Portable hoops are great recreational tools. And if you choose a product that is both durable and adjustable, these portable basketball hoop systems are also long term investments that could provide years of enjoyment for the whole family.
Here we will be taking a closer look at one particular product that boasts both of those qualities. The Spalding 68395W NBA Portable Basketball Hoop is both durable and adjustable. Additionally, it comes from a very trustworthy brand. So is this basketball hoop worth getting, or should you choose something else? Let’s find out.
About The Product
The Spalding 68395W NBA Portable Basketball Hoop is an adjustable basketball hoop system that has a 54-inch polycarbonate backboard with an aluminium frame. Polycarbonate is one of the most durable materials for backboards in the market, and aluminium is a good choice for the frame. The rim is made of heavy duty solid steel. Overall, these features make it a very strong basketball hoop.
This offering from Spalding has a three piece, 4-inch square pole. The height adjustment system lets you adjust the basketball goal from 7.5 to 10 feet. The product also comes with a free pole pad that can be attached to the front of the pole. This adds an extra layer of protection for players. It comes in handy, especially when kids knock into the pole.
The base is 54 inches long, 34 inches wide, and about 7.5 inches tall. It can be filled with up to 40-gallons of water or sand for stability.
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What We Like
In terms of durability and adjustability, this is one of Spalding’s best basketball hoop offerings. The combination of the polycarbonate backboard and aluminum steel frame makes it a long-lasting hoop, that won’t just break with regular game play.
The backboard is extra large being 54” board, the average driveway size is 48”. So you can take a range of shots.
The adjustable height means that kids and teens and even adults can enjoy it once it has been installed. The height can be adjusted from 7.5 feet to 10 feet.
The 40-gallon base ensures that the basketball hoop remains sturdy while you’re playing. The hoop does not shake badly, when hit by a ball. The base can be filled with sand or water.
The backboard is polycarbonate, so a hard plastic, and does not shatter like glass, especially in cold climates. So these hoops should survive very cold winters, in those up in northern Ohio.
Spalding itself is a very reliable manufacturer—something that is evident through this product. Users say that they received their item in good condition and Spalding provides good customer support service, if required.
What We Don’t Like
Despite all of its great qualities, this product is not perfect. The most common complaint among users is that it is quite difficult to assemble. Reviewers say the instructions that come with the package are unclear, and the various nuts, bolts, and screws are not labeled in any way.
Aside from the “guessing game” that people have to do with the parts, the unit itself is quite hard to assemble the first time, because it takes at least two people to do it. It’s hard to assemble for one person, although a few users have managed it. Assembly may take two hours, even with the manual. We would advise having 2 people and even the kids to help with assembling the hoop.
At least one reviewer said that the package did not actually come with a pole pad.
Another issue is, the basketball hoop’s weight, particularly once the base has been filled with water or sand. It becomes very difficult to push around or relocate because it gets very heavy. And while this does ensure its stability, it also means you need to assemble it exactly where you want to place it. Otherwise, you might need at least two people to move it to another place.
The base does not have a drain hole, so it is difficult to empty the reservoir if you need to. Before filling the base, make sure to place the unit in the final position so that you won’t have to move it elsewhere.
Our Buying Advice
As you can see, this is a good basketball hoop system, but it does have some negatives. To start with, it would help if the instructions were clearer, to assist assembling the hoop. Also, the hoop doesn’t have wheels, which is a common feature among other portable basketball hoop systems. This makes the Spalding 68395W NBA Portable Basketball Hoop rather difficult to move around if required.
However, once you have the hoop in place, and you finally start playing, this is when the product’s other qualities start to shine. It is undeniably durable and sturdy, which is a signature for Spalding products.
Spalding is the official sponsor of the NBA, and it is also the world’s largest basketball equipment supplier. It is no surprise that the company can create high quality basketball systems that emulate the real basketball court experience. This particular product is a suitable long term investment, provided you can get through the first hurdle, which is assembling the whole thing!
Go for a Spalding basketball hoop if you want something that will last for many years. These hoops are perfect for kids, teenagers, and even adults who enjoy basketball in their free time.
Final Word
It is good to keep in mind that the Spalding 68395W NBA Portable Basketball Hoop is covered by a five-year limited warranty. If, for example, the durable backboard suddenly shatters, Spalding can provide a replacement.
This basketball hoop system is definitely worth considering, if you want a portable hoop that can keep up with your children’s high energy levels!
