to the likely path and direction of a similar missed shot. The rim catch tab projects under the basketball goal rim while the latch mechanism engages the opposite side of the rim. The installation tool is used to raise the rebound unit for installation on a basketball goal rim.

Abstract: A combination of a ball storage rack and a ball feeder track provide an apparatus for basketball storage and consistent position retrieval of sport balls, such as basketballs and volleyballs, by a player. The apparatus comprises a frame configured with an upper portion along the length of the frame capable of holding a plurality of sport balls with a lower rack configured to hold a plurality of sport balls and an extendable feeder track capable of receiving a sport ball and facilitating movement of the sport ball down the track for retrieval of the sport ball by a player. Feeder track may be extended for use in active sports drills or sport games, or folded or retracted for convenient storage of the apparatus when not in use. Apparatus may be configured to hold and display signage such as advertisements.

Abstract: A diving stick of the type that, after being tossed into a swimming pool, sinks to the bottom while maintaining an upright posture so that it be can easily grasped by a diver. The stick includes a soft hollow shank designed to prevent accidental impalement. The stick also includes means for swapping components to vary the number of subsets of sticks within a set.

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.

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 basketball training aid and method requires a player to jump to sufficient height to see a basket over a curtain, and to shoot over the curtain. The training aid comprises an easily adjustable stand for positioning the curtain. The curtain blocks the player's view of the basket. The aid is adjusted to an individual player to challenge the player to achieve a minimum height to see the basket and to shoot over the aid. The player must coordinate jumping, seeing the basket, and releasing the ball at the apex of the jump. As a result, muscle memory is developed thereby improving player performance.

Abstract: A safety jump training apparatus designed for safely mounting on a wall to permit an athlete to safely measure their vertical leap. The safety jump training apparatus includes a jump measurement device and a rotating support to rotably attach the measurement device to a mounting plate, as well as numerous safety features. The safety features include cooperating locking pin recesses and a locking pin to secure the apparatus in either an operating position or a storage position, a lock to adjustably secure the vertical height of the measurement device, a translation resistor to control the movement of the measurement device when the lock is disengaged, a safety position limiter to ensure that the measurement device is always a predetermined distance above the ground, and a safety cover to safely contain majority of the apparatus.

Abstract: A basketball training apparatus for use with a basketball goal is secured to a backboard, the apparatus including a blocking element secured to the backboard. In an embodiment, the blocking element is a generally planar ledge secured to the backboard at a height substantially equal to the height of a top surface of the basketball goal. The generally planar ledge can be constructed to include a center portion extending outwardly from a center of the backboard. A right side portion can extend outwardly from the backboard along a right side of the backboard from the center portion to a right edge of the backboard, and a left side portion can extend outwardly from the backboard along a left side of the backboard from the center portion to a left edge of the backboard.

Abstract: A basketball shooting aid having visually distinctive designs, configurations and colors for the purpose of sending immediate visual feedback to the athlete, informing the athlete whether the proper technique was employed in the athlete's grip of the basketball, the athlete's release of the shot and the arc and rotation of the basketball during flight. An equatorial track is disposed between a first and second lines defining a first hemispherical half and a second hemispherical half, and the equatorial track further including alternating color members displayed thereon. The basketball shooting aid including a first patch displayed within the first hemispherical half abutting the first line, and a second patch displayed within the second hemispherical half abutting the second line, wherein the first patch and the second patch are on the same axis. For proper gripping of the basketball shooting aid, a first and second outlined hand are displayed.

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: A portable combination timer/calculator for basketball players and coaches that is used for indicating the elapse of selected time periods and recording the number of attempted baskets, made baskets, and shot percentages. The device includes a belt worn around a player's waist that contains a “made” basket button, and a “missed” basket button, mounted on opposite ends of the belt. Mounted centrally on the belt is an outer housing with a main on/off button, a timer, a calculator, a plurality of programmed timer buttons, and a speaker. Also mounted on the surface of the outer housing is a game select button that enables the device to be used to play various basketball related games or to be used as a recording device for “made” or “missed” baskets. The player presses the “made” or “missed” basket buttons when a shot is made or missed. Also, when the selected time period has elapsed, an audio signal is broadcast through the speaker.

Abstract: A basketball training apparatus for improving shooting skills and accuracy on all playing levels. The basketball training apparatus is adapted for use with a basketball rim placed above a playing surface, and comprises a base on the playing surface beneath the basketball rim, a plurality of arms extending in radial directions from the base, a plurality of shooting markers spaced apart along the length of each arm, and vision markers attached to the basketball rim. Each vision marker is radially aligned with a corresponding one of the arms. With this arrangement, a user, when standing on one of the shooting markers and facing the basketball rim, is provided with visual shooting assistance as a result of the arm being radially aligned with one of the vision markers located on a region of the basketball rim that is nearest the user.

Abstract: A basketball training apparatus for use with a basketball goal is secured to a backboard, the apparatus including a blocking element secured to the backboard. In an embodiment, the blocking element is a generally planar ledge secured to the backboard at a height substantially equal to the height of a top surface of the basketball goal. The generally planar ledge can be constructed to include a center portion extending outwardly from a center of the backboard. A right side portion can extend outwardly from the backboard along a right side of the backboard from the center portion to a right edge of the backboard, and a left side portion can extend outwardly from the backboard along a left side of the backboard from the center portion to a left edge of the backboard.

