Basketball

Take your basketball game anywhere you want it with the Lifetime Pro Court 1221 Portable Basketball Hoop with 44 Inch Impact Backboard! You can take your bball game to the driveway, patio or cul-de-sac with a portable basketball hoop! Great for get-togethers and friendly family competition, this Lifetime portable system is height-adjustable for a good game anywhere, anytime. Made from patented high-density polyethylene plastic, the 1221 basketball goal is durable and resistant to chipping and cracking. The adjustable backboard is also U.V.-protected so the graphics wont fade. Constructed of powder-coated steel, this rugged system wont rust, for strength and beauty that last! Just set your height and go with this tough, convenient Lifetime Basketball System!

Hone your jump shot in your spare moments or perform a backyard dunking drill with this Lifetime portable basketball system. Unlike in-ground basketball hoops--which are typically anchored in concrete--this portable hoop rolls on wheels, letting you position the basket support in your desired location, from the back patio to the middle of the cul-de-sac. All you have to do is fill the 27-gallon base with water or sand and play.

The Lifetime hoop adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments.

Lifetime knows that younger players aren't always ready for a 10-foot hoop, which is why the basket boasts a height-adjustment mechanism. The telescoping mechanism adjusts from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments--no tools required--letting players of all ages and skill levels enjoy the game on their own terms. Aspiring dunkers can also gradually raise the basket 6 inches at a time as their vertical improves, although the 18-inch solid steel rim is not a breakaway rim. The black rim is instead extremely stable, with 1/2-inch steel braces, welded steel net hooks, and a 50-gram net.

And players needn't worry about the 44-inch backboard wearing dramatically over time thanks to the UV-protected, high-density polyethylene construction. This sturdy plastic material helps the board resist chipping and cracking while protecting the graphics from fading. Also equipped with a black, powder-coated, three-piece pole, the Lifetime system carries a five-year warranty.

About Lifetime
In the beginning, all the founder of Lifetime Products wanted was a sturdier basketball pole for his backyard. With this in mind, he found and purchased a piece of heavy-duty used pipe, a sheet of plywood, and a basketball rim. The resulting backyard basketball standard functioned perfectly in his backyard. Seeing the potential of his hoop, he placed an ad in the local free classified newspaper and made his first sale. The rest--as they say--is history. He created the American PlayWorld Company in 1973, based out of his garage in Riverdale, Utah. After expanding into several other types of playground equipment, he eventually moved to a bigger location in South Ogden, Utah. Several years later, the company transformed the basketball industry by introducing the Quick Adjust basketball pole, the first complete basketball system you could raise and lower with a broomstick. In 1986, American PlayWorld created Lifetime Products, a separate company intended to concentrate specifically on manufacturing adjustable basketball systems. In the ensuing years, the company has grown from having 18 employees in a 32,000-square-foot space in half a warehouse to more than 1,400 employees and 2.6 million square feet over 23 separate buildings.

An undisputed classic, first in sports, first in fashion. With canvas upper, cap toe and rubber sole. Imported.

The Spalding® NBA® outdoor 29.5-in basketball is designed to withstand the street game with a durable outdoor cover. It displays an NBA® logo.

Take it to the streets with Spalding's officially sized and affordably priced NBA Street basketball. It's designed to withstand the street game with a durable outdoor rubber cover. It features deep, black channels for expert handling on the court and all-ball pebbling for a good grip. This official NBA sized ball--with the official NBA logo and NBA Commissioner David Stern's signature--has a 29.5-inch circumference.

The official NBA logo is featured on this official-size ball.

The pebbled texture on the surface of the ball provides an outstanding grip and feel.

About Spalding
As a Division of Russell Corporation, the Spalding Group consists of three business units: Spalding in Springfield, MA; American Athletic, Inc. (AAI) in Jefferson, IA; and Huffy Sports, in Sussex, WI. The three companies, collectively combined, are now the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world. Spalding is the official basketball supplier of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and the official football of the Arena Football League (AFL) and Pop Warner.

An undisputed classic, first in sports, first in fashion. With canvas upper, cap toe and rubber sole. Imported.

