BASKETBALL TRAINING DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

Method and various devices and systems directed towards teaching, training and developing a shooter to increase the accuracy of shooting a basketball are provided. The method comprises shooting a basketball with centerline straightness, 43-45 degree basketball hoop entry angle and 11 inch shot-depth. Embodiments of the physical devices of the invention, which may be used singly or in various combination, comprise a centerline-straightness target acquisition portion, a shot-depth target acquisition potion and an arc-angle target acquisition portion that teach, develop and reinforce consistent, accurate basketball shooting. A bracket assembly is disclosed for detachably attaching the device embodiments to a basketball backboard above the basketball hoop rim.

Claims

1. A basketball shooting training device for use with a basketball backboard and hoop assembly, comprising: a centerline straightness assembly portion; and a shot-depth assembly portion; wherein the centerline straightness assembly portion is comprised of a centerline target extension element, said centerline target extension element comprising an upper first end, a lower second end and a center axis extending through said first end and second end, wherein during use the centerline straightness assembly portion is suspended above the hoop such that said center axis of the centerline target extension element is substantially perpendicular (90 degrees) to a plane of the hoop and aligned with a diametric center of the hoop; wherein the shot-depth assembly portion is detachably attached to said lower second end of the centerline target extension element and freely swivels therefrom; and wherein during use of the training device, the training device is suspended above the hoop of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly.

2. The training device of claim 1, wherein the shot-depth assembly portion is comprised of: a lower circular rim element; an upper portion for detachable attachment to the lower second end of the centerline target extension element; and one or more side support elements that connect the lower circular rim element to the upper portion, wherein the lower circular rim element is comprised of a circumference that is substantially the same as a circumference of the hoop of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly.

3. The training device of claim 2, wherein the training device is further comprised of a swivel element for detachably attaching the shot-depth assembly portion to the lower second end of the centerline target extension element and for allowing the shot-depth assembly portion to freely swivel therefrom.

4. The training device of claim 3, wherein during use of the training device, a plane of the lower circular rim element is parallel to the plane of the hoop of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly.

5. The training device of claim 3, wherein during use of the training device, the shot-depth assembly portion is suspended from the centerline target extension element above the hoop of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly wherein the circumference of the lower circular rim element is substantially aligned with the circumference of the hoop of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly.

6. The training device of claim 2, wherein the side support element is comprised of a plurality of support rib elements whereby the shot-depth assembly portion is substantially see-through to a user.

7. The training device of claim 1, further comprising a bracket assembly portion, wherein the centerline straightness assembly portion detachably attaches to and secures with said bracket assembly portion and wherein said bracket assembly portion detachably attaches and secures to the backboard of the backboard and hoop assembly.

8. The training device of claim 7, wherein the bracket assembly portion is further comprised of a mounting element for detachable attachment and securing the centerline straightness assembly portion, said mounting element comprising a first upper aperture, a second lower aperture for receiving the first upper portion of the centerline target extension element, a hollow inner portion through which the centerline target extension element is inserted and secured, an outer portion and a securing element for securing the centerline target extension element.

9. The training device of claim 8, said securing element comprising a threaded bolt and manual grip element for insertion, tightening and untightening through a corresponding threaded aperture in the outer portion of the mounting element.

10. The training device of claim 7, wherein the bracket assembly portion is further comprised of at least one backboard securing bracket for detachable attachment and securing of the bracket assembly portion to the backboard of the backboard and hoop assembly, said backboard securing bracket comprising a top support element, a back support element and a front support element configured for placement of the bracket assembly portion over a top end of the backboard.

11. The training device of claim 10, said backboard securing bracket further comprising a threaded bolt and manual grip element for insertion, tightening and untightening through a corresponding threaded aperture in the back support element or the front support element for securing the bracket assembly to the backboard.

12. The training device of claim 1, further comprising an arc-angle assembly portion, said arc-angle assembly portion comprising: at least one shot-arc target; a shot-arc target support element; an attachment support element for detachable attachment and securing of the arc-angle assembly portion to the centerline extension element, wherein the shot-arc target support element is substantially in the shape of a semi-circle, defined by a straight diameter edge, a center point thereon, and a semi-circumference edge, said semi-circumference edge being equal distance from the center point and extending from a first endpoint of the diameter edge to a second endpoint of the diameter edge, wherein a length of said diameter edge is substantially the same length as a diameter of the hoop of the basketball backboard and hoop assembly, wherein the attachment support element corresponded with the center point of the straight diameter edge, and wherein the at least one shot-arc target extends outward from the semi-circumference edge at an angle of about 40-50 relative to a plane comprising the shot-arc target support element and radiates from the semi-circumference edge relative to the center point of the straight diameter edge.

