Basketball return system

Abstract

The present invention, hereinafter referred to as the Basketball Return System employs a frame and net to catch the ball, whether made or missed, and funnels the ball directly back to the shooter at the free-throw line. The Basketball Return System consists of a frame to be clamped onto the basketball goal's backboard, and a net which hangs down from the frame and trails out toward the free-throw line. The frame is clamped to the bottom edge of the backboard, and extends downward slightly below the bottom of the backboard, tapering inward from the sides. The frame also extends upward on each side of the basket, with a forward-projecting fin or wall on each side of the hoop, and a shelf-like crosspiece projection above the hoop. From the bottom of the Basketball Return System frame is hung a net, similar in weave to the basketball net, and this net tapers inward from the frame and is laid out in a narrowing drape toward the free-throw line. The Basketball Return System prevents errant free-throw shots from rebounding outward from the goal and returns both made and missed shots to the feet of the player at the free-throw line.

1 . A mounted basketball return system device, comprising:
 a frame of semi-rigid material the same width as the basketball backboard and clamped onto the bottom edge of the basketball backboard and wherein said frame extends downward below the bottom of the backboard, and tapers inward from the sides; wherein the frame also extends upward on each side of the basket, with a forward-projecting fin or wall on each side of the hoop, and a shelf-like crosspiece projection above the hoop;   further comprising a net to catch the ball, wherein the net tapers inward from the frame and is laid out in a narrowing drape toward the free-throw line.   
     
     
         2 . The basketball return system device of  claim 1  wherein the frame is constructed of fiberglass. 
     
     
         3 . The basketball return system device of  claim 1  wherein the net is similar in weave to a basketball net.