29.5" circumference. MenÕs official size 7. Foam backed ZK Microfiber Composite. Wide channel. NFHS approved.

The number one choice for college and high school play, the Spalding TF-1000 official-size 29.5-inch basketball is designed to feel like broken-in leather from the start. Each ball is made of Spalding's exclusive ZK microfiber composite leather, which delivers unmatched feel and performance. Players will also love the advanced full-ball pebbling pattern and the foam-backed construction, which provide a superior grip game after game. Finally, the ball's deep channel design helps players efficiently control the dribble--a must for top-level competitive play. Spalding's finest institutional ball, the Spalding TF-1000 is also available in a 28.5-inch size.

About Spalding
As a Division of Russell Corporation, the Spalding Group consists of three business units: Spalding in Springfield, MA; American Athletic, Inc. (AAI) in Jefferson, IA; and Huffy Sports, in Sussex, WI. The three companies, collectively combined, are now the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world. Spalding is the official basketball supplier of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and the official football of the Arena Football League (AFL) and Pop Warner.

Teach the kids from an early age, the greatness that is Spalding. From the first basketball ever made to the preferred choice of the worlds premier basketball leagues, Spalding is the first choice in basketball.

Teach your kids to play ball from an early age with this Spalding mini NBA game ball. The ball feels just like a full-size NBA game ball, with a premium outdoor cover that provides a superior grip with every dribble. The ball also bounces better thanks to the Cross Traxxion two-panel construction. The panels result in 1/3 fewer channels, decreasing the surface undulation and helping the ball bounce truer and more consistent. And kids will love the official NBA game ball series graphics, which make the mini ball look just like the real thing.

These classic low-top kicks have remained true to the original Chuck Taylors to give your little one some authentic, old-school style.

The Spalding NBA Zio Indoor/Outdoor Composite 29.5 Mens Basketball is designed with a durable composite cover for indoor and outdoor use.

Built using a Zi/O composite leather cover, the Spalding official-size NBA Zi/O basketball looks and feels like an official NBA ball. The ball also includes a foam-backed design with full ball pebbling, helping it stand up to the challenge of competitive play while maintaining a soft, tacky feel. Best of all, the ball is designed for use both indoor and outdoor use, so you can bring it to the YMCA or the playground. Designed to meet all of the NBA's stringent ball specifications, the Zi/O ball measures 29.5 inches and comes in an official NBA ball weight.

About Spalding
As a Division of Russell Corporation, the Spalding Group consists of three business units: Spalding in Springfield, MA; American Athletic, Inc. (AAI) in Jefferson, IA; and Huffy Sports, in Sussex, WI. The three companies, collectively combined, are now the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world. Spalding is the official basketball supplier of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and the official football of the Arena Football League (AFL) and Pop Warner.

The Spalding NBA Varsity Rubber Ball is great for outdoor fun on the court!

Ideal for beginners, the officially sized and affordably priced Spalding Varsity Ball is ready to take your game to the streets. It's designed to withstand the street game with a durable outdoor rubber cover. It features deep, black channels for expert handling on the court and all-ball pebbling for a good grip. This official NBA sized ball--with official NBA logo--has a 29.5-inch circumference.

This official-size varsity basketball is endorsed by the NBA, so you know it has to be good--it's even signed by NBA Commissioner David Stern. We found it to have superlative grip and just the right amount of bounce for outdoor action. This premium Spalding ball has a durable rubber cover that is designed to last through all the dribbling, lay-ups, and slam dunks you can dish out. This men's size (29.5 inches) basketball is perfect for the adult or older teenaged beginning player. --M. Sullivan

The Spalding® NBA® intermediate rubber basketball is designed for junior players of all abilities. It features a durable outdoor cover with and NBA® logo.

This junior outdoor basketball is endorsed by the NBA, so you know it has to be good--it's even signed by NBA Commissioner David Stern. We found it to have superlative grip and just the right amount of bounce for outdoor action. This premium Spalding ball has a durable rubber cover that is designed to last through all the dribbling, lay-ups, and slam dunks you can dish out. The size 6 (28.5 inches) basketball is ideal for players ages 9 to 12. --M. Sullivan

High-definition pebble surface improves grip, feel and performance. Core-cushion technology features low-density sponge rubber with butyl rubber for a softer feel. Includes 3-ply nylon thread winding, thermal-molded rubber bladder and "Air Tite" butyl rubber valve and housing. Official size and weight. NFHS approved.