13. The training device of claim 12, wherein the attachment support element is comprised of a first upper aperture, a second lower aperture for receiving the first upper portion of the centerline target extension element, a hollow inner portion through which the centerline target extension element is inserted and secured, an outer portion and a securing element for securing the centerline target extension element.

14. The training device of claim 13, said securing element comprising a threaded bolt and manual grip element for insertion, tightening and untightening through a corresponding threaded aperture in the outer portion of the attachment support element.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective side view graphically depicting a basketball entering a basketball hoop plane in accordance with the shooting method.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a perspective top view graphically depicting a basketball entering a basketball hoop plane in accordance with the shooting method.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of various device portions or embodiments of the invention comprising a centerline-straightness portion, a shot-depth assembly portion and an arc-angle assembly portion detachably attached to a backboard above a basketball hoop by a bracket assembly portion.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of various device portions or embodiments of the invention comprising a centerline-straightness portion, a shot-depth assembly portion and an arc-angle assembly portion detachably attached to a backboard above a basketball hoop by a bracket assembly portion.

[0045] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of various device portions or embodiments of the invention without a shot-arc assembly portion.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of various device portions or embodiments of the invention.

[0047] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of various device portions or embodiments of the invention comprising a centerline-straightness portion, a shot-depth assembly portion and an arc-angle assembly portion detachably attached to a backboard above a basketball hoop by a bracket assembly.

[0048] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the bracket assembly for use with various embodiments of the invention.

[0049] FIG. 7A is a more detailed perspective view of the bracket assembly for use with various embodiments of the invention.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a perspective view (from beneath) of the combination centerline/shot-angle assembly portion or embodiment of the invention detachably attached to a basketball backboard by a bracket assembly.

[0051] FIG. 9 is a perspective view (from above) of the combination centerline/shot-angle assembly portion or embodiment of the invention detachably attached to a basketball backboard by a bracket assembly.

FIGURE REFERENCES

[0052] Physical embodiments of the invention comprise various device elements, features, portions and assemblies, singly or in combination, and are depicted in full combination in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5. FIGS. 6-9 further depict various device elements, features, portions and assemblies of embodiments of the invention in closer detail. The following is a listing of the reference numbers and the associated elements and features of the devices as shown in the attached illustrations: [0053] 10 Regulation size basketball backboard [0054] 20 Regulation basketball rim/hoop attached to backboard [0055] 30 Centerline/Shot-Depth Assembly Portion [0056] 30A Shot-Depth Assembly Portion [0057] 32 Dome element [0058] 32A Swivel member/means (allowing dome element 32 to freely suspend and swivel from a first end 34A of centerline target extension element 34) [0059] 32B Dome element rim [0060] 32C Dome element support ribs/elements [0061] 36 Upper dome portion [0062] 36A Aperture in upper dome portion 36 through which a swivel member/means (e.g., swivel ball, in an embodiment) 32A connects to first end 34A of centerline target extension element 34, allowing dome member to freely swivel) [0063] 30B Centerline Element [0064] 34 Centerline target extension element (to raise/lower height of shot-depth assembly portion 30A above basketball rim 20) [0065] 34A First, lower terminus end of centerline target extension element 34 [0066] 34B Second, upper terminus end of centerline target extension element 34 [0067] 40 Bracket Assembly Portion [0068] 42 Bracket extenders [0069] 44 Bracket backboard attachment brace [0070] 46 Bracket backboard attachment top support [0071] 47 Knob/screw/attachment means (to detachably attach bracket backboard attachment brace 44 to bracket backboard attachment top support 46 and tightly secure to backboard 10) [0072] 48 Bracket backboard back support brace [0073] 49 Centerline extension mounting element (to detachably attach centerline target extension element 34 to bracket assembly portion 40) [0074] 49A Knob/screw/securing means (to detachably attach and secure centerline target extension element 34 to centerline extension mounting element 49) [0075] 49B Receiving mounting aperture in centerline extension mounting element 49 (through which centerline target extension element 34 extends for detachable attachment, adjustment and securing of centerline target extension element 34 by which shot-depth assembly portion 30A, particularly, dome element 32, may be raised or lowered above rim 20) [0076] 49C Bracket extension member (may be adjustable to properly align centerline extension mounting element 49 over center of rim 20 plane circle) [0077] 50 Arc-Angle Assembly Portion [0078] 52 Shot-arc target (plurality of said shot-arc targets set at forty-five degrees (45) in depicted embodiments) [0079] 54 Shot-arc target support member (semi-circular in shape and radially extended from and equal distant at all points from centerline target extension element 34 in depicted embodiments) [0080] 56 Shot-arc target radial support elements (plurality of said elements in depicted embodiment radially extending from center hub 58 and attached to shot-arc target support member 54) [0081] 58 Center hub of arc-angle assembly potion 50 [0082] 59 Attachment support element [0083] 59A Center hub mounting aperture (to securely detachably attach arc-angle assembly potion 50 to centerline target extension element 34) [0084] 59B Knob/screw/securing means (to detachably attach and secure arc-angle assembly potion 50 to centerline target extension element 34)

