How to Weigh Down a Portable Basketball

Portable basketball hoops allow you to move them from location to location. This can be an attractive function if you do not wish to permanently place a basketball hoop pole in your yard or driveway. When setting up a portable basketball hoop, you must make sure it is properly weighed down so that it does not move during game play or fall over in high winds. If the portable basketball hoop is not properly weighed down, it can become a dangerous hazard.

Things You'll Need

  • Sand (amount per instructions of your hoop, 200 to 400 pounds)
  • Funnel
  • Small shovel (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stand the base of the hoop up so it is almost vertical, with the front of base toward the ground. The wheels on the front of the portable basketball hoop will allow you to roll it up. You may also rest the pole for the hoop on the grass, a wheelbarrow or sawhorse if it is more convenient.

    • 2

      Open the fill hole and insert the funnel. Use a wide-mouth funnel so that the sand travels quickly into the base.

    • 3

      Pour sand through the funnel and into the base. If you are using light bags of sand (say 10 or 20 pounds) you might be able to hold and pour at the same time. If you are using heavier bags, get someone to assist you, or use a small shovel to place sand into the funnel continuously.

    • 4

      Fill the base until you reach the standing fill line. You will be able to fill most of the base in this vertical position. When you reach the fill line (as per your instructions) it is time to return the base to the standing position.

    • 5

      Fill the base with the remaining sand. When the base rests horizontally again, there will some settling. Continue pouring sand through the funnel until it is completely full.

    • 6

      Screw on or attach the cap to the base. Discard any empty sand bags.