Play with the same ball the Pros use! The Spalding Official NBA Indoor Leather 29.5 Mens Game Basketball is the same full grain leather ball used in NBA games. Used for indoor play only.

Played by the professional athletes of the NBA since 1983, Spalding's NBA Official Game Ball sets the standard for ultimate performance and playability. This Classic edition of the Game Ball replaces the micro-fiber version that was used in the NBA during the 2007/08 season. It's made from the finest full grain leather to provide exceptional feel and touch while slashing to the hoop. It's a great choice for top-level indoor play, and it's durable enough to handle rough-and-tumble outdoor games. This ball meets all stringent official size and weight specifications set by the NBA.

About Spalding
As a Division of Russell Corporation, the Spalding Group consists of three business units: Spalding in Springfield, MA; American Athletic, Inc. (AAI) in Jefferson, IA; and Huffy Sports, in Sussex, WI. The three companies, collectively combined, are now the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world. Spalding is the official basketball supplier of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and the official football of the Arena Football League (AFL) and Pop Warner.

The adidas® Striker women's soccer short is a classic short that's perfect for practice or your next game. It's crafted using the moisture-wicking ClimaLite® fabric to help keep you cool and dry. An internal drawcord ensures an optimal fit.

The vision of company founder Adolf Dassler has long become reality, and his corporate philosophy the guiding principle for successor generations. The idea was as simple as it was brilliant. Adi Dassler's aim was to provide every athlete with the best possible equipment. It all began in 1920, when Adi Dassler made his first shoes using the few materials available after the First World War.

The adidas name dates back to 1948, deriving from the first two syllables of Adi Dassler's first and last name. One year later, Adi Dassler registered the Three Stripes as a trademark. After a period spanning almost 70 years, the Dassler Family withdrew from the company in 1989, and the enterprise was transformed into a corporation ("Aktiengesellschaft"). French-born Robert Louis-Dreyfus was Chairman of the Executive Board from April 1993 to March 2001. It was he who initiated adidas' flotation on the stock market in November 1995. adidas--a name that stands for competence in all sectors of sport around the globe. Today, the adidas product range extends from shoes, apparel and accessories for basketball, soccer, fitness and training to adventure, trail and golf.

The Spalding 8406 Universal Basketball Backboard and Rim Mounting Bracket is designed to fit most Huffy and Spalding Backboard and Rim Combos. The Huffy universal mounting bracket allows you to attach a new basketball backboard and rim to an existing 3 1/2 inch round pole, roof or wall.

Place a backboard and hoop just about anywhere with the Huffy 8406 Mounting Bracket for use with all Huffy basketball backboards. It provides a fixed height basketball system that can mount to a 3.5-inch round pole, wall, or roof.

The Spalding 72354 Portable Basketball Hoop with 48 Inch Polycarbonate Backboard features a three piece 3 Inch pole and the Slam Jam breakaway basketball rim. The polycarbonate backboard is five times stronger than typical acrylic, making it nearly impervious to cracking or shattering. The Pro Glide lift system allows you to easily adjust the basketball hoop from 7.5 - 10 feet in 6 Inch increments.

Enjoy years of recreational basketball fun in your backyard with the Spalding residential portable basketball system (model 72354), which features a 37.5-gallon base that fills with water or sand for stability. It offers a three-piece, 3.5-inch diameter silver pole and the Pro Glide lift system for easy height adjustment from 7.5 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments. It's matched with a 48-inch steel-framed poly-carbonate backboard, 5/8-inch solid steel Slam Jam breakaway rim, and an all-weather net.

Portable basketball systems depend on a base filled with sand or water for stability. Although it will take up more space than an in-ground system, the portable base rolls on wheels, allowing players to position the basketball system in the desired location (and also allowing storage in a garage). Simply assemble, fill the base and play today. There is no fussing with concrete.