[0085] The within description and illustrations of various embodiments of the invention are neither intended nor should be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. While particular embodiments of the invention are illustrated and described, singly and in combination, it will be apparent that various modifications and combinations of the invention detailed in the text and drawings can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, references to materials of construction, methods of construction, specific dimensions, shapes, utilities or applications are also not intended to be limiting in any manner and other materials and dimensions could be substituted and remain within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited in any fashion. Rather, particular, detailed and exemplary embodiments are presented.

[0086] The images in the drawings are simplified for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily depicted to scale, although effort has been made to do so. To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals are used, where possible, to designate substantially identical elements that are common to the figures, except that suffixes may be added, when appropriate, to differentiate such elements.

[0087] Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular illustrative and exemplary physical embodiments thereof, as well as a methodology thereof, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. Therefore, numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It has been contemplated that features or steps of one embodiment may be incorporated in other embodiments of the invention without further recitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] A more detailed description of the invention now follows.

[0089] FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view 100 of a presentation or embodiment of the invention comprising a combination of various physical elements, features, portions and embodiments of the device aspects of the invention that promote and reinforce shooting for centerline-straightness, optimum shot-depth and optimum arc-angle, thereby developing target memory for consistent, accurate shootingeven after the targets are removed. FIG. 4 depicts a further perspective view 200 of the presentation of FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 depicts yet another perspective view 300 of the same presentation or embodiment of the invention of FIG. 3 (reference may be required to the additional attached drawings, FIGS. 6-9, for identification and referral of the feature, element or portion described).

[0090] Referring FIG. 3, a shot-depth assembly portion 30A is detachably attached and suspended from a centerline-straightness assembly portion 30B, thereby comprising, in combination, a centerline/shot-depth assembly portion 30. While the shot-depth assembly portion 30A and centerline-straightness assembly portion 30B comprise separate embodiments of the invention, in an embodiment, as disclosed herein, both embodiments are integrated into a combination centerline/shot-depth assembly portion embodiment 30.

[0091] In FIG. 3, the centerline/shot-depth assembly portion 30 is detachably attached to and suspended from a bracket assembly portion 40, wherein the bracket assembly portion 40 is detachably attached to a basketball backboard 10. The centerline-straightness assembly portion 30B is comprised of further elements and features, discussed in greater detail herein, including a centerline target extension element 34, which is aligned with the center of a basketball hoop, defined by the rim 20. Further attached to the centerline target extension element 34 is an arc-angle assembly portion 50. It is understood that the basketball backboard 10 and rim/hoop 20 are not features, elements or limitations of the invention, but comprise a standard, regulation basketball backboard and hoop to which the embodiments comprising the invention are intended for use.

[0092] The illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 3-5 teach consistent, accurate shooting by providing visual and mental aids or targets for the shooter to develop target and muscle-memory and shooting skills consistent with the three (3) shot values of centerline-straightness, optimum shot-depth and optimum arc-angle. In particular, the centerline target extension element 34 (which also provides a means of attachment to other assembly portion embodiments) of the centerline-straightness assembly portion 30B provides a visual centerline target for the value of basketball hoop centerline-straightness and may be brightly colored for easy centerline target acquisition (all elements, features and portions of the various embodiments may be similarly colored, as desired, for target acquisition or other reasons).

[0093] The shot-arc-angle assembly portion 50, and in particular, the at least one shot-arc targets 52 (a plurality in the depicted embodiment) provide a visual target or reference for the value of a 45-degree basketball hoop entry angle, i.e., optimum arc-angle. Lastly, the shot-depth assembly portion 30A, and in particular, the dome element 32 thereof, which is attached to and freely suspended from the centerline target extension element 34, provides a visual target or reference for the value of the 11-inch basketball hoop depth, i.e., optimum shot-depth. The embodiments of the invention depicted in FIGS. 3-5 comprise various physical elements, features, assemblies and portions that help promote and reinforce shooting directed towards the three (3) shot values of centerline-straightness, optimum shot-depth and optimum arc-angle, thereby developing target memory and muscle-memory for consistent, accurate shooting, even after the targets of the embodiments of the invention are removed.

