PATENT DOCUMENT

Abstract:
A portable basketball goal system having an adjustable wheel assembly is disclosed. The portable basketball goal system may comprise a rigid pole, a support base, an adjustable wheel assembly, and an engaging member. The support base is configured to maintain the rigid pole in a generally elevated position. The adjustable wheel assembly is connected to the support base and has an engaged and disengaged position. In the engaged position, the wheel assembly supportably engages a playing surface. In the disengaged position, the wheel assembly may not supportably engage the playing surface. The adjustable wheel assembly may be slidably coupled to the support base. The adjustable wheel assembly may be operated by an engaging member coupled to a cam surface. The cam surface may interact with a follower to transition the adjustable wheel assembly between the supportable and unsupportable engagements.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/989,008, filed on Nov. 15, 2004, entitled PORTABLE BASKETBALL SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,867; which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/212,443, filed on Aug. 5, 2002, entitled PORTABLE BASKETBALL GOAL SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,916,257; which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/638,529, filed on Aug. 14, 2000, entitled ADJUSTABLE WHEEL ENGAGEMENT ASSEMBLY FOR BASKETBALL GOAL SYSTEMS, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,003; which is a continuation-in-part of patent application Ser. No. 09/249,275, filed on Feb. 11, 1999, entitled PORTABLE BASKETBALL GOAL SYSTEM HAVING TWO-PART BASE SUPPORT ASSEMBLY, now abandoned, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to basketball goal assemblies and, more particularly, to novel adjustable wheel engagement assemblies for basketball goal systems employing a unique structural design that facilitates selective movement of the basketball goal system in relation to a playing surface. 
     2. The Relevant Technology 
     As the game of basketball has increased in popularity a greater number of people have purchased basketball goals for use at their homes. Typically, home basketball goals are permanently mounted in a manner such that the driveway of the home serves as a playable basketball court, as few homes have sufficient land surrounding the home to dedicate space for exclusive use as a basketball court. In some instances, deciding where to position or mount a basketball goal can pose some playing difficulties. For example, mounting a basketball goal adjacent to the driveway of a home may precipitate a risk to any traffic in the driveway, resulting in potential injury to the players or damage to parked or moving automobiles. 
     In some cases, the perfect location for mounting a basketball goal is the place where permanently mounting the basketball goal cannot be easily accomplished. Such a location may be where there is concrete or asphalt on the ground. To permanently mount the basketball goal assembly would therefore require breaking up the concrete or asphalt and then repairing the receiving hole after inserting an end of a support pole into the ground. Such a procedure could be relatively expensive and would most likely leave the driveway appearing unsightly at least during the period of construction and repair. 
     Other disadvantages are also associated with permanently installed basketball goal assemblies. Since basketball goal assemblies are generally mounted to a surface outdoors, they are generally exposed to the harsh elements of the weather throughout the entire year. As appreciated, constant exposure to the elements of the weather (e.g., rain, snow, sleet, high temperatures) will typically cause the component parts of the basketball goal assembly to prematurely wear by promoting oxidation. Premature oxidation can be particularly troublesome in basketball goal assemblies having any moving parts, such as height adjustment mechanisms or breakaway rim assemblies. Moreover, consistent exposure to the elements of the weather may cause premature failure of such mechanisms. 
     Mounted basketball goal assemblies that are utilized in an indoor environment may suffer from similar disadvantages associated with permanent placement. For example, schools typically have a gymnasium which generally serves many functional purposes. Having several basketball goals permanently mounted for use in the gymnasium may preclude, or at least interfere, with certain other activities. On formal occasions, objection may be made to the appearance of one or more permanently mounted basketball goals. 
     In response to these and other disadvantages inherent in basketball goal assemblies that are permanently mounted to a surface, those skilled in the art began developing portable basketball assemblies. In order for a portable basketball goal assembly to be effective, sufficient weight must be employed to maintain the basketball goal in a generally rigid, upright position for use when playing the game of basketball or shooting baskets. Hence, portable basketball goal assemblies were developed utilizing a great deal of weight at the base, thereby making the goal assembly particularly difficult to move and typically requiring the assistance of several people to set up or relocate the basketball goal. Additionally, such designs can be prohibitively expensive for people desiring to purchase one for home use. 
     Other prior art portable basketball goal assemblies were developed which incorporate removable weights such as, for example, sand bags or metal weights, that are generally disposed in relation to the support structure. A principal disadvantage in using these types of removable weights is that they can be extremely heavy, difficult to lift and arrange. Accordingly, although the basketball goal assemblies employing such designs may be easier to move in relation to permanently mounted goal assemblies, the weights or weighted members are not. 
     In an attempt to make portable basketball goal assemblies that are better suited for home use, support bases were developed having a hollow cavity sufficient for receiving a ballast material. The ballast material introduced into the cavity of the support base may include water, sand or other suitable material. Such portable basketball goal assemblies can be more easily moved to a desired location where the support base is then filled with the ballast material, thereby providing sufficient weight to maintain the goal in a generally rigid, upright position for game play. A principal advantage of using a support base fillable with a ballast material is that water, sand or other fillable materials are usually inexpensive and convenient to use. When it is desired to move these prior art portable basketball goal assemblies, the ballast material is generally emptied out of the internal cavity in the support base and then the basketball goal assembly is moved. However, having to fill and empty the goal each time the goal is to be set up or moved requires time and is inherently inconvenient. 
     To assist in moving prior art basketball goal assemblies, one or more wheels were incorporated into support bases to facilitate movement of the basketball goal assembly. For example, one such wheeled support base design is disclosed wherein the support base generally engages the ground and rests on one or more base wheels. Movement is achieved by lifting and tilting the support base generally on an end until substantially the weight of the base rests on the wheels. Thus, the base wheels serve as a rotating fulcrum upon which the effective weight of the basketball goal assembly may be supported such that the basketball goal assembly then is maneuverable in this position from place to place. 