Manufacturer's Warranty
5-year limited warranty

37.5 gallon base fills with water or sand for stability.

48-inch polycarbonate backboard and Slam Jam breakaway rim.

About Spalding
As a Division of Russell Corporation, the Spalding Group consists of three business units: Spalding in Springfield, MA; American Athletic, Inc. (AAI) in Jefferson, IA; and Huffy Sports, in Sussex, WI. The three companies, collectively combined, are now the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world. Spalding is the official basketball supplier of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and the official football of the Arena Football League (AFL) and Pop Warner.

Amazon.com Basketball System Buying Guide
With the high-quality construction of many portable basketball systems, turning your driveway into a basketball court can be as simple as hooking up your garden hose. But while a portable system may ultimately be your best choice, there are reasons you may want to consider an in-ground or wall-mount system before you decide.

In-Ground Systems
In-ground systems are permanently cemented into the ground--either via a bolt mounting kit or directly into the ground--and are generally more rigid and take up less space than portables. In-ground systems often require that you hire a professional to complete the task, but when the cement dries you'll have a hoop that can take punishing dunks with ease.

Many in-ground systems are height-adjustable, include removable post features that let you take the system down for off-season storage, and feature heavy-duty break-away rims. You'll also want to research the adjustable mechanisms on the systems, as there are several types to choose from. Some feature a counter-balance spring that lets you perform easy, one-hand adjustments while others may feature a sturdy, pneumatic system.

Wall-Mount Systems
Wall-mount systems can be mounted to the side of a house, a tall retaining wall, or a garage. Generally sturdier than portables, wall-mounts have the added advantage of optimizing your existing ground space for the court, since you won't take any space up with the base or pole. Not all systems include the necessary hardware, so make certain you add a mounting kit to your list.

Portable Systems
Portable systems require minimal installation and offer ultimate convenience. These systems generally feature a base that can be filled with sand or water to stabilize them and include wheels for portability. Although they are not as sturdy as in-ground or wall-mounted hoops, portables are simple to set up and can often be folded for convenient storage.

Backboard Considerations
Regardless of which system you choose, you'll want to brush up on Backboards 101. Most residential systems feature backboards made of acrylic, fiberglass, graphite, or various other composite materials. While clear acrylic gives the professional look and feel of glass, it is not as rigid as fiberglass or graphite. Some systems may offer steel or aluminum backboards, which are virtually vandal resistant, but don't offer the true rebounding action.

The regulation size of an NBA backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most portable hoops are 42 or 44 inches wide and 36 inches tall. In-ground systems tend to be a bit larger, with 54-inch and 60-inch widths being the most popular. While rectangular shaped backboards provide more bank shot opportunities, they are generally more expensive than the streamlined fan-shaped board.

NBA Youth Basketball, Size 5, Training Size For Ages 4-10 Years, High Quality Rubber With Deep Pebbles For A Great Feel, Features NBA Graphics.

This youth basketball is endorsed by the NBA, so you know it has to be good--it's even signed by NBA Commissioner David Stern. We found it to have superlative grip and just the right amount of bounce for outdoor action. This premium Spalding ball has a durable rubber cover that is designed to last through all the dribbling, lay-ups, and slam dunks you can dish out. The size 5 (27.5 inches) basketball is ideal for players ages 5 to 8. --M. Sullivan

Finally, a pair of basketball shoes designed to amplify the fire you bring to the game. These devils deliver 360-degree ClimaCool® comfort, adiPRENE®+ propulsion and a fitFOAM™ midsole. And to suit your mercurial tastes, there's a set of interchangeable adidas stripes to fit your fancy.

The skilled player is versatile, capable, able. This is their shoe. adidas's marquee team model, the Pro Model 08 features enhanced cushioning for better ankle support and comfort.

314192-009

The Spalding 80318 Basketball Backboard and Rim Combo with 44 Inch Eco Composite Backboard features a 44 Inch eco composite backboard and Slam Jam breakaway basketball rim. The Spalding 80318 backboard and rim combo is great for mounting to a pole, garage, wall, or roof. Mounting bracket sold separately.