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 frame supports as a base a plurality of goals rotatably. The goals are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the vertical axix from the view point of a player. Some goals hide others. When a ball shot by a player hits the frame of a goal. Then the goal rotates to guide the ball out of the goal. Unless a ball is directed to the central portion of the frame of the goal without hitting the frame, the possibility is low that the ball drops in the goal.

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: A crane game with a vacuum head adapted to pick up objects with a smooth extraction surface is disclosed wherein the objects, or targets, include perturbations such as bead shaped projections or dimples that present a more challenging target by reducing the available extraction surface. Disk shaped, spherical, or other shaped targets include one or more perturbations that may prevent a seal from being formed with the suction head, denying extraction of the target by the vacuum head. Values may be assigned to the targets based on the number of perturbations, or the targets may encapsulate prizes of a value directly related to the available extraction surface on the target.

Abstract: A throwing training apparatus includes at least one, but preferably two approximately parallel planar guides that are positioned behind a user relative to a throwing target. The guides have at least a portion that is planar, wherein the throwing target is in the plane of the planar portion. In one embodiment, the planar guides may be configured as tubular arcs of, e.g., approximately 180 degrees, such that the have a C shape. While a user moves his or her hand in a throwing motion, the planar guides provide tactile feedback to the user indicating when the user is breaking a desired planar throwing motion. With repetition of the throwing motion using the present invention, one may develop muscle memory of the proper throwing form, which will enable one to consistently throw with the proper form without the aid of the training apparatus.

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 shot training device including a platform having a lower surface and an upper surface. The lower surface is positionable on a flat recipient surface. The upper surface receives a practicing player's feet thereon in a standing orientation. A tether is provided having a first end and a second end. The first end is adjustably secured to the platform. A glove is coupled with the second end of the tether. The glove has an opening therein for receiving a hand of the practicing player therein. The device is capable of detecting the angle and position of the glove following a shot to ascertain whether a shot was properly executed with the requisite “follow-through”.

Abstract: An athletic skill training apparatus includes a generally horizontal upper ring that defines an upper opening, preferably circular and the same diameter as a traditional basketball hoop, made from a strong, lightweight material. Three lower rings are attached to the upper ring and extend downwardly and inwardly to attach to a shock absorbing base member. The base member includes an upwardly extending projection with a rounded upper surface that tapers downwardly and outwardly to direct the basketball out of the lower rings. The rings and the base member form a goal assembly that is mounted on a support assembly telescopic post for use by children and adults.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for training a person to dribble a basketball and includes a basketball support, a strap coupled to the basketball support, and an attaching means adapted to secure the strap to a support structure. The invention permits the user to save time by positioning the basketball for start of practice and supports the ball so that a mishandled dribble or a collision between the ball and an obstacle will not lead to a loose ball that has to be chased down.

Abstract: A basketball training apparatus for improving shooting skills and accuracy on all playing levels. The basketball training apparatus is adapted for use with a basketball rim placed above a playing surface, and comprises a base on the playing surface beneath the basketball rim, a plurality of arms extending in radial directions from the base, a plurality of shooting markers spaced apart along the length of each arm, and vision markers attached to the basketball rim. Each vision marker is radially aligned with a corresponding one of the arms. With this arrangement, a user, when standing on one of the shooting markers and facing the basketball rim, is provided with visual shooting assistance as a result of the arm being radially aligned with one of the vision markers located on a region of the basketball rim that is nearest the user.

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: An athletic skill training apparatus includes a generally horizontal upper ring that defines an upper opening, preferably circular and the same diameter as a traditional basketball hoop, made from a strong, lightweight material. Three lower rings are attached to the upper ring and extend downwardly and inwardly to attach to a shock absorbing base member. The base member includes an upwardly extending projection with a rounded upper surface that tapers downwardly and outwardly to direct the basketball out of the lower rings. The rings and the base member form a goal assembly that is mounted on a support assembly telescopic post for use by children and adults.

Abstract: A basketball shooting aid having visually distinctive designs, configurations and colors for the purpose of sending immediate visual feedback to the athlete, informing the athlete whether the proper technique was employed in the athlete's grip of the basketball, the athlete's release of the shot and the arc and rotation of the basketball during flight.

Abstract: A method of enhancing the shooting skills of a basketball player. The method may be a game in which players on each team shoot a plurality of frames. Each frame consists of shooting a plurality of shots from various locations on a basketball court. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first frame includes shooting ten free throw shots. The second frame includes shooting ten shots from several locations beyond a conventional three point line. A third frame again includes ten shot attempts from the free throw line. A fourth frame includes ten shots from several locations beyond the three point line. A fifth frame includes shooting five shots from the free throw line. A sixth frame includes five shots taken from beyond the three point line. Points are assessed for each basket made, with additional points being tallied for making all the baskets in a frame. The team with the highest combined score wins the game.

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 game system including a large container, and a plurality of small containers. The game system further including figurines reflecting different types of animals, said game system including a player attempting to match up the various animals after drawing them from the large container.

Abstract: A training device includes a platform mounted on a wheel assembly. The platform has a rail for a support mechanism mounted thereon. On this support mechanism at least one training implement can be mounted and be supported therearound for use by an athlete in contacting the training device. In the platform is a control device for the wheel assembly, in order to adjust movement of the training device with respect to the type of training desired.

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 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. The feedback information may include one or more trajectory parameters that the human may use to evaluate their skill at sending the object along a desired trajectory. 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.