     A disadvantage to prior art base support wheel assemblies is that pivoting a heavy base to facilitate its relocation can be difficult for some people and especially for children to move. Specifically, attempting to pivot a heavy support base may present dangers associated with having the entire basketball goal assembly dropped on one or more persons or children. This is especially true when someone without sufficient physical strength attempts to pivot or move a heavy support base. Whereas, a sudden release of the heavy base can cause bodily injury or damage to the base or those in its vicinity. 
     In addition, many portable basketball goal assemblies do not fully engage the playing surface when positioned for game play. This is particularly problematic for basketball goal assemblies that incorporate wheels in the support base. For example, a portion of the base must be lifted off the playing surface to keep the basketball goal assembly from resting on the wheels and being somewhat moveable under little force. As a result, there is less friction between the support base and the playing surface, therefore the support base is liable to move during play, especially during slam dunks and other maneuvers that place a substantial lateral force on the basketball goal assembly. 
     Another disadvantage with prior art portable basketball goal assemblies is that many are formed having the support pole positioned only a few inches from the inner edge of the base. As a result, the moveable support base extends outwardly and underneath the basketball net. This makes it difficult to execute game play strategies in which a player is positioned behind or beneath the basketball net because the support base extends into this area of game play, and may even cause a player to stumble. 
     Moreover, many prior art portable basketball goal assemblies do not permit lateral (sideways) motion of the front portion of the support base. Thus, anyone attempting to move the heavy support base and attached pole and basketball goal support must intuitively push the assembly backward to move it or, alternatively, swing the rear portion of the support base around in an effort to orient the base before attempting to move the basketball goal assembly. This can be particularly troublesome when the basketball goal assembly is to be stored in a narrow enclosure; there may not be sufficient room to pivot the support base in order to remove the basketball goal assembly from the enclosure. As appreciated, small adjustments in the positioning of these type of prior art basketball goal assemblies for game play are generally more difficult if the front portion of the assembly, which supports the basketball goal, does not the capacity to be moved laterally. 
     Furthermore, many prior art portable basketball goal assemblies cannot be manipulated from a stationary configuration to a mobile configuration without changing the position of the device (i.e., forceably tilting the support base). This makes minor repositioning even more difficult, as a user must attempt to move the support base and then try to guess where the base will end up after the basketball goal assembly is returned to a stationary configuration. A user may thus find it exceptionally difficult to move these prior art basketball goal assemblies only an inch or two. 
     As noted above, some of the prior art designs of portable basketball goal assemblies also have a number of other problems. For example, some have portions that protrude from the support base and thereby create a playing hazard. Others have moving parts that may pinch body parts as they fold or collapse together. Many prior art designs of portable basketball goal assemblies are also overly expensive and difficult to assemble because they require the use of special fixtures such as bearings, collars, and the like to retain metal parts such as wheels, posts, and sliding members in engagement with the support base. 
     Consistent with the foregoing, it would be an advancement in the art to provide an improved support base for portable basketball goal assemblies that can be easily moved by one person without having to pivot a significant portion of the weight of the support base in order to facilitate movement. It would be a further advancement in the art to provide a novel support base and wheel system for basketball goal assemblies that can be readily adapted into a playing position, thereby being resistant to movement during game play. 
     Yet further, it would be an advancement in the art to provide a portable basketball goal system that is readily movable, as described above, in which substantially the entire underside of the base rests upon the playing surface during game play, so as to impart additional stability and resistance to forces acting on the basketball goal assembly which may tend to move the assembly when configured in the playing position. A still further advancement over the prior art devices would provided by such a basketball goal system wherein the support base does not extend underneath the basketball net, thus impeding net play or causing potential injury to one or more players. 
     It would be a further advancement in the art to provide a portable basketball goal assembly having a front portion that could be easily moved in a lateral direction. Furthermore, an advancement would be provided by a portable basketball goal assembly that could be made mobile without having to significantly shift the weight of the assembly for movement, so that minor positioning adjustments may easily be made. Further advancements in the art may stem from providing a support base that is substantially free from protruding objects or members that may impede normal use or game play, and substantially free from folding or compressing areas accessible to a user. Still further advancements in the art would be to provide a basketball goal assembly in which comparatively few fixtures are required to retain moving or assembled parts within the support base. 
     Such a device is disclosed and claimed herein. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a basketball goal system employing a novel adjustable wheel engagement assembly that facilitates movement of the basketball goal system relative to a playing surface. One presently preferred embodiment of the novel basketball goal system of the present invention comprises a rigid support pole having a first end configured to supportably engage a basketball goal above a playing surface and a second opposing end adapted to engage a movable support base. The support base may include a receiving aperture formed in a first portion of the support base, wherein the receiving aperture is adapted to receive and maintain the second end of the support pole in either a fixed or pivotal relationship thereto. The support base further includes sufficient weight appropriately disposed along its dimensional length and width so as to support the rigid support pole and the basketball goal in a general upright position over a playing surface for game play. 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, an adjustable wheel assembly is operably disposed proximate the front portion of the support base having the receiving aperture for receiving the support pole. Preferably, the adjustable wheel assembly comprises a caster rotatably disposed in relation to a support assembly. As will be appreciated, one or more rollers may be supportably disposed in relation to the support base between the front portion and the back portion of the base, if desired. In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable wheel assembly and one or more rollers, in combination, may provide sufficient support to the base to allow for selective maneuvering of the basketball goal system to various locations for either game play or storage. 
