881005 Spalding U-Turn Inground Basketball Hoop 54 in. Glass Backboard System

You’re not going to get a better system at this price point. Definitely requires some technical know how, but if you follow the instruction properly you won’t have any issues. Post does not sway and is solid, but I would be hesitant to remove it as it’s quite hefty with the proper amount of concrete filled. Likely just buy the system again if moving. I’ve read reviews of the backboard shattering, and can pinpoint it down to installation error. If the bolts aren’t torqued down properly and get loose, the the metal washers that go through the glass backboard will likely start rubbing or chipping the glass hole edges. Most people are aware that tempered glass is extremely durable unless there is small impact at it weak points which are usually side edges. Therefore, I would suggest making sure the washers aren’t touching the glass, use thread lock on the bolts and then torque down and it will not likely shift. Only small complaint I have is the post wrap is really expensive, and is actually included with some other brands Review Source: Manufacturer

I used an existing steel pole with this setup. The diameter was 4.5 vs 4 inches, I purchased slightly larger bolts and I’m very happy with the installation. Review Source: Manufacturer

this is our 2nd one.. moved and had to have a new one.. so went with what we knew to be great! Review Source: Manufacturer

PROS: direct bury (pole goes directly into the concrete) is sturdy AND if you fill the pole with concrete up to the arm holes it’ll last forever. Inground hoops are permanent. Anchor system poles or pedestal poles are great if you need to move it eventually, but you can’t fill the pole with concrete and get the added rigidity. Pedestal poles have to be thicker/ heavier gauge steel so more expensive. A bag of concrete is around $5. The crank mechanism is on the front with Nothing on the back. You could install right up against a fence or wall. Here are three things you should do: The rim bolts are too long for your average 1/2” deep socket and it’s hard to get a wrench on the nut to tighten them enough. Replace them with four shorter ones if you have them laying around. Second, USE LOCK NUTS! Glass backboards break from loose rims. Replace the four nuts with lock nuts or add the lock nuts on top of the others. Third, the crank actuator - it easily taken apart with one little bolt holding the crank-hook to the shaft. Remove the bolt and pull the actuator apart remembering where the washers/spacers go and GREASE THE ACME ROD threads with your favorite weather proof grease and put it back together. It will crank up and down way easier. They don’t put enough grease on there or it melts off over time. Doing these few things has kept me from returning to customer’s homes for repairs. I have been installing this exact Spalding Hoop since 1994. Review Source: Manufacturer

Hoop only goes up to 8 foot , despite 2 more holes for increased height Review Source: Manufacturer

We too had a shattered backboard with normal use. I've submitted a claim and we will see what happens. I've tried to search for a replacement as well and the models have changed so much it's hard to find a direct replacement. Hopefully Spalding will either replace or let me know what the direct replacement product is for a back board. Review Source: Manufacturer