[0094] In practice, a shooter relies upon the three visual references or targets of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3-5 (and as further detailed in FIGS. 6-9) to achieve consistent shooting that comports with the desired shot values. When shooting, the shooter visually engages the centerline target extension element 34 to align the shot with the center of the basketball hoop. That is, the centerline target extension element 34 is the visual representation of the centerline target and presents a strong visual target for the shooter to mentally focus upon. The shooter further visually engages the shot-arc targets 52 for visual and mental reference as to the 45-degree arc-angle at which the center of the ball should enter the plane of the hoop. Through trial and error, i.e., by taking shot after shot (practicing), the shooter will come to appreciate the feel or muscle-memory of shooting a basketball so that it enters the plane of the basket hoop at the optimum arc-angle of about 45 degrees. Lastly, by aiming and shooting the basketball so that it merely touches or grazes the center front dome element rim 32B on the downfall of the shot trajectory as it approaches the hoop plane, the shot is ensured of approaching the desired approximate 11 inch shot-depth value. Through trial and error, and depending on a shooter's style, height and other variables, the height of the dome element 32 may be manually adjusted (raised or lowered) above the rim hoop 20 as desired for personal tweaking. Some shooters may find a preference to aim the basketball so that it merely nicks the center front dome member rim 32B on the downfall of the shot trajectory as it approaches the hoop plane, and therefore a slightly raised dome element 32 will provide an optimum visual aid. Other shooters may prefer to aim the basketball so that it more directly makes more contact with the center front dome member rim 32B on the downfall of the shot trajectory as it approaches the hoop plane, and therefore a slightly lowered dome element 32 will provide an optimum visual aid. With minor tweaking, the shot-depth assembly portion 30A may be fixed at an optimum height for an individual shooter to achieve the shot value of optimum shot-depth.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the centerline target extension element 34 is detachably attached to the bracket assembly portion 40 via a centerline extension mounting element 49 (to detachably attach the centerline target extension element 34 to bracket assembly portion 40). By tightening and loosening a securing means 49A, such as, for example, a threaded bolt with an ergonomically shaped knob or handle for easy gripping by a hand (or any such other means commonly known in the art), the centerline target extension element 34 may be raised or lowered through a receiving mounting aperture 49B in the centerline extension mounting element 49, or removed entirely from the bracket assembly portion 40. This allows height adjustment of the dome element 32 above the rim 20 in accordance with an individual user's preference. In addition, the centerline target extension element 34 may be marked at set distances along its axis for easy readjustment for two (2) or more user or users' preferences (raised or lowered, depending on the user or between two (2) or more users. Such markings may further be numbered so as to represent a measuring stick, such as a standard yardstick, for maximum accuracy.

[0096] The inner diameter of the receiving mounting aperture 49B in the centerline extension mounting element 49 must be sufficiently sized for receipt of the centerline target extension element 34 without being too snug, tight or constricting. This allows easy adjustment (raising and lowering) of the centerline target extension element 34. The inner diameter of aperture 48B should be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the centerline target extension element 34. While the aperture 49 and the cross-section of the centerline target extension element 34 may be of any shapeso long as they can accommodate each othera preferably embodiment is that they are circular in shape.

[0097] The arc-angle assembly portion 50 is also adjustable and may be raised, lowered or removed from the centerline target extension element 34. In the illustrated embodiments, the arc-angle assembly portion 50 comprises an attachment support element 59, which is further comprised of a center hub mounting aperture 59A and a tightening and loosening securing means 58B, such as, for example, a threaded bolt with an ergonomically shaped knob or handle for easy gripping by a hand (or any such other means commonly known in the art). By tightening and loosening the securing means 58B, arc-angle assembly portion 50 may be raised or lowered along the axis of the centerline target extension element 34, or completely removed therefrom. In addition, the inner diameter of the center hub mounting aperture 59A must be sufficiently sized for receipt of the centerline target extension element 34 without being too snug, tight or constricting. This allows easy adjustment (raising and lowering) of the arc-angle assembly portion 50 along the axis of the centerline target extension element 34. The inner diameter of center hub mounting aperture 59A should be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the centerline target extension element 34. While the center hub mounting aperture 59A and the cross-section of the centerline target extension element 34 may be of any shapeso long as they can accommodate each othera preferably embodiment is that they are circular in shape.

[0098] The ability to raise and lower the shot-depth assembly portion 30A and the arc-angle assembly portion 50 is important for setting the optimal height of said potion embodiments above the hoop rim 20 that are best suited for the shooter as discussed above. As a starting reference, an embodiment of the invention comprises that the lower end of dome member 32, defined in the drawings as dome element rim 32B, be set at a height within the range of 10-12 inches above the hoop rim 20 plane, and a preferable starting height of 10.5 inches above the hoop rim 20 plane, and that the shot-arc target assembly portion 50 be set such that lower end of the shot-arc target sites 52 are within a range of 8-10 inches, and preferably 9 inches, above the top of the dome member 32. Such parameters, however, may be adjusted in accordance with a user's preferences that help achieve consistent, accurate shooting for that user.