     An engaging member, moveable between an extended position and a retracted position, is disposed in operable engagement to the support pole. In one presently preferred embodiment, the engaging member comprises a proximal end pivotally connected to the second end of the support pole contiguous the front portion of the base and proximate the receiving aperture that receives the support pole. The engaging member further comprising a distal end configured to engageably receive a hand of a user (e.g., forming a handle). Preferably, the engaging member is pivotally engages the support pole such that the engaging member may be selectively pivoted between an extended position wherein the distal end of the engaging member extends substantially outward and at an angle relative to the generally upright disposition of the support pole and a retracted position wherein the distal end of the engaging member extends substantially parallel to the disposition of the support pole positioned for game play. 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the adjustable wheel assembly may comprise a caster mounted on a slider that selectively extends outward from a hollow channel formed at the second end of the support pole. The distal end of the engaging member may include a cam adjustment surface designed to rest upon a follower that is attached to the slider. In operation, the rotational positioning of the cam adjustment surface, when selectively pivoting the engaging member between the retracted position and the extended position, subsequently controls the vertical position of the follower, and therefore that of the slider. 
     As noted above, in the retracted position, the engaging member is generally disposed substantially upward and parallel to the disposition of the support pole. In operation, the cam adjustment surface of the engaging member may be pivoted in such a way that the follower remains in an upward position. Consequently, the slider of the adjustable wheel assembly may be retained within the internal periphery of the hollow chamber of the support pole, and the caster may therefore be retracted such that the weight of the basketball goal system does not rest upon the adjustable wheel assembly, but rather on the contacting surface of the base support to prevent movement of the basketball goal system. Although one or more rollers may remain in constant contact with the playing surface, the rollers alone are ineffective to allow movement of the support base from one location to another when the engaging member is selectively positioned in the retracted position. Significant movement of the basketball goal system is thus prevented during game play when the engaging member is disposed in the retracted position and the caster is selectively retracted from supporting engagement with the playing surface. 
     In the extended position, the engaging member extends substantially outward and at an angle relative to the generally upright disposition of the support pole for game play. In operation, the cam adjustment surface of the engaging member may be rotated to a position in which the follower is forced generally downward in relation to the support base. Consequently, the slider generally slides outward from within the hollow channel at the second end of the support pole and, as the caster supportably engages the playing surface, the front portion of the support base is subsequently lifted off the playing surface so that the weight of the front portion of the support base supportably rests upon the caster of the adjustable wheel assembly. As noted above, the distal end of the engaging member may then used as a handle or lever for gripping in order to facilitate maneuvering of the support base and, accordingly, the basketball goal system from one location to another for game play or storage. 
     Thus, it is an object of the present invention to provide a novel adjustable wheel assembly for a basketball goal system having an engaging member adapted to be selectively positionable between a retracted position such that the support base is restricted from significant movement in relation to the playing surface and an extended position which facilitates controlled movement of the support base and, correspondingly, the basketball goal system from one location to another. 
     It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a support base for a basketball goal assembly that may be moved from one location to another without having to physically lift or tilt the support base from its substantially horizontal position relative to the playing surface. 
     It is a further object of the present invention to provide a basketball goal system having an engaging member comprising a distal end that serves as a handle or lever for gripping by a user when attempting to manually maneuver the basketball goal system from one position to another. 
     It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a novel adjustable wheel assembly for basketball goal systems that maintains a substantial frictional area between the support base and the playing surface for stable game play when the engaging member is disposed in a retracted position and, correspondingly, a significant portion of the length of the slider is selectively disposed in the hollow channel formed in the second end of the support pole. 
     Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a support base for a basketball goal system that remains substantially displaced from beneath a basketball net to make net play safer and easier. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide a support base for a basketball goal system, wherein a front portion of the support base can be moved in a lateral direction by means of displacing the engaging member in an extended position, thus disposing the caster of the adjustable wheel assembly in supportable relation to the playing surface so as to facilitate easy maneuvering of the basketball goal assembly from one location to another. 
     These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one presently preferred embodiment of a basketball goal system in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a side view of the embodiment of the basketball goal system of  FIG. 1  illustrating a support pole, a support base, and an extending member, wherein the basketball goal system is disposed in a stationary configuration for game play; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the embodiment of the basketball goal system of  FIG. 1  illustrating an engaging member disposed in an extended position and an adjustable wheel assembly supportably engaging the playing surface, wherein facilitating selective movement of the basketball goal system from one location to another; 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded, cross-sectional, side view of a front portion of the support base illustrating the pivotal relationship of the extending member and the adjustable wheel assembly of the embodiment of the basketball goal system of  FIG. 1 , wherein a contacting surface of the support base remains in frictional contact with the playing surface to prevent movement of the basketball goal system; 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded, cross-sectional, side view of the front portion of the support base illustrating the structural relationship between the cam surface of the engaging member and the follower attached to the slider of the adjustable wheel assembly of the embodiment of the basketball goal system of  FIG. 1 , wherein the slider slidably extends outwardly from its telescopic engagement with the second end of the support pole and thereby positions the caster in supportable relation to the playing surface so as to lift a portion of the contacting surface of the support base from its frictional engagement with the playing surface so as to allow for easy transportation of the basketball goal system from one location to another; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the basketball goal system, illustrating the engaging member disposed in a playing position; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 6  with the engaging member disposed in an extended position; 
         FIG. 8  is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 6  showing the engaging member secured in the playing position; 
         FIG. 9 , is a perspective view of another embodiment of the support base of the basketball goal system; 
         FIG. 10  is a bottom plan view of the support base of the basketball goal system; 
         FIG. 11A  is a side view of another embodiment of the basketball goal system with the engaging member disposed in the playing position; 
         FIG. 11B  is a side view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11A  with the engaging member disposed in the extended position; and 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the basketball goal assembly illustrating the engaging member in the extended position for storage. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the system and method of the present invention, as represented in  FIGS. 1 through 5 , is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but it is merely representative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention. 
     The presently preferred embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. 
