Linn E Townsend

US Patent:

57795690, Jul 14, 1998

Filed:

Mar 12, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/820433

Inventors:

Linn Edward Townsend - Nevada City CA
Daniel Lathe Townsend - Marysville CA

International Classification:

A63B 6900

US Classification:

473433

Abstract:

A ball return chute for a basketball hoop, and a modular basket assembly utilizing the novel chute. The chute engages the hoop by C-shaped members which slip over the rod stock of the hoop at the slot formed in each C. The chute can be rotated three hundred sixty degrees about the hoop, so as to return a ball passing downwardly through the hoop in any selected direction. The basket assembly includes a bracket for permanent attachment to a vertical environmental surface. The bracket has hooks or equivalent receptacles for receiving trunnion arms formed in a member projecting from the hoop. The hoop may thus be removably supported in an operable position by the bracket. The hoop and attached chute are removed from and installed on the bracket when desired.