[0099] FIG. 4A depicts an embodiment of the invention as illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, but without the arc-angle assembly portion 50. It is intended that the arc-angle assembly portion 50, detachably attached to the centerline target extension 34, may be removed in total from the invention, based on a user's preference.

[0100] Referring to more specific aspects of the various embodiments of the invention, as depicted in FIGS. 3-5, and as detailed in FIGS. 6-9, a centerline element 30B is disclosed, which is comprised of the centerline target extension element 34 (described above in relation to the shot-depth assembly portion 30A, the arc-angle assembly portion 50 and the bracket assembly portion 40) having a first terminus 34A and a second terminus 34B. In the depicted embodiments, the first terminus 34A is the lower end of the centerline target extension element 34, to which the shot-depth assembly portion 30A is attached and freely suspended, and the second terminus 34B is the upper end of the centerline target extension element 34. The second upper terminus 34B is detachably attached to the bracket assembly portion 40. In between said two ends 34A, 34B, the arc-angle assembly portion 50 is detachably attached.

[0101] The centerline target extension element 34 is the only embodiment/portion of the invention that connects to or is otherwise detachably attached to the other embodiments or portions of the invention depicted in the drawings, namely, the shot-depth assembly portion 30A, the arc-angle assembly portion 50 and the bracket assembly portion 40. Ideally, the centerline target extension element 34 should be aligned in a near perfect vertical orientation and perpendicular to the floor or basketball court. In an embodiment, the centerline target extension element 34 is cylindrical in shape and comprised of a sturdy, hollow tube (to avoid excess weight as compared with a solid, i.e., non-hollow, element) and may further include various apertures to allow for attachment to the bracket assembly portion 40, the arc-angle assembly portion 50 and the shot-depth assembly portion 30A.

[0102] The shot-depth assembly portion 30A, depicted in greater detail in FIG. 6, is comprised of the dome-shaped feature dome element 32, which is further comprised of and/or defined by a lower dome element rim 32B and a plurality of dome element support ribs/elements 32C. The upper end of the dome element 32 is comprised of an upper dome portion 36 and a dome aperture 36A therein through which a swivel member 32A (such as, for example, a swivel ball comprised of a durable plastic material in an embodiment) connects to the first end 34A of centerline target extension element 34, thereby allowing the dome element 32 to freely swivel. It is important that the shot-depth assembly portion 30A, and in particular, the dome element 32 thereof, be allowed to hang freely when detachably attached to and suspended from the first terminus, lower end 34A of the centerline target extension element 34 so that it does not materially hinder, alter or encumber an incoming basketball shot. Whether hit hard or gracefully grazed by a basketball, the swivel member 32A should be such that the shot-depth assembly portion 30A, and in particular, the dome element 32, readily moves upon impact and returns quickly to its suspended position, ready for the next shot. The swivel member 32A may be detachably attached to the first terminus, lower end 34A of the centerline target extension element 34 (for easy replacement or substitution of alternative models or embodiments of dome member 32) by any number of commonly known means in the art, including a plastic strap element, rope, flexible synthetics, chain (metallic or otherwise), etc. While one form of swivel feature is described, it is understood that a variety of swivel means may be utilized to accomplish the same result.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 3-5 and further detailed in FIG. 6, the circumference of the dome element rim 32B in the depicted embodiments is generally equal to that of the rim 20, and thus, would have a diameter of about 18 inches. However, various dome element 32 sizes may be used and individual shooters may find that a larger or smaller dome element 32 size is preferable. The dome element 32 is further comprised of dome element support ribs/elements 32C that provide support, yet present minimal visual blockage of the backboard and less distraction to a shooter. However, dome element 32 may be comprised without ribs, i.e., a solid piece with no openings, holes or apertures, or with any number or width of rib elements 32C, and further, the rim 32B thereof may be brightly colored for ready target acquisition. In other embodiments, the dome element 32 may comprise a swivel member or means 32A that does require an aperture 36A for suspension from the lower, first terminus end 34A of the centerline target extension 34. In such cases, any common swivel devices may be used, such as, but not limited to, hook and link, hook and chain, chain, and other swivel mounts, fixtures and hardware commonly available. The swivel member or means 32A may be comprised of any suitable material for its intended purpose.

[0104] Similarly, dome element 32 may be comprised of any suitable material for its intended purpose. Preferably, dome element 32 is comprised or manufactured of lightweight, yet durable material, such as, but not limited to, plastics, composites, certain metal alloys, etc. so as to provide minimal influence or impact on incoming shots, and may be produced via various extrusion processes. As the dome element 32 will be hit with basketballs during shooting, it is further important that the dome element 32 be composed of material(s) that may withstand continued impact over periods of time without breaking or cracking. Further, as basketball is often played outdoors, all features and elements of the physical embodiments of the invention should be comprised of materials able to withstand extreme weather conditions and exposure to UV light from the sun without deteriorating, breaking, fading, etc.

