Any basketball player who wants to improve their game knows how important it is to practice day in and day out. Unfortunately, not being able to drive to the gym or afford a pricey in-ground hoop means a lot of people don’t get the chance to practice as much as they should. Fortunately, there’s a solution.
Wall-mounted basketball hoops eliminate the need for a pole and fixture in the ground. They’re more sturdy than most affordable portable hoops and because you’re only paying for a backboard and the rim, they’re generally cheaper too.
So, whether you want to go old school and get a hoop over the garage or put one up in your pole barn, these wall-mounted hoops make playing the game affordable and accessible. We’ve compiled the best wall-mounted hoops based on three categories: Least Expensive ($200-450), Mid-Range ($450-750), and High End ($750+).
Take a look at some features, user ratings, and a rundown on the best wall-mounted hoops we’ve found. Hopefully, this guide will make finding your next hoop easier than a wide-open Steph 3 or a Michael Jordan slam.
*For those looking for a different kind of basketball hoop, be sure to check out our guides to portable basketball hoops and in-ground basketball hoops.
Hoops Summary Chart
Use our wall-mounted basketball hoops summary chart to fast track your way around this page to any hoop on our list that you are interested in. To jump to a hoop simply click on the basketball hoop name.
| Basketball Hoop | Backboard Size | Backboard Material | Rating (0/5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54 Inch | Acrylic | 3.75 | |
|
50 Inch |
Polycarbonate |
3.5 | |
|
54 Inch |
Acrylic |
4.4 | |
|
48 Inch |
Tempered Glass |
4.4 | |
|
72 Inch |
Tempered Glass |
4.7 | |
|
72 Inch |
Tempered Glass |
4.75 |
Least Expensive ($200-$450)
Spalding Wall Mount Basketball Hoop
| Backboard Size: | 54 Inches |
| Backboard Material: | Acrylic |
| Rim Type: | Regulation Size Arena Slam |
| Height Adjustment: |
7-10 Feet w/ U-Lift Bracket |
| Bracket Included: |
No |
| Price: | $292 |
This hoop brings a pro game with a budget price tag. It even features the NBA logo on the backboard for a professional look and feels. The 54” acrylic backboard is surrounded by a 1” x 1” steel frame lets you get competitive play in a casual environment. You’ll have plenty of room to work on banking the ball into the hoop from any angle and will get a consistent, sturdy bounce.
The rim is the regulation size and features Arena Slam technology for, you guessed it, slam dunking. The bottom of the board is outfitted with authentic style padding for extra protection when going up strong.
The only downside to this wall-mounted hoop is that it doesn’t come with the hardware to secure it to the wall. Fortunately, it is compatible with most brackets so you won’t need to break the bank to get one. In all, this Spalding hoop is a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike.
What We Like About This Hoop
- The Price point is affordable for almost any family
- Authentic NBA logo branding and details give it a professional feel
- Pro-Slam rim helps it hold up on even the most ferocious dunks
What Would Make This Hoop Better
- Does not include mounting hardware
Lifetime Backboard Rim Combo
| Backboard Size: |
50/52 Inches |
| Backboard Material: |
Polycarbonate |
| Rim Type: |
Slam-It Rim |
| Height Adjustment: |
No |
| Bracket Included: |
No |
| Price: |
$199.95 |
Anyone who had a driveway hoop growing up will likely recognize the name Lifetime. This iconic home hoop brand has been around for decades and has given many street ballers a hoop to play on. This hoop carries on that tradition with simplicity and performance.
The backboard is made from polycarbonate and is framed in steel. It measures in at 50” so it’s plenty big for pickup games. The Slam-It pro rim lets you dunk like Shaq without worrying about breaking your hoop.
Like the Spalding, it doesn’t come with mounting hardware and requires the special Lifetime 9594 mounting kit. However, you can use this backboard on its own for mounting to a wall or to replace a backboard on your regular hoop.
What We Like About This Hoop
- Slam-It rim makes dunking a worry-free sport
- 50-inch polycarbonate backboard is reinforced with steel for durability
- Can be wall-mounted or used to replace a backboard on a regular hoop
What Would Make This Hoop Better
- Doesn’t include special Lifetime mounting hardware
- Assembly process is challenging
Mid Range ($500-750)
Silverback NXT Wall Mounted Adjustable Basketball Hoop
| Backboard Size: |
54 Inches |
| Backboard Material: |
Polycarbonate |
| Rim Type: |
Regulation Size Spring Rim |
| Height Adjustment: |
7.5-10 Feet |
| Bracket Included: |
Yes |
| Price: |
$299.95 |
If you’re looking for more features in your wall-mounted basketball hoop then look no further than the Silverback NXT. This is a similar backboard to the one that comes on their portable hoop with the same name.
The 54” polycarbonate backboard has edges that wrap around the back as one continuous piece of material. This makes the whole thing more rigid to give you more game-like bounce. A spring-activated rim is designed to flex slightly under pressure when a shot hits it so it feels like shooting on a pro rim.
Meanwhile, the Silverback NXT uses an all-steel crank actuator to let you adjust the height of the hoop from 7.5 feet to 10 feet and then lock it in place. Since it features powder-coated steel and a covered breakaway rim, you can mount this hoop inside or outside. It also comes with a five-year limited warranty should things not go according to plan.