     One presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, designated generally at  10 , is best illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . As shown, the basketball goal system  10  comprises a rigid support pole  14  having a first end  13  configured to supportably engage a basketball goal assembly  30  above a playing surface  26  and a second opposing end  13  adapted to mountably engage a support base  12 . Structurally, the support base  12  includes a receiving aperture  28  formed in a front portion  36  of the support base  12 , wherein the receiving aperture  28  is adapted to receive and maintain the opposing second end  13  of the support pole  14  in either a fixed or pivotal relationship to the base  12 . The support base  12  preferably comprises sufficient weight so as to support the pole  14  and the basketball goal assembly  30  in a general upright position over a playing surface  26 . In addition, one or more brace supports  15  may have opposing ends adapted to provide a structural connection between the support base  12  and the pole  14  so as to assist in providing structural support to retain the support pole  14  and the attached basketball goal assembly  30  in a generally upright configuration for game play. 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the basketball goal assembly  30  may include a backboard  16 , a rim  18 , a net  20 , and upper and/or lower engagement arms  19   a ,  19   b  pivotally connected between the basketball backboard  16  and the first end  11  of the support pole  14 . As contemplated herein, an adjustment assembly (not shown) may be operably disposed in relation to the upper and/or lower engagement arms  19   a ,  19   b  of the basketball goal assembly  30  such that selective manipulation of the adjustment assembly results in a corresponding adjustment in the height of the basketball goal assembly  30  above the playing surface  26 . 
     The support base  12  of the present invention is preferably formed of a substantially sturdy, rigid material. For example, the support base  12  may be formed of a polymeric material such as, for example, a low-density linear polyethylene. It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that a wide variety of other suitable materials such as wood, fiberglass, ceramic, any of numerous organic, synthetic or processed materials which are mostly thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers of high molecular weight, and/or other composite or polymeric materials are possible which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     The support pole  14  is preferably constructed of a rigid material having comparatively high resistance to impact and yielding. Although certain plastics and polymers may be used, the support pole  14  of one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention is formed of metal, such as steel or aluminum, or of a sufficiently sturdy composite material. It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that the support pole  14  of the present invention may comprise two or more sectional members that can be assembled together to form a single support pole having sufficient structural integrity so as to support a goal support assembly  30  above a playing surface  26 . For example, the support pole  14  may include two or more sectional members that telescopically engage each other to provide a single support pole  14 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , in one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support base  12  is formed having a cavity  60  having an internal periphery sufficient for receiving a ballast material such as, for example, water, sand, or the like. In operation, the ballast material provides sufficient weight and adequate support to retain the support pole  14  and the basketball goal assembly  30  in a general upright position during rigorous game play. In such an embodiment, the support base  12  may be configured with an opening (not shown) formed in the upper surface  40  of the support base  12  such that when the base  12  is filled, for example, with water to the point that the water level in the support base  12  reaches the opening, a void remains within the upper portion of the cavity  60  which does not fill with water. This is to allow for expansion of the water in the case of freezing temperatures. 
     In operation, after introducing the ballast material into the internal periphery of the cavity  60  of the support base  12 , a closure or cap (not shown) may be secured in the face of the opening to prevent the displacement of the ballast material from the cavity  60  of the support base  12 . As will be appreciated, the support base  12  may not include a cavity  60  for introducing a ballast material, but rather comprise sufficient weight, in and of itself, to ensure the stability of the basketball goal system  10  when the support pole  14  and the attached basketball goal assembly  30  are disposed generally upward from the playing surface  26  for game play. 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , in one presently preferred embodiment, the support base  12  comprises a front portion  36 , a rear portion  38 , an upper surface  40 , and a contacting surface  42 . The receiving aperture  28  of the support base  12 , which receives and maintains the second end  13  of the support pole  14  in fixed or pivotal relation thereto, is preferably formed within the front portion  36  of the support base  12 . The engagement between the support pole  14  and the receiving aperture  28  of the support base  12  may include a cross-brace member  66  (e.g., a linear shaft or axle) having a proximate end, a distal end, and an intermediate body portion formed between the proximate and distal ends thereof. In this regard, the proximate end of the cross-brace member  66  may be engageably disposed in relation to the support base  12  and the distal end of the cross-brace member  66  engageably disposed in relation to the support pole  14 . 
     In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, a first and second cross-brace member  66  are formed on opposite sides of the support pole  14 , thus engaging opposite sides of the receiving aperture  28  of the support base  12 , as best shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 . It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other mechanisms may be constructed in accordance with the inventive principles set forth herein so as to facilitate a fixed or pivotal connection between the support pole  14  and the support base  12 . It is intended, therefore, that the example provided herein be viewed as exemplary of the principles of the present invention, and not as restrictive to a particular structure for implementing those principles. 
     Also disposed in relation to the cross-brace member  66  is an engaging member  22 . As best illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , the engaging member  22 , being selectively moveable between an extended position and a retracted position so as to define an adjustable distance  24  therebetween, is disposed in pivotal engagement to the support pole  14  by means of one or more cross-brace members  66 . In one presently preferred embodiment, the engaging member  22  comprises a proximate end  21  pivotally connected to the second end  13  of the support pole  14  contiguous the front portion  36  of the support base  12  and proximate the receiving aperture  28  which structurally receives the support pole  14  in relation to the base  12 . The engaging member  22  also includes a distal end  23  and an elongate intermediate body portion  25  formed between the proximal and distal ends  21 ,  23  thereof. The distal  23  of the engaging member  22  is preferably configured to receive a hand of a user (e.g., forming a handle) to assist in maneuvering the basketball goal system  10  from one position to another when the engaging member  22  is positioned in the extended position. 