Enjoy years of recreational basketball fun with this Spalding rim and a backboard combo. It features a 44-inch Eco-Composite backboard (made from recycled materials) with an old-school rectangular design, which holds the solid steel Slam Jam breakaway rim complete with an all-weather net. This combo fits on round or square poles.

This adidas TS BOUNCE Commander 3 basketball shoe sets the pace as you strive to dominate the court like Boston?s Kevin Garnett. With adiPRENE+ forefoot propulsion, a TORSION SYSTEM midfoot and a BOUNCE design that brings more energy to every step.BOUNCE turns every last bit of your energy into forward momentum.Synthetic leather upper for durability and support.Textile lining for comfort; Polyurethane insole for durability and comfort.adiPRENE+ in the forefoot maintains propulsion and efficiency.TORSION SYSTEM for midfoot integrity; Dual-density midsole.Non-marking rubber outsole.Imported.Protection for your heel. Exclusive to adidas, adiPRENE is an elastic material which responds to the cushioning needs of your moving foot. adiPRENE absorbs impact forces, providing superior cushioning and protection.

When you leave it all on the court like Dwight, you need any edge you can get. BOUNCE brings superior cushion and maximum energy return in each step to make you an elite player.

Unique design helps condition players to dribble and handle the ball without looking down Does not interfere with shooting

Packed 1 per poly bag. Corset Style nets have 12 loops. Middle of net is drawn in to control flight of ball through net. Polyethylene 120 thread. Blister card. NBA endorsed. No. 8284S: White No. 8279S: Red, white, and blue

This Adidas Adissage Slide features solid color massage nubs that give a relaxing feel against your feet!

A clean, sporty slide that cuts out the frills and goes straight for the aah! An adjustable strap gives you quick-fit comfort and the full-length massage footbed makes your feet feel great.

These classic hi-top kicks have remained true to the original Chuck Taylors to give your little one some authentic, old-school style.

You can drive to the the hoop and score off the glass on the Lifetime® 71799 Shatterguard Fusion 50-in Action Grip In-Ground Basketball System. Complete with a shatterguard fusion backboard and a Slam-it rim for long-lasting use, the system is supported by a 3-piece, 3.5-in round action grip pole.

Hone your jumpshot in your spare moments or perform a backyard dunking drill with the Lifetime 71799 in-ground basketball goal. Designed for permanent installations in cemented driveways, the 71799 includes such features as a Shatter Guard backboard, a spring-back Slam-It Rim, and an Action Grip pole mechanism for speedy height changes.

The goal's sturdiness stems from the cement-ready base, which is more rigid and takes up less space than portable basketball goals (it does require roughly 72 hours of cement drying time, however). The clear 50-inch Shatter Guard backboard, meanwhile, is made of Makrolon polycarbonate, which is virtually unbreakable and 30 times stronger than acrylic. As a result, broken backboards are a thing of the past, even from errant rocks and other non-basketball threats. In addition, the board offers a UV coating that prevents yellowing over time, a high-impact polyethylene frame, and screen-printed inks for fade-resistant color.

Lifetime knows that dunking and above-the-rim play are a huge part of modern basketball, which is why the 71799 also comes with both a height adjustment mechanism and a spring-back rim. The three-piece, 3.5-inch Action Grip pole includes counter-balance springs that make it easy to raise or lower the rim from 7-1/2 to 10 feet in 6-inch increments without requiring a broomstick, crank, or other tool. Thanks to the Action Grip technology, players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the game on their own terms, while aspiring dunkers can gradually raise the level 6 inches at a time as their vertical improves. The orange Slam-It Rim, meanwhile, is designed specifically for players who like to throw down. The orange solid-steel rim features double-compression springs that give way during dunks to protect the player, then spring back once released. The rim is also supported by 1/2-inch braces, with welded-steel net hooks and an all-weather nylon net.

The 71799, which is protected by a powder-coated, weather-resistant finish, comes with a five-year warranty.

Amazon.com Basketball System Buying Guide
With the high-quality construction of many portable basketball systems, turning your driveway into a basketball court can be as simple as hooking up your garden hose. But while a portable system may ultimately be your best choice, there are reasons you may want to consider an in-ground or wall-mount system before you decide.

