Spalding is a large sports equipment manufacturer which produces the official basketball of the NBA and WNBA, as well as the official backboard of the NBA and NCAA. Spalding also manufactures residential and institutional basketball goal systems. The specifications are different depending on the type and style of the product.
Residential Goals
Spalding's residential goal systems have 4-inch by 5-inch brackets that attach the goal to the backboard. The goal pole is square. Most are one piece poles, although the Performance series has a 3-piece pole model. The pole is either a 4-inch square, 5-inch square, 6-inch square or 8-inch square. The poles are made of 3/16-inch steel. Most models have an adjustable goal height between seven and 10 feet, although a few models have a fixed, 10-foot height.
Residential Backboards
Spalding residential backboards are available in two styles: aluminum-framed or steel-framed. Aluminum-framed backboards are 54 inches wide and 32 inches tall or 60 inches wide by 34 inches tall. Steel-framed backboards come in four sizes: 54 inches by 36 inches, 60 inches by 38 inches, 60 inches by 42 inches or 72 inches by 42 inches, which is the NBA official backboard size. The backboard plate is either an acrylic sheet or tempered glass, and depending on the model, either 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch thick.
Institutional Goals
Spalding produces both fixed and breakaway goals for institutions. Fixed goals are typically used on playgrounds and other unofficial courts. College and professional basketball organizations use breakaway goals. These goals have springs that allow the rim to flex and give a little. The rims are orange with white nets. The inside diameter of the rim is 18 inches, which is the official size for the NBA and NCAA.
Institutional Backboards
Spalding makes both glass and non-glass backboards. The glass backboards are made of 1/2-inch tempered glass; Non-glass backboards are made of steel, fiberglass or a synthetic material. Spalding specifies whether each backboard meets the size specifications of the NBA or the NCAA. The NBA regulation backboards are 72 inches wide by 42 inches tall, while NCAA regulation backboards are either 72 inches by 42 inches or 72 inches by 48 inches. Spalding also makes a practice backboard that is 54 inches wide by 42 inches tall.
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