[0105] In the depicted embodiments, the bracket assembly portion 40 detachably attaches to both the backboard 10 and the centerline target extension element 34, to which other portions or embodiments of the invention are attached (detachably attached or otherwise). FIGS. 7-9 depict various perspective views of the bracket assembly portion 40 in greater detail. FIG. 7A provides even greater detail. In the illustrated embodiments, the bracket assembly portion 40 detachably attaches to the backboard 10, and, via the centerline target extension element 34, the bracket assembly portion 40 suspends the various other portions and embodiments of the invention above the rim 20. The bracket assembly portion 40 may be comprised of additional elements and features, and in the depicted embodiments of FIGS. 7-9, the following are provided as such additional, exemplary features: at least one (1) bracket backboard attachment top support 46, which hangs over the top of the backboard and extends down the front and the back of the backboard (i.e., in the depicted embodiment, U shaped); at least one (1) bracket backboard attachment brace 44 for detachable attachment to the bracket backboard attachment top support 46; at least one (1) attachment means 47 to detachably attach the bracket backboard attachment brace 44 to the bracket backboard attachment top support 46 and tightly secure to backboard 10 (said attachment means including, for example, a threaded bolt with an ergonomically shaped knob or handle for easy gripping by a hand, which may be used with corresponding and properly aligned threaded receptacle apertures in the bracket backboard attachment top support 46 and bracket backboard attachment brace 44 for receiving the threaded bolt for tightening and loosening, as desired by a user (or any such other means commonly known in the art)); at least one (1) bracket extender 42 element (to extend and align centerline target extension element 34 and secure same at a predetermined distance from the backboard 10); at least one (1) bracket backboard back support brace 48 for further support of the bracket assembly portion 40 against the backboard 10; at least one (1) centerline extension mounting element 49 for detachable attachment of the centerline target extension element 34 to the bracket assembly portion 40; a receiving mounting aperture 49B in the centerline extension mounting element 49 (through which the centerline target extension element 34 extends for detachable attachment and securing of the centerline target extension element 34 and for adjustment (raise/lower height) of shot-depth assembly portion 30A, and in particular, dome element 32, above hoop rim 20; at least one (1) securing means 49A to detachably attach and secure the centerline target extension element 34 to the bracket mounting element 49 (said attachment means including, for example, a threaded bolt with an ergonomically shaped knob or handle for easy gripping by a hand, which may be used with corresponding and properly aligned threaded receptacle apertures/holes in the centerline extension mounting element 49 for receiving the threaded bolt for tightening, loosening and adjusting the centerline target extension element 34 as desired by a user (or any such other securing means commonly known in the art or suitable for such intended purpose)); and, in the depicted embodiments, a bracket extension element 49C, which may be adjustable to properly align the centerline extension mounting element 49 over the center of the rim 20 plane circle and any required means for properly securing if adjustable, said securing means including, but not limited to, screws, nuts and bolts, or any other securing means commonly known to those skilled in the art. It should be understood that the bracket assembly portion described herein and depicted in the drawings is an exemplary, illustration of detachably attaching the centerline element 30B and the shot-depth assembly portion 30A of the centerline/shot-depth assembly portion 30 and the arc-angle assembly portion 50 to a backboard 10. While the illustrated bracket assembly portion 40 is utilized with depicted embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that there may be many variations or other methods of detachably attaching the centerline element 30B and the shot-depth assembly portion 30A of the centerline/shot-depth assembly portion 30 and the arc-angle assembly portion to a backboard 10 and the bracket assembly portion 40, as depicted, is not necessarily a limiting feature of the invention. Indeed, the centerline element 30B may extend vertically and attach directly to a ceiling or other high enough structure and not attach to the backboard 10 at all, yet serve identical utility and functionality as if attached directly to the backboard 10complete with the shot-depth assembly portion 30A and the arc-angle assembly portion 50 attached thereto.

[0106] The bracket assembly 40 may be detachably attached to the backboard 10 via combined single-piece bracket backboard attachment brace 44 and bracket backboard attachment top support 46, as demonstrated in FIGS. 4, 5 7-9 or by way of separate, two-piece combined bracket backboard attachment brace 44 and bracket backboard attachment top support 46, as demonstrated in FIG. 7A. The two-piece combination of FIG. 7A may be preferred to avoid digging or marking of the backboard 10 by the securing knob 47.

