by: Bill Gibson

There are many reasons for wanting to find a pro-style system when preparing to purchase a basketball goal. These reasons are important to consider when checking out the various options and features offered by each manufacturer.

The Minimum Requirements for a Professional Basketball System

One of the primary reasons that people are interested in the pro-style basketball systems is because they, or their children, aspire to become professionals in the game. Of course, it only makes sense that a proper professional basketball goal is used in practice or training. For this reason, having a pro-style goal serves a greater purpose than just providing a sense of authenticity when shooting basketball hoops. While shopping around for the right system, be sure to check that the basketball goals being considered fulfill at least the minimum criteria to be considered 'professional'. The standard features of a pro-style basketball goal should include:

Shatterproof tempered glass or acrylic backboard;

Flexible, breakaway basketball hoop;

Weather-resistant structure, including a specialized rustproof coating and nylon bushings where metal meets metal;

Height adjustment mechanism to set the precise level of the basketball hoop;

Thick, sturdy padding around the post of the basketball goal;

Must meet American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards for safety in basketball goal design.

The Bells and Whistles of a Basketball Hoop

The various basketball goal manufacturers offer numerous additional features that can make their system an even more desirable choice. Often, consumers find they prefer basketball hoops with special conveniences or key advantages when undertaking such a considerable investment. Some of these extra special features can include:

Motorized height adjustment;

Portability;

Nighttime basketball hoop lights

Easy do-it-yourself installation;

Guarantee of durability

Portability is a concept that many people generally do not associate with basketball goals. Most people assume that once they install their goal, it will at best add to the resale value of their home when they move because it will have to stay there. This is not always the case because some basketball goal manufacturers have designed the system to allow for portability. With many of these systems, the goal post footings are simply unbolted from the anchor installed within the concrete supporting the basketball hoop. Thereafter, the whole system, minus the old concrete and anchor, can be reinstalled at a new location. It is nothing more than a matter of pouring new concrete and laying in a new anchor for reinstallation.

Professional Basketball Hoops are not just for the Wealthy Pros

For many people looking to purchase a basketball goal, cost is often a consideration. The special features of pro basketball goals are obviously going to make them more costly than a basic portable or simplified residential system. The pro basketball hoops tend to range anywhere from around $700 to as much as $2,000 or more, with the higher-end goals including such options as motorized height adjustment and hoop lights. However, because many of them are designed for portability, an investment into a professional basketball system can be considered long-term, and worthwhile for individuals serious about their training.