ow Selecting The Right Hoop (NAPSA)—Basketball is one of America’s hottest sports. With its growing popularity come more equipment options. Today, you have portable basketball systems, in-grounds and backboard and rim combination units to select from. Which option is right for you and your family? Here’s a quick overview: * Portables: Approximately 80 percent of all hoops sold today are portable. Portable systems feature a base filled with water or sand for stability. The portable base rolls on wheels, allowing players to position the basketball system in a desired location. Simply assemble, fill the base and play today. * In-Grounds: An in-ground system is cemented into the ground. Some come with ground sleeves, which allow you to remove the system if you move. Ground sleeves are available as an accessory if your system does not come equipped. In-ground systems tend to be more rigid and take up less space than portables. * Backboard & Rim Combos: A backboard and rim combination unit attaches to your home, garage or an existing basketball pole. A mounting bracket must be purchased if you’re planning to mount the backboard to your home, garage or other structure. It’s not necessary if mounting to an existing pole. Once you've determined which system is best for you, make sure you follow these important safety q Ss tips when setting up your hoop: * Make sure you read and understandall instructions and warnings issued by the manufacturer. * If digging is required, call the utility company or Diggers Hotline to make sure you don't hit any underground cablesor electrical wires. * Watch for overhead telephoneand cable wires. Assumeall wiresarelive. * If you purchase a portable system, set it up and play ina safe area away from traffic. Never place the system in a street, alley or sidewalk area. By following these simple steps when selecting and installing your basketball system, you and your family will have years of fun and safe play. For more information, call or visit the Web site of the company who manufactured your basketball system.
