Apparatus for returning basketballs to freethrow line
OwnerOtto L. Hektorinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An apparatus for returning basketballs falling in front of the backboard to a shooter at the freethrow line. The apparatus may be mounted to the backboard, a free-standing post supporting the backboard, or to the hoop bracket. The apparatus contains a closed frame which bends down away from the backboard. The closed frame supports a return surface such as webbing or sheeting. Sidestops are rotatably and removably secured to the closed frame for the purpose of ensuring the return of more balls which fail to go through the hoop. The apparatus may be easily attached for use, detached following use or swung into an out-of-the way storage position.
Claims12
An apparatus for returning basketballs from a position under or adjacent to a basketball hoop having a hoop bracket and mounted on a backboard in a direction toward a corresponding freethrow line, which apparatus comprises:
- (1) a closed frame comprising (a) a proximal member having a side-to-side dimension which is about the same as the side-to-side dimension of the backboard, (b) a distal member having the shape of a rounded "V", and (c) two side members, proceeding from the proximal member to the distal member, each of the side members containing an angle in a downward direction;
- each side member, proximal to the downward angle, containing a rectangular side stop;
- each of the two side stops extending substantially from the proximal end of the side member to the downward angle;
- each side stop containing a distal end, a top edge, a proximal end and a return means;
- (2) a return surface being a single continuous member having a central axis and being connected on all sides to the closed frame so that, when in the operating position, the return surface slopes downwardly from the sides to the central axis and slopes downwardly from the proximal end to the distal end under the weight of the basketball;
- and
- (3) a main hanging brace comprises an upper member and two side members, the upper member being above and parallel to the proximal member of the closed frame;
- and the two side members of the main hanging brace having upper and lower ends, the lower ends being "J" shaped and capable of holding the proximal member of the closed frame, the lower ends of the side members of the hanging brace and the proximal member of the closed frame being provided with openings which are aligned to provide access by a locking device.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.