What We Like About This Hoop
- Wraparound polycarbonate backboard makes the whole hoop more rigid
- Pro-style spring-activated rim bounces realistically
- Adjustable from 7.5-10 feet
What Would Make This Hoop Better
- Heavy 140lbs hoop will need serious mounting hardware
- No padding on the bottom of the backboard could lead to injuries
High End ($750+)
First Team Uni-Champ II
| Backboard Size: |
48 Inches |
| Backboard Material: |
Tempered Glass |
| Rim Type: |
Gym Quality Spring Rim |
| Height Adjustment: |
7.6-10 Feet |
| Bracket Included: |
Yes |
| Price: |
$1049 |
At first glance, you’ll notice that this hoop stands out from the others. In more ways than one. For starters, the backboard looks tiny compared to the massive 72” one in the ProGoal. This one from First Team features a small 48” backboard. Though this may seem like a drawback, it makes the hoop perfect for tight spaces.
Speaking of making space feel bigger, the mounting design of the hoop also helps out. It mounts to the wall via the Uni-Strut brace and then extends out. This gives players more space under the basket to move without worrying about running into the wall. In fact, it gives 20” of clearance between the backboard and wall when the rim is at 10’ height.
For anyone looking to maximize a tighter space with a hoop, this is a great choice. Its compact nature lets it fit anywhere while its high-quality materials deliver great performance.
What We Like About This Hoop
- Compact design makes it ideal for tight spaces
- Uni-Strut brace gives 20″ of clearance between backboard and wall
- Flexible adjustment from 7.6′ to 10′ in 6″ increments
What Would Make This Hoop Better
- The Uni-Strut is an eyesore that makes the hoop look less professional
ProGoal Vertical Wall-mounted Adjustable-Height Basketball Hoop
| Backboard Size: |
60/72 Inches |
| Backboard Material: |
Tempered Glass |
| Rim Type: |
Gym Quality Spring Rim |
| Height Adjustment: |
7.5-10 Feet |
| Bracket Included: |
Yes |
| Price: |
$1728 |
Now that we’ve entered the realm of high-end hoops, we’d like to introduce you to the hoop you’ve always dreamt of. This 72” backboard is tempered glass, offering the highest quality play of any material. Tempered glass has the best rigidity and offers a true gym-style experience. ProGoal also uses at least ½” thicker glass than most other companies which makes the hoop even better. The massive backboard is also regulation size so you can practice shooting at a hoop that’s the right size.
The system has only three steps in its installation process which makes setup a breeze. It also boasts a unique telescoping frame for mounting it on any vertical wall even where space is limited.
This wall-mounted hoop also includes padding along the bottom of the backboard for safety and a double spring rim. Of course, if you want a gym-style experience from your backboard, you want it from the rim too. No fear, this one delivers.
What We Like About This Hoop
- Regulation size 72″ backboard makes the hoop very realistic
- Thick tempered glass gives you gym-style performance
- Quick, easy 3 step installation
What Would Make This Hoop Better
- While this hoop offers incredible features, they come at a very high price tag
First Team WALLMONSTER
| Backboard Size: |
72 Inches |
| Backboard Material: |
Tempered Glass |
| Rim Type: |
Gym Quality Spring Rim |
| Height Adjustment: |
6-10 Feet |
| Bracket Included: |
Yes |
| Price: |
$2112 |
If you liked the other First Team hoop that gives you space between the backboard and wall, then you’ll love this one. Where the previous one was compact, this one is massive. It boasts a regulation 72” backboard made from tempered glass. That means you’re getting better performance and more standard size.
This wall-mounted hoop also features a heavy-duty flex breakaway rim so you can dunk like a pro. Its height can be adjusted from 6-10 feet. Depending on the height you set it at, you can adjust the space between the backboard and wall from 36-48 inches. This means players can truly rotate and play under the basket without fear of crashing into the wall.
Meanwhile, a powder-coated structure and lifetime warranty means this hoop is built to be durable and last for years. Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, First Time really delivered with this one. If you’ve got the extra money to spend, we suggest doing so on this awesome hoop.
What We Like About This Hoop
- Regulation size 72″ tempered glass backboard offers pro performance
- 36-48″ clearance between backboard and wall simulates gym-style play
- Lifetime warranty and sturdy construction means this hoop is built to last
What Would Make This Hoop Better
- Hefty price tag for pro-style features
What Should You Look for In The Best Wall-Mounted Basketball Hoops?
1. Backboards
Size
Basketball hoops come with backboards of different sizes and materials. Generally, the smallest backboard we could find on a wall-mounted basketball system is 48 inches. Since the mounting hardware used by these hoops can hold heavy weights, you can find 72-inch regulation sized backboards.
If If you don’t need a pro-style experience, 52-60 inches works great and gives you enough room to make bank shots and put english on the ball.
Material
While backboard size is the first feature that comes to mind for many buyers when looking to buy the best wall mount basketball hoop, we believe that an even more important factor is the wall mount basketball hoop’s backboard material.
Polycarbonate Backboards
Most inexpensive Lifetime and lower-priced Spalding systems will have a backboard that is made of a polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate is extremely durable and will be unlikely to break if tipped over or during rough play. However, while durability is a strength for polycarbonate backboards, performance is a big weakness.
Wall mount basketball hoops with polycarbonate backboards often tend to have a “dead” feel when the basketball comes off the backboard during shots. This significantly changes the way rebounds play on cheaper polycarbonate backboards compared to top-