In-Ground Systems
In-ground systems are permanently cemented into the ground--either via a bolt mounting kit or directly into the ground--and are generally more rigid and take up less space than portables. In-ground systems often require that you hire a professional to complete the task, but when the cement dries you'll have a hoop that can take punishing dunks with ease.

Many in-ground systems are height-adjustable, include removable post features that let you take the system down for off-season storage, and feature heavy-duty break-away rims. You'll also want to research the adjustable mechanisms on the systems, as there are several types to choose from. Some feature a counter-balance spring that lets you perform easy, one-hand adjustments while others may feature a sturdy, pneumatic system.

Wall-Mount Systems
Wall-mount systems can be mounted to the side of a house, a tall retaining wall, or a garage. Generally sturdier than portables, wall-mounts have the added advantage of optimizing your existing ground space for the court, since you won't take any space up with the base or pole. Not all systems include the necessary hardware, so make certain you add a mounting kit to your list.

Portable Systems
Portable systems require minimal installation and offer ultimate convenience. These systems generally feature a base that can be filled with sand or water to stabilize them and include wheels for portability. Although they are not as sturdy as in-ground or wall-mounted hoops, portables are simple to set up and can often be folded for convenient storage.

Backboard Considerations
Regardless of which system you choose, you'll want to brush up on Backboards 101. Most residential systems feature backboards made of acrylic, fiberglass, graphite, or various other composite materials. While clear acrylic gives the professional look and feel of glass, it is not as rigid as fiberglass or graphite. Some systems may offer steel or aluminum backboards, which are virtually vandal resistant, but don't offer the true rebounding action.

The regulation size of an NBA backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most portable hoops are 42 or 44 inches wide and 36 inches tall. In-ground systems tend to be a bit larger, with 54-inch and 60-inch widths being the most popular. While rectangular shaped backboards provide more bank shot opportunities, they are generally more expensive than the streamlined fan-shaped board.

The Santiossage slides give you a stylish and comfortable design. These slides for men from adidas have an adjustable PVC strap with convenient VELCRO® brand closure and a cushioned heel pad for added comfort.

Adidas' Santiossage Slide is a classic, ever-popular massage slide to wear when you're finished wearing the other team thin. This massage slide gives your feet a great fit and extra pampering. The shoes feature a PVC upper, hook-and-loop adjustment, massage knobs, and a polyurethane footbed.

From workout to weekend, these Adidas shorts will elevate your stay-active style.

The first ever ball with Pressure Retention Technology!

The first ever basketball to employ Spalding's Pressure Retention Technologies, the Spalding Never Flat outdoor basketball is the only ball guaranteed to stay fully inflated for at least one year--10 times longer than traditional basketballs. The Never Flat ball is equipped with a new membrane technology that tightens the natural pores in the bladder. The exclusive technology relies on proprietary Nitroflate molecules that are injected into the ball. The molecules form a protective barrier against air seepage, in effect repelling air molecules that might otherwise escape.

The ball further prevents leakage with its specially designed valve, which includes a cap that eliminates leaks and keeps dirt out. Despite the leakproof technologies, however, the Never Flat shares the same top-level composite leather construction as the leading basketballs, giving it exceptional grip and control. The Never Flat basketball measures 29.5 inches in diameter, although a 28.5-inch version is available.

The Spalding 79307 Basketball Backboard and Rim Combo with 52 Inch Polycarbonate Backboard features a 52 Inch polycarbonate backboard and Pro Image breakaway basketball rim. The Spalding 79307 backboard and rim combo is great for mounting to a pole or wall. Mounting bracket sold separately.

Designed to mount to a square pole or wall, this Spalding backboard and rim combo will turn your backyard or driveway into a jump-shooting haven. The backboard/rim combo starts with a 52-inch, 4.5mm polycarbonate backboard with a heavy-duty aluminum frame. The board offers the same action as glass backboards, helping you shoot layups and bank shots with confidence.