[0107] The bracket assembly portion 40 and the centerline target extension element 34, including all subparts, features and elements thereof, are comprised of strong, sturdy materials with minimal flexibility, such as metals, alloys, composites, plastics, resins and other like materials. By way of example, but without limitation, aluminum and various aluminum alloys, which generally are lightweight, durable and sturdy would be ideal, and may be produced by various and commonly known casting or extrusion processes. Such aluminum alloys may include, for example, aluminum alloys having metallic elements corresponding to the alloy series designations published by The Aluminum Association commencing with the numbers 3, 5, 6 and 7 (or proprietary equivalents or other certifying body equivalents).

[0108] In addition to the bracket assembly portion 40, other portions and elements of the embodiments of the invention described herein and depicted in the drawings may also be comprised of such as metals, alloys, composites, plastics, resins and other like materials. By way of example, but without limitation, aluminum and various aluminum alloys, which generally are lightweight, durable and sturdy would be ideal, and may be produced by casting or extrusion processes. Such aluminum alloys may include, for example, aluminum alloys having metallic elements corresponding to the alloy series designations published by The Aluminum Association commencing with the numbers 3, 5, 6 and 7 (or proprietary equivalents or other certifying body equivalents).

[0109] If comprised of aluminum alloy materials and created or manufactured via extrusion processes, such elements and features comprising the various portions and embodiments of the invention may be produced with a variety of finishes (both coatings and surface treatments). The types of coatings and treatments applied to subject aluminum extrusions include, but are not limited to, extrusions that are mill finished (i.e., without any coating or further finishing), brushed, buffed, polished, anodized (including bright dip anodized), liquid painted, or powder coated. After completing the extrusion process, such elements, features and portions of the various embodiments and assembly portions may further undergo operations to further complete the process, such as (but not limited to), cut-to-length, machined, drilled, punched, notched, bent, stretched, knurled, swedged, mitered, chamfered, threaded, and spun. This may be done prior to or after final finishing or painting.

[0110] Also, as these features of the invention will be struck by basketballs during shooting, it is further important that such elements and features be manufactured from or otherwise comprised of material(s) that may withstand continued impact over periods of time without breaking, cracking or other unwanted wear. Further, as basketball is often played outdoors, all features and elements of the physical embodiments of the invention should be comprised of materials able to withstand extreme weather conditions and exposure to UV light from the sun without deteriorating, breaking, fading, etc.

[0111] Importantly, it is to be expressly understood that, unless so stated, there are no dimensional limitations on the various features, elements or limitations of the various embodiments, portions or assemblies disclosed herein. For example, centerline target extension element 34 may be of length and thickness as required by the materials used for its construction and as suitable for its intended purpose. As such, if comprised of a metal alloy, such as a durable, sturdy and lightweight aluminum alloy, a diameter thickness of between 1-2 inches will likely be sufficient and preferable. Such a limitation, however, may be different if the element 34 is comprised of a different material. In addition, while there is specific limitation on the length of element 34, it would make little sense for the length to exceed the overall height of the backboard 10. As such, a preferable maximum length would be 42 inchesthe dimensional height of a regulation backboard.

[0112] In the various embodiments of the invention as depicted in the drawings, the arc-angle assembly portion 50 is comprised of the following features or elements: an attachment support element 59 and a center hub 58 that further comprise a center hub mounting aperture 59A to securely detachably attach the arc-angle assembly portion 50 to the centerline target extension element 34 and to allow adjustment (raise/lower height) of the arc-angle assembly portion 50 along the axis of the centerline target extension element 34; a securing means 59B to detachably attach and rightly secure the arc-angle assembly portion 50 to the centerline target extension element 34 (said attachment means including, for example, a threaded bolt with an ergonomically shaped knob or handle for easy gripping by a hand, which may be used with a corresponding and properly aligned threaded receptacle aperture in the center hub mounting aperture for receiving the threaded bolt for tightening and loosening, as desired by a user (or any such other means commonly known in the art)); at least one (1) shot-arc target site radial support element(s) 56 (a plurality of said elements is illustrated in the depicted embodiment as radially extending from center hub 58 and attached to the shot-arc target support member 54); a shot-arc target site support member 54 (in the depicted embodiment, shown as a semi-circle shaped feature that is radially extended from and equal distant at all points from the centerline target extension element 34); and at least one (1) shot-arc target site(s) 52 (a plurality of said shot-arc target sites are shown in the depicted embodiment and are positioned at a forty-five degree (45) angle with respect to the basketball rim 20 plane, in accordance with the method described above).