     As noted above, the engaging member  22  is structurally disposed relative to the rigid support pole  14  and the base  12  in such a manner that the engaging member  22  may be selectively pivoted between an extended position wherein the distal end  23  of the engaging member  22  may extend substantially outward and at an angle relative to the support pole  14  (as shown in  FIGS. 3 and 5 ) and a retracted position such that the distal end  23  of the engaging member  22  may be positioned substantially parallel to the generally upright disposition of the support pole  14  (as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2 , and  4 ). When the engaging member  22  is positioned in the extended position, an adjustable wheel assembly  50  is operably disposed into supportable engagement with the playing surface  26  such that the front portion  36  and at least a portion of the contacting surface  42  of the support base  12  is lifted from its frictional engagement with the playing surface, thereby allowing the basketball goal system  10  to be moved from one location to another. In contrast, when the engaging member  22  is positioned in the retracted position, the adjustable wheel assembly  50  is retracted from supportable engagement with the playing surface  26  such that the contacting surface  42  of the support base  12  remains in frictional engagement with the playing surface, thus restricting movement of the support base  12  and, correspondingly, the basketball goal system  10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , one presently preferred embodiment of the support base  12  includes a contacting surface  42  that may be formed having a slight slope upward gently toward the back portion  38  of the support base  12  to expose a roller  44  supportably engaging a portion of the contacting surface  42 . Preferably, a portion of the roller  44  remains in substantial communication with the playing surface  26  when the support base  12  is in the playing position. As will be appreciated, one or more rollers  44  may be supportably disposed in relation to the support base  12  at various positions between the front portion  36  and the back portion  38  of the support base, if desired, to assist in maneuvering the basketball goal system  10  when the engaging member  22  is selectively positioned in the extended position as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the roller  44  may comprise a caster or a single cylindrical wheel extending a sufficient length across the width of the support base  12  to assist with maneuvering of the support base  12  when the adjustable wheel assembly  50  is disposed in supportable relation to the playing surface  26 . It is anticipated, therefore, that any arrangement of rollers is herein contemplated to be within the scope of the present invention, so long as the rollers, independent of the adjustable wheel assembly  50 , cannot facilitate significant movement of the support base  12  without selectively disposing the engaging member  22  in the extended position, thus activating the supportable engagement of the adjustable wheel assembly  50  with the playing surface  26 . Preferably, two or more cylindrical wheels  44  are rotatably disposed in relation to the contacting surface  42  of the support base  12  proximate the back portion  38  to provide additional maneuvering support to the support base  12  when engaging the adjustable wheel assembly  50  and thus moving the basketball goal system  10  from one location to another. 
     The rollers  44  preferably turn about axles that are mounted in at least a portion of the contacting surface  42  of the support base  12  and are thus configured to support translation of the support base  12  along an axis extending between the front and back portions  36 ,  38 . The contacting surface  42 , however, fictionally engages the playing surface  26  at the front portion  36  of the support base  12 , so that the support base  12  remains substantially immobile until the adjustable wheel assembly  50  is selectively positioned to supportably engage the playing surface  26 . A substantial portion of the contacting surface  42  of the support base  12  therefore remains in frictional contact with the playing surface  26  to ensure that the basketball goal system  10  remains sufficiently stable even during rough game play. As best illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the engaging member  22 , when positioned in the retracted position, may be generally oriented substantially vertical in relation to the support base  12 , and may further act as a rebound surface for a basketball during game play. In this regard, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the intermediate body portion  25  of the engaging member  22  may be formed in geometrical configuration or shape sufficient to provide a rebound surface for a basketball. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , when the extending member  22  in positioned in the extended position, the distal end  23  of the extending member  22  is disposed outwardly away from the generally upward direction of the support pole  14 . Correspondingly, the adjustable wheel assembly  50  extends a length from its telescopic engagement with the second end  13  of the support pole  14 , thereby supportably lifting the front portion  36  of the support base  12  from frictional engagement with the playing surface  26 . In one presently preferred embodiment, the adjustable wheel assembly  50  comprises a caster  52  operably disposed in relation to a support assembly comprising a slider  64  having a dimensional length sufficient for selectively extending from a hollow channel formed at the second opposing end  13  of the support pole  14  when the engaging member  22  is positioned in the extended position. In structural relationship, the engaging member  22  preferably includes a cam adjustment surface  74  designed to rest upon a follower  68  that is operably attached to the slider  64  approximate a leading end thereof. In operation, the rotational position of the cam adjustment surface  74  determines the vertical positioning of the follower  68  along its length and therefore the corresponding vertical positioning of the slider  64  relative thereto, as best illustrated in  FIG. 4 and 5 . 
     In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the caster  52  engages a swivel base  82  rigidly connected to the leading end of the slider  64 . The operable relationship between the caster  52  and the swivel base  82  supports multiple directions of movement so that the front portion  36  of the support base  12  can be oriented in a lateral direction by manual manipulation of the distal end  23  of the engaging member  22  (e.g., which preferably provides a handle for gripping by a user). Maneuvering the basketball goal system  10  by selectively positioning of the engaging member  22  in the extended position and thereby disposing the caster  52  of the adjustable wheel assembly SO in supportable relationship with the playing surface  26  is thus intuitive and simple. 
