A Brief Guide To Basketball Hoops

In basketball the points are scored when a player throws a ball into a hoop suspended 10ft above the ground. In the NBA and NWBA the official size of the basketball hoop is 18in (46cm) in diameter. The net that extends from the hoop ranges from 15-18in (38-46cm) in length and is usually made from nylon. The hoop is made from metal, usually steel and in competitive games is connected to a backboard.


The creator of basketball was Dr. James Naismith. He created basketball in 1891 at the College of Springfield. He used a football as the ball and a peach basket as the hoop. He attached the hoop to the balcony of the gym, which was 10ft high. A person had to stand by the basket so that when points were scored they could throw the ball back to the players so the game could restart. This was thought to be impractical so a hole was cut in the bottom.


During its infancy the hoop was attached to a balcony in the gym, this meant spectators were able to affect shots. This prompted the need for the backboard to be brought in, to which the hoop would be attached. Another advantage of this was that for the first time rebound shots could be played.


The more expensive hoops for sale are connected to a back plate which houses a spring system. This system allows for the hoop to be manipulated so that it can be pulled down when skills such as a 'slam dunk' are made. Not only does this prevent the hoop from breaking but also makes the skill mentioned above easier to perform. After the skill has been performed the hoop returns to its original position.


Red is the most popular color of basketball hoop however there are loads of different colors to choose from. Another type of hoop system has hoops that can be detached from the back plate. These are known as 'break away rims'. The advantage of these 'break away rims' is that when a large amount of force is placed on the hoop the rim breaks off before any damage to the backboard occurs. They are commonly used in the NBA and NWBA. The rims are easy to replace. For good quality replacement rims to pay $30-$50 for these would be reasonable.


There are many versions of hoops on the general market. The cheaper models that do not include this spring based system start from as little as $20. 00 whereas the spring fitted systems can be as expensive as $300. It is possible to purchase a model where by the hoop, backboard and base are packaged together therefore not requiring a wall to affix the hoop too. These models can range from around $80 to in excess of $600.


Hoops can also be purchased with adjustable poles these allow for customizable height so that younger players are able to play the game with a basket height relative to their own.


Some producers of basketball hoop include Huffy, Lifetime, Spalding and Hybrid although other producers of basketball hoops are available.