Hone your jumpshot in your spare moments or perform a backyard dunking drill with the Lifetime 71729 in-ground basketball goal. Designed for permanent installations in cemented driveways, the 71729 includes such features as a Shatter Guard Fusion backboard, a spring-back Slam-It rim, and a patented Power Lift 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 71729 also comes with both a height adjustment mechanism and a spring-back rim. The Power Lift tool raises or lowers the rim from 7-1/2 to 10 feet in infinite increments without requiring a broomstick, crank, or other tool. The user simply squeezes the handle to activate the pneumatic mechanism, which lifts or lowers the backboard to the desired level. Thanks to the Power Lift technology, players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the game on their own terms, while aspiring dunkers can gradually raise the level an inch at a time as their vertical improves.
Unlike the Power Lift, the orange Slam-It rim is designed specifically for players who like to throw down. The solid-steel rim features double-compression springs that give way during dunks to protect the player, then spring back once released. The 5/8-inch rim is also supported by 1/2-inch braces, with welded-steel net hooks and an all-weather nylon net.
The 71729 system is topped off by a round 3.5-inch in-ground pole with straight rectangular extension arms that add stability to the backboard. The 71729, 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.