     Preferably, the caster  52  is rotatably mounted at the leading end of the slider  64  of the adjustable wheel assembly SO. The caster  52  may comprise any configuration that permits rolling in several different directions. In one presently preferred embodiment of the adjustable wheel assembly SO, the caster  50  comprises a swivel base  82  affixed to the slider  64  to permit a full 3600 of rotation about the axis of the support pole  14 . An extension plate  84  may be mounted vertically, extending outwardly from engagement with the swivel base  82  to retain the caster  52  via an axle  86 . The caster or wheel  52  is preferably horizontally displaced from the axis of the support pole  14 , so that the caster  52  will align itself with a direction of motion of the front portion  36  of the base support  12 . Thus, a user may pull on the distal end  23  of the engaging member  22  to move the basketball goal system lain a forward direction or, in the alternative, a user may apply a pushing force against the distal end  23  of the engaging member  22  to rotate the caster  52  and thereby induce lateral movement in the front portion  36  of the support and, accordingly, cause controlled movement of the basketball goal system  10  from a first location to second location. 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the caster  52  may be configured to extend directly from the second end  13  of the support pole  14  so as to directly bear the weight of the pole  14 . It will be appreciated, however, that the caster  52  may be formed off-set the support pole  14  in such a manner so as to sufficiently support the weight of the support pole  14  and the front portion  36  of the support base  12  supportably lifted from engagement with the underlying playing surface  26 . It is intended, therefore, that the example provided herein be viewed as exemplary of the principles of the present invention, and not as restrictive to a particular structure for implementing those principles. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , a cross-sectional side view of the front portion  36  of the support base  12  of the basketball goal system  10  is illustrated as defined along lines “ 4 - 4 ” of  FIG. 1 . As shown, a receiving aperture  28  is preferably formed in the front portion  36  of the support base  12  and includes an internal periphery having a dimensional size and configuration sufficient to accommodate the second end] 3 of the support pole] 4 in fixed or pivotal engagement with the support base  12 . The receiving aperture  28  may be formed separate from an internal cavity  60  also formed in the support base  12 . The internal cavity  60  preferably comprises an internal dimensional periphery sufficient for holding a ballast material, as discussed above. 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the support pole  14  pivotally engages the support base  12  by means of a shaft  66  that preferably extends into the support base  12  on either or both sides of the second end  13  of the support pole  14 . The shaft  66  may terminate at one or both ends in a locking pin or shaped cap segment (not shown) designed to fit within a corresponding receiving slot (not shown) integrally formed in the front portion  36  of the support base  12  to restrict pivotal motion of the support pole  14  about the shaft  66 . The receiving slot may be open on the upper surface  40  of the support base  12  to permit easy assembly of the pole  14  and the base  12  by way of introducing the shaft  66  into the receiving slot (not shown). The proximal end  21  of the engaging member  22  may also be pivotally mounted on the shaft  66 , but is free to pivot about the shaft  66  independent the pivotal relationship of the support pole  14 . 
     It will be appreciated that a follower  68  may be supportably mounted on one or both sides of the slider  64  to provide structural support between the support base  12  and proximate end  21  of the engaging member  22  when the basketball goal system  10  is being moved from one location to another. Moreover, the follower  68  may take any form or configuration suitable for variably engaging the contoured cam adjustment surface  74  of the engaging member  22 . A simple smooth, rounded projection or knob may form the follower  68 ; however, in one presently preferred embodiment, a bearing  70  may be rotatably mounted on a hub  72  to provide smooth motion with a minimum of wear. As best illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the outer contacting edges of the follower  68  engage the cam adjustment surface  74  formed at the proximal end  21  of the engaging member  22 . The cam adjustment surface  74  preferably takes the form of a cam shaped to push the follower  68  to an extended position when the extending member  22  is positioned in the extended position, wherein the distal end  23  thereof is situated substantially outward and at an angle from the pole support  14 , as best illustrated in  FIG. 4 . 
     Referring specifically now to  FIG. 5 , the cam adjustment surface  74  is reoriented to structurally encourage the slider  64  substantially outward a length from the second end  13  of the support pole  14  via the engagement between the follower  68  and the cam surface  74 . As appreciated, the cam adjustment surface  74  must be properly contoured to ensure that a substantially consistent downward force on the follower  68  is maintained through the entire range of motion of the engaging member  22 . 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , a first structural stop  80  may be formed at the proximate end  21  of the engaging member  22  to engage the follower  68  and thereby provide a form of “capture” to prevent further extension of the engaging member  22  when positioned in the fully extended position. Alternatively, the engaging member  22  may function without the first structural stop  80  and thus permit the engaging member to extend into a near horizontal position, if desired. A second structural stop  81  may be formed at the proximate end  21  of the engaging member  22  to engage the follower  68  and thereby provide a form of “capture” to prevent further extension of the engaging member  22  when disposed in the fully retracted position. 
     Consistent with the foregoing, the present invention provides a novel basketball goal system  10  having a support base  12  which is moveable without having to physically tilt the support base  12  and thereby support a significant portion of the overall weight of the basketball goal system  10 . By selectively retracting the caster  52  of the adjustable wheel assembly  50  from supportable contact with the playing surface  26 , maneuverability and operation of the support base  12  are facilitated and safety is therefore increased. The pivoting engaging member  22  serves to thereby restrict movement of the support base  12  by preventing contact of the caster  52  with the playing surface  26 . Moreover, the engaging member  22  may provide a handle to assist in movement of the basketball goal assembly  10  and a rebound surface for the basketball during game play, if desired. 
     Stability of the basketball goal system  10  during play is improved by selectively maintaining a substantial portion of the contacting surface  38  of the support base  12  in frictional contact with the playing surface  26  for game play. Movement of the basketball goal system  10  from one location to another is further simplified by the use of an adjustable wheel assembly  50  operably disposed in extendable relation to the second end  13  of the support pole  14  engageably received at the front portion  36  of the support base  12 . The adjustable wheel assembly  50  comprises a caster  52  connected to a swivel base  82  which, in combination, permits the lateral movement of the front portion  36  of the support base  12  when the extending member  22  is positioned in the extended position. The incorporation of one or more rollers  44  in concert with the adjustable wheel assembly  50  facilitates controllable maneuverability of the basketball goal system  10  of the present invention from one location to another location. Moreover, the linear path of extension and retraction of the slider  64  and the caster  52  of the adjustable wheel assembly  50  enables supportable deployment of the caster  52  in relation to the playing surface  26  without substantially moving the basketball goal system  10 , so that easy adjustments are possible. 