The Pro Image breakaway basketball rim, meanwhile, holds up well against the force of emphatic slams--a must for modern hoops. Other features include a white all-weather net, a 2-7/8-by-2-1/2-inch rim hole pattern, and a total weight of 40 pounds. The board is compatible with the following mounting brackets (sold separately): the Spalding 920312 extension arm and bracket for 4-inch square basketball poles or the Spalding 316 U-Turn adjustable extension arm and bracket for square basketball poles. The backboard carries a five-year warranty while the rim is backed by a one-year warranty.

About Spalding
As a Division of Russell Corporation, the Spalding Group consists of three business units: Spalding in Springfield, MA; American Athletic, Inc. in Jefferson, IA; and Huffy Sports, in Sussex, WI. The three companies, collectively combined, are now the largest basketball equipment supplier in the world. Spalding is the official basketball supplier of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA, the official volleyball of the King of the Beach Volleyball Tour and the official football of the Arena Football League (AFL) and Pop Warner.

Amazon.com Basketball System Buying Guide
With the high-quality construction of many portable basketball systems, turning your driveway into a basketball court can be as simple as hooking up your garden hose. But while a portable system may ultimately be your best choice, there are reasons you may want to consider an in-ground or wall-mount system before you decide.

In-Ground Systems
In-ground systems are permanently cemented into the ground--either via a bolt mounting kit or directly into the ground--and are generally more rigid and take up less space than portables. In-ground systems often require that you hire a professional to complete the task, but when the cement dries you'll have a hoop that can take punishing dunks with ease.

Many in-ground systems are height-adjustable, include removable post features that let you take the system down for off-season storage, and feature heavy-duty break-away rims. You'll also want to research the adjustable mechanisms on the systems, as there are several types to choose from. Some feature a counter-balance spring that lets you perform easy, one-hand adjustments while others may feature a sturdy, pneumatic system.

Wall-Mount Systems
Wall-mount systems can be mounted to the side of a house, a tall retaining wall, or a garage. Generally sturdier than portables, wall-mounts have the added advantage of optimizing your existing ground space for the court, since you won't take any space up with the base or pole. Not all systems include the necessary hardware, so make certain you add a mounting kit to your list.

Portable Systems
Portable systems require minimal installation and offer ultimate convenience. These systems generally feature a base that can be filled with sand or water to stabilize them and include wheels for portability. Although they are not as sturdy as in-ground or wall-mounted hoops, portables are simple to set up and can often be folded for convenient storage.

Backboard Considerations
Regardless of which system you choose, you'll want to brush up on Backboards 101. Most residential systems feature backboards made of acrylic, fiberglass, graphite, or various other composite materials. While clear acrylic gives the professional look and feel of glass, it is not as rigid as fiberglass or graphite. Some systems may offer steel or aluminum backboards, which are virtually vandal resistant, but don't offer the true rebounding action.

The regulation size of an NBA backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most portable hoops are 42 or 44 inches wide and 36 inches tall. In-ground systems tend to be a bit larger, with 54-inch and 60-inch widths being the most popular. While rectangular shaped backboards provide more bank shot opportunities, they are generally more expensive than the streamlined fan-shaped board.

Many shoeheads consider the Air Force One to be the perfect shoe and they may be correct considering this line has survived 25 years and remained one of the most popular Nike styles, bringing in approximately 1 billion a year. For the 25th anniversary, Nike has actually improved on the perfect shoe to make it the ultimate. A number of upgrades went into the Nike Air Force One '07. The major upgrades are: Standardized cup sole to eliminate inconsistences in fit. All Nike factories use this new cup sole model which conforms to the foot shape. Seamless interior to prevent discomfort and friction from stitching and seams. Contoured tongue. The original version had a flattened tongue which did not conform to the top of the foot. Natural ankle shape. The '07 AF1 follows the contours of the wearer's ankle. Fans of the classic white on white Air Force will be pleased to note that the AF1 '07 is whiter than ever. A special effort was made to make the new white/white version a bright, clean white. The lace debray (tag) is studier and more consistent with the shape of the lace. Fans will also note that the debray has changed from a simple silver piece to silver with a white inset bearing the word "AF-1" and the year "'82" below. The new Air Force features stain resistent laces to help keep your kicks looking fresh. Removable aiglets allow the wearer to use them on new shoelaces.