[0113] In the various embodiments of the arc-angle assembly portion 50 of the invention depicted in the drawings, a plurality of shot-arc target site radial support elements 56 and shot-arc target sites 52 are demonstrated. Specifically, in the disclosed embodiments the arc-angle assembly portion 50 comprises five (5) shot-arc target sites 52. Two shot-arc target sites 52 extend from the attachment support element 59, which runs parallel to the backboard 10. As such, the two shot-arc target sites 52 extending therefrom are also parallel to the backboard 10. The remaining three (3) shot-arc target sites 52 connect to and extend from three (3) radial support elements 56; the center or middle shot-arc target site 52 extends from a radial support element 56 that is perpendicular to the attachment support element 59 and the backboard 10; as such, the center shot-arc target site 52 is also perpendicular to attachment support element 59 and the backboard 10 and is oriented at a ninety (90) degree angle to both. The two (2) shot-arc target sites 52 on both sides of the center shot-arc target site 52 (i.e., each is between center shot-arc target site 52 and the two shot-arc target sites 52 extending from the attachment support element 59) or oriented at forty-five (45) degree angles with respect to attachment support element 59 and the backboard 10 (and thus, the radial support elements 56 to which they attach are also oriented at forty-five (45) degree angles with respect to attachment support element 59 and the backboard 10).

[0114] While the arc-angle assembly portion 50 may comprise any number of shot-arc target sites 52, five (5) is a preferable. Five (5) shot-arc target sites 52 provides adequate visual coverage for a userfrom baseline, to straight forward and in betweento acquire target recognition of the optimum arc-angle.

[0115] Referring to the illustrations, the center hub mounting aperture 59A allows attachment of the arc-angle assembly portion 50 to the centerline target extension element 34. The centerline target extension element 34 extends through said mounting aperture and the securing means 59B and complimentary/associated threaded hole or aperture (not shown) is used to securely tighten the arc-angle assembly portion 50 to the centerline target extension element 34. Of course, other commonly known means may be used to detachably attach, secure and adjust the arc-angle assembly portion 50 to the centerline target extension element 34.

[0116] The arc-angle assembly portion 50, including all subparts, features and elements thereof, are ideally comprised of strong and moderately inflexible materials, such as metals, alloys, plastics, composites, fiberglass, rubbers, and other like materials that can withstand impact, yet provide sufficient flexibility and give to soften an errant basketball shot. As these features of the invention will be struck by basketballs during shooting, it is further important that such elements and features be composed of material(s) that may withstand continued impact over periods of time without breaking, cracking or other unwanted wear. Further, as basketball is often played outdoors, all features and elements of the physical embodiments of the invention should be comprised of materials able to withstand extreme weather conditions and exposure to UV light from the sun without deteriorating, breaking, fading, etc.

[0117] As with other features, elements and limitations of the various embodiments, portions or assemblies of the invention, it is to be expressly understood that, unless so stated, there are no dimensional limitations on the various features, elements or limitations that comprise the arc-angle assembly portion 50. Preferably, however, the radius of the shot-arc target site support member 54 (in the depicted embodiment, shown as a semi-circle shaped feature that is radially extended from and equal distant at all points from the centerline target extension element 34) is nine (9) inches, with the center hub 58 of the assembly 50 being positioned directly over the center point of the hoop 20 plane. As such, the lower base of the assembly 50, being defined by the outer semi-circle perimeter of the shot-arc target site support member 54 and the attachment support element 59, is the approximate size of half of the hoop 20 plane and positioned approximately directly over the front half of the hoop 20 plane. A preferable length of the of shot-arc target sites 52 is that they not exceed or be greater than the top of the backboard 10. Generally, an approximate length of eighteen (18) inches for the shot-arc target sites 52 would suffice and it may be preferable that they be brightly colored for ready target acquisition. The thickness of the shot-arc target sites 52 depends on the material used for composition. Generally, it may be preferred that the shot-arc target sites 52 be cylindrical or rod-like in shape with a thickness or diameter of approximately one (1) inch to avoid over obtrusiveness. As noted, the shot-arc target sites 52 must be comprised of a durable, flexible material that can withstand weeks, months and years of basketball abuse.

[0118] Importantly, use of the devices of the embodiments of the invention teach, develop and reinforce target memory and muscle-memory for consistent, accurate shooting by a shooter. With practice with the embodiments, and, preferably, with knowledge of the shooting method, a shooter's shooting accuracy improves and becomes more consistenteven after the devices of the physical embodiments of the invention are removed, such as, for example, when the practicing shooter plays in a basketball game. With knowledge of the shooting method, and by practicing with the physical embodiments of the invention, an individual may quickly become a stellar, bulls-eye basketball shooter.

[0119] This disclosure of the various embodiments of the invention, with accompanying drawings, is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. The images in the drawings are simplified for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily depicted to scale. To facilitate understanding, identical reference terms are used, where possible, to designate substantially identical elements that are common to the figures, except that suffixes may be added, when appropriate, to differentiate such elements.

[0120] Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular illustrative embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. Therefore, numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It has been contemplated that features or steps of one embodiment may be incorporated in other embodiments of the invention without further recitation.