     In addition, the structural arrangement of the cam adjustment surface  74  and the follower  68  has a number of operative benefits. For example, the leverage involved enables a user to lift the considerable weight of the front portion  36  of the support base  12  (i.e., over an inch or more) with a comparatively small downward force acting on the engaging member  22 . The cam adjustment surface  74  and the follower  68  are also enclosed within the receiving aperture  28 , so that fingers or other extremities of a user may not be easily pinched, and no significant part protrudes horizontally outward from the support base  12  in any configuration so as to injure a user or impede storage of the basketball goal system  10 . 
     The telescopic engagement between a length of the slider  64  and the second end  13  of the support pole  14  also imparts a number of distinct advantages to the present invention. For example, the mounting of the caster  52  on the slider  64  selectively disposed within hollow channel formed in the support pole  14  provides a more rigid connection than a fixture attached to a polymeric material, such as plastic, which may be used to form the support base  12 . This structural arrangement between the caster  52  and the slider  64  of the adjustable wheel assembly  50  with the support pole  14  provides a sturdier basketball goal system  10  in which the greatest loads are carried by stronger, more rigid members. Manufacturing and assembly of the basketball goal system  10  is also simplified by reducing the number of metal fixtures that must be mounted in relation to the support base  12  to retain metal parts. Consequently, the basketball goal system  10  of the present invention may be manufactured with comparatively little expense and difficulty. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its structures, methods, or other essential characteristics as broadly described herein and claimed hereinafter. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 
     Another presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, designated generally at  110 , is best illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 7 . As shown, the basketball goal assembly  110  comprises a support base  112  having a top surface  114 , a bottom surface  116 , a front end  118 , and a rear end  120 . The support base  112  rests on a generally horizontal playing surface and is configured to support the additional members of the basketball goal assembly  110 . 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the support base  112  is formed of a substantially sturdy, rigid material. For example, the support base  112  may be formed of a polymeric material such as, for example, a low-density linear polyethylene. It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that a wide variety of other suitable materials such as wood, fiberglass, ceramic, any of numerous organic, synthetic or process materials which are mostly thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers of high molecular weight, and/or other composite or polymeric materials are possible which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     The basketball goal assembly  110  further comprises an engaging member  122  having first and second ends  124  and  126 . In one presently preferred embodiment, the engaging member  122  generally tapers in width from the first end  124  as it extends towards the second end  126 . The first end  124  of the engaging member  122  is pivotally connected to the front end  118  of the support base  112 . This allows the engaging member  122  to pivot between the playing position as shown in  FIG. 6  and the extended position as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
     As with the support base  112 , in one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the engaging member  122  is formed of a substantially sturdy, rigid material. For example, the engaging member  122  may be formed of a polymeric material such as, for example, a low-density linear polyethylene. It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, however, that a wide variety of other suitable materials such as wood, fiberglass, ceramic, any of numerous organic, synthetic or process materials which are mostly thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers of high molecular weight, and/or other composite or polymeric materials are possible which are consistent with the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     In the playing position, the engaging member  122  extends in a generally upward direction relative to the support base  112 . The engaging member  122  is configured and disposed relative to the support base  112  such that when the engaging member  122  is selectively positioned in the playing position the first end  124  of the engaging member  122  contacts the playing surface. Contacting the playing surface thereby restricts movement of the support base  112 , as will be discussed in further detail below. In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the engaging member  122  includes a second end  126  having one or more extended portions  130 . The extended portions  130  form a recess  132  through which the front end  118  of the support base  112  may at least partially extend. The extended portions  130  are configured to contact the playing surface when the engaging member  122  is in the playing position. 
     Upon assembly, a support pole  128  is inserted into a receiving aperture (not shown) that is formed in the support base  112  such that the support pole  128  is retained in a substantially vertical orientation in relation to the base  112 . As appreciated, the support pole  128  is sufficiently secured in the receiving aperture of the base  112  to maintain the disposition of the pole  128 . The support pole  128  serves to support a basketball goal assembly  129  in relation to the playing surface. In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the engaging member  122  may be configured with a recess  134  which receives at least a portion of the pole  128  when the engaging member  122  is disposed in the playing position. 
     In the playing position, the engaging member  122  operates to restrict the movement of the support base  112  by supportably contacting the playing surface. Functionally, the engaging member  122  further serves to provide a rebound surface for a basketball during game play of shooting baskets. In addition, the engaging member  122  may provide protection for the securement of the pole  128  in the receiving aperture and function as a support to the pole  128  by means of engaging the pole  128 , as will be explained in further detail herein below. 
     With reference to  FIG. 7 , the basketball goal assembly  110  is shown with the engaging member  122  pivoted into the extended position. The extended position is defined herein as a position where the first end  124  of the engaging member  122  is not in contact with the playing surface. Specifically, the extended portions  130  of the engaging member  122  are no longer disposed in restrictive contact with the playing surface such that the support base  112  may be moved to another location, if desired. 
     In the extended position, the engaging member  122  may serve as a lever or handle to allow manual movement of the support base  112 . In one presently preferred embodiment, the engaging member  122  is further configured with one or more handles  136  on the second end  126 . The handles  136  serve to facilitate manual manipulation of the engaging member  122 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , another perspective view of the basketball goal assembly  110  is shown with the engaging member  122  disposed in the playing position. In one presently preferred embodiment, the second end  126  of the engaging member  122  is configured with a recess to receive and engage at least a portion of the length of the support pole  128 . The engaging member  122  may further comprise a removable fastener disposed on the second end  126  to secure the engaging member  122  to the pole  128  when in the playing position. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the removable fastener may include one or more clamps, pins, collars or the like. 
