The 5 Best Basketball Return Systems in 2021

Spalding has long been a trusted manufacturer of basketball products. Thus, it is no surprise that the Spalding Back Atcha exudes high-quality craftsmanship. The in-hand feel is sturdy. This return system is sure to last you a very long time, thanks to an excellent physical design.

What’s more, it is incredibly affordable. It is well below the price of average basketball return systems. It brings forth an excellent value per price ratio.

This style of basketball rebounder must be set up in a unique way. Two hooks allow the tool to sit at the back of the rim. The tool extends under the netting of the rim. The idea behind this training aid is to reward those who make the shot. If and only if you sink the shot, the training aid will deliver the ball back in your direction.

Unfortunately, not every aspect of this system is ideal. The tool is incapable of bending. It can only send the basketball back in a straight line from the rim. For this reason, it is most suitable for free throw practice.

It is best to avoid angled shots because the return system will have you chasing the ball down the middle. This defeats the purpose of a return system.

Pros:
• Specializes in free throw accuracy
• Does not return missed shots; it is great for experienced players who don’t mind a challenge
• Long-lasting design
• Extremely affordable

Cons:
• Cannot bend or rotate
• Only returns made shots
• Must chase the ball if shooting from an angle

There’s no denying that this basketball return system by Rukket has a premium price tag. However, you get what you pay for with this exceptional basketball return system. Let’s begin with this product’s greatest weakness. It does not return made shots or shots that hit the hoop. This return system is focused on keeping the ball in play and out of the surrounding area.

When playing basketball outdoors, your ball can often end up on the road or in a neighboring backyard. Luckily this return system is designed to prevent that. This guard isn’t for those who are looking to practice shooting drills. Instead, the return system is best during scrimmages or 1 vs. 1 play.

Whether it is misplaced shots that miss the mark or missed passes that take a wrong turn, this return system has got it covered. Unlike other nets of this type that require a pole structure to attach to, this guard stands on its own. It is adaptable and compatible with just about any basketball hoop, even those without a pole.

This returns system does require more setup than traditional systems due to the numerous parts. However, it is certainly more rewarding as there are multiple uses. The best use for this net is to practice three-point shooting. Due to the long distance involved, beginners often miss the hoop entirely when practicing threes. This return system will ease that grueling process.

Furthermore, the guard is upright away from the hoop to act as a makeshift defender that you must shoot over. Rukket’s product is a great practice partner, and with a lifetime warranty, you’ll always be able to rely on your trusted helper.

Pros:
• Comes with a carry bag
• Lifetime warranty
• Adaptable in terms of placement, no pole requirement
• Can be positioned upright to mimic a defender
• Great for three-point practice and scrimmages
• Ball will never escape the area of play

Cons:
• Does not return made shots or shots that hit the hoop or rim
• Several pieces and timely setup
• Can prove feeble when tested with high-velocity shots

This basketball return system is one of the most forgiving systems on the market. Goalrilla designed a return system to truly benefit newcomers and those trying to improve with little experience. There are very few basketball return systems that can cover the same area as this net does.

The maximum guard area is 10 inches wide by 8 inches tall. Before we get into the size variety, let's take a look at the installation. Goalrilla implements a unique method of installation. The entire system wraps neatly along the main pole of the basketball hoop. This return system can only be used in tandem with hoops that have a main pole.

For practice purposes, some individuals opt to use a backboard and rim placed on a wall. Before purchasing this return system, make sure that your hoop is compatible.

Once attached to the main pole, the net can retract or extend to your liking. The system is split in half, with each side of the pole protected by rebound netting. Most of the time, you’ll find yourself spreading the guard to maximum capacity.

This return system has less of an impact on improving your shooting than other systems. Due to the placement of the netting behind the rim, it doesn’t return the ball on made shots. Instead, it focuses on returning missed shots and airballs. For this reason, only beginners should look into purchasing this net. Also, one of its main uses is to protect stray balls from escaping the area of play. If your ball is constantly rolling into the street beyond your basketball hoop, then this guard is perfect for you.

Pros:
• Easy installation that folds nicely
• Guard covers a large area
• Great for keeping balls in play and out of the street
• Ideal for young players or basketball first-timers

Cons:
• Only appeals to beginners
• Does not return ball on made shots
• Requires a main pole

Hathaway’s basketball return system corrects a common issue that plagues most basketball return systems. Thanks to the weighted support, the netting does not move as frequently as most systems do. Basketballs are quite heavy and, without weighted guards, some return systems end up shifting and moving, sometimes even collapsing under the weight of a shot.

The weights must be filled with water. There are four water bags in total that can each hold a maximum of 1.5 gallons. It is safe to say your return system isn’t going anywhere.

In addition to the weights, Hathaway produces a durable build, mostly thanks to the strength of the netting. The fortified polyester netting will not tear easy. The netting is strong enough to return oncoming shots without applying too much pressure that would send the ball flying away from the shooter.

Installation has never been easier. Most basketball return systems require assembly that includes screws, bolts, and additional material. Luckily this system forgoes complex installation methods. Utilizing a harness, the netting is attached to the backboard. It doesn’t get easier than this.

Finally, the slant and positioning of the netting is this system’s greatest strength. Due to the angle and placement of the protective netting, this system excels at returning both missed and made shots. This is the ideal tool for practicing shooting as both beginners and experts can expect to miss shots and make others.

Pros:
• Appeals to all skill levels
• Returns both missed and made shots
• Weighted system
• High-quality material and build
• No bolts or screws needed for assembly

Cons:
• Filling the weights with water is an extra step in the process

This ball return trainer by SKLZ is the perfect tool to increase your shooting percentage. This versatile basketball return system is a harsh teacher. It only returns made shots. It is ideal for those looking to sharpen their shooting skills.

The perfect drill to run when using this tool is a shooting drill. What’s more, is that it isn’t limited to one direction. Due to the curve of the mechanism and flexibility, you can angle the chute to return balls directly to your shooting position. This means that you can practice shots anywhere along the shooting arch.

Installation is a quick process that is sure to save you time and have you practicing right away. Whether you use a backboard and rim or a traditional basketball hoop, you can properly utilize the SKLZ basketball return system. Simply clip the chute to the rim via the plastic hooks, and voila, your ball is bound to return to your original location.

Due to the plastic material used, this tool isn’t invincible. You can expect to see some visible wear and tear, especially if you’re practicing every single day. In addition, the plastic hooks will eventually break. The product itself isn’t indestructible, and we must remember we’re throwing a pretty heavy ball at it. Luckily this system is quite affordable.

Of course, this system does not return missed shots. It forces the individual to go through some harsh training. You’ll have more incentive to make your shots. The functionality is excellent, and the chute returns the ball efficiently.

Pros:
• Easy setup and removal
• Angled chute and rotatable nature means you can shoot from anywhere
• Great for all distance shooting
• Motivates individuals to make shots

Cons:
• Only returns ball on made shots
• Plastic clips can break off over time
• Can be a harsh training method for beginners