     In one presently preferred embodiment, the removable fastener may comprise a pair of brackets  138  formed adjacent the second end  126  of the engaging member  122 , as best shown in  FIG. 8 . When in the playing position, the support pole  128  is generally disposed between the brackets  138 . A retaining pin  140  may be introduced through a slot formed in the support pole  128  and supported to thereby selectively secure the engagement of the engaging member  122  to the pole  128 . This engagement prevents unexpected movement of the engaging member  122  during game play and thus retains the engaging member  122  in the playing position. In an alternative embodiment, the engaging member  122 , when secured to the pole, provides additional structural support to the pole  128 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 8 , a removable cap  144  is shown disposed at the back end  120  of the support base  112 . The cap  142  serves to allow the insertion or removal of a ballast material into an internal cavity formed in the support base  112 . With reference to  FIG. 9 , the support base  112  is shown without the engaging member  122 . In one presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support base  112  has an internal cavity  146  for receiving a ballast weight such as, for example, water, sand, or the like. The ballast weight provides support to the basketball goal assembly during rigorous game play. In such an embodiment, the support base  112  is configured with an opening  148  near, but spaced from, the top surface  114  of the support base  112  such that when the base  112  is filled with water to the point that the water level in the support base  112  reaches the opening  148 , a void remains within the top of the cavity  146  which does not fill with water. This is to allow expansion of the water in the case of freezing temperatures. 
     In operation, after introducing the ballast material into the internal cavity  146  of the support base  112 , the cap  144  may be secured into the opening  148  to prevent the displacement of the ballast material from the base  112 . As will be appreciated, the support base  112  may alternatively forgo the use of a cavity  146  and comprise sufficient weight to act as ballast in order to ensure the stability of the basketball goal assembly  110 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 10 , the bottom surface  116  of the support base  112  is shown. Preferably, the support base  112  comprises a roller  150  disposed in supportable relation to the support base  112  adjacent to the front end  118  of the base  112 . The roller  150  is capable of supporting the effective weight of the support base  112  to thereby maneuver the base  112  from place to place. In one presently preferred embodiment, the roller  150  comprises a single roller extending a sufficient length across the width of the support base  112  to allow maneuvering of the base  112 . Alternatively, the roller  150  may comprise two or more rollers  150  for supporting the support base  112 . The roller  150  may be embodied as a cylindrical wheel or a caster. One of skill in the art will readily appreciate that various embodiments of the roller  150  are possible and are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. 
     The support base  112  may include a caster  152  disposed in relation to the bottom surface  116  of the base  112  at a spaced apart distance from the roller  150 . The caster  152  serves to provide additional support to facilitate maneuvering of the support base  112  when disposing the engaging member  122  in the extended position. In one presently preferred embodiment, the caster  152  may be disposed at an intermediate position between the front and back ends  118 ,  120  of the support base  112  to better balance the weight between the roller  150  and the caster  152 . 
     Referring again to  FIG. 10 , the support base  112  may include a shaft  154  (shown in phantom) that preferably extends across at least a portion of the width of the base  112  and is operably secured to the engaging member  122  at its first end  124 . The shaft  154  supports the engaging member  122  and provides an axle about which the engaging member  122  can pivot between the playing position as shown in  FIG. 6  and the extended position as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
     In the presently preferred embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the shaft  154  extends into the extended portions  130  of the support base  112 . In an alternative preferred embodiment, the shaft  154  may comprise two portions with each portion separately secured to the engaging member  122  and the support base  112 . In yet another alternative embodiment, the shaft  154  may extend through the roller  150  and provide a supporting axle to the roller  150 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 11A , a side view of the basketball goal assembly  110  is shown with the engaging member  122  in the playing position. The engaging member  122  is configured and disposed in relation to the support base  112  such that when in the playing position the first end  124  of the engaging member  122  contacts the playing surface  156  to prevent movement of the basketball goal assembly  110 . In a presently preferred embodiment, the extended portions  130  of the engaging member  122  contact the playing surface  156 , as best shown in  FIG. 6 . The engaging member  122  contacts the playing surface  156  and thus prevents contact between the roller  150  and the playing surface  156 . This effectively renders the roller  150  inoperable and prevents movement of the support base  112 . 
     In an embodiment utilizing the caster  152 , contact between the caster  152  and the playing surface  156  is maintained. The support base  112  may be slightly tilted by the engaging member  122  such that a portion of the support base  112  adjacent the back end  120  contacts the playing surface  156 . This contact prevents a further restriction to movement. 
     With reference to  FIG. 11B , a side view of the basketball goal assembly  110  is shown with the engaging member  122  in the extended position. In this position, the engaging member  122  is not in contact with the playing surface  156 . Thus, the roller  150 , as well as the caster  152 , remains in contact with the playing surface  156 . In the extended position, the support base  112  may then be maneuvered to another location, as desired. The second end  126  of the engaging member  122  may be used to guide and otherwise maneuver the support base  112  to the new location. 
     With reference to  FIG. 12 , the engaging member  122  is shown in the extended position wherein being disposed in a generally horizontal position relative to the support base  112  to accommodate for compact storage of the support base  112  and the engaging member  122  after removal of the support pole  128 . In such a position, the basketball goal assembly  110  is suitable for storage or shipping. 
     As disclosed herein, the present invention provides a novel two-part support base for a basketball goal assembly  110  having a support base  112  which is readily moveable without having to physically tilt the base  112  and thereby support a significant portion of its weight. By manually maintaining contact between the first end  124  of the engaging member  122  with the playing surface  156 , movement of the support base  112  is facilitated and safety is therefore increased. The pivoting engaging member  122  serves to thereby restrict movement of the support base  112  by preventing contact of the roller  150  with the playing surface  156 . Moreover, the engaging member  122  may provide a handle to assist in movement of the basketball goal assembly  110 , a rebound surface for the basketball during game play and a protective shield to protect the securement of the support pole  128  in relation to the support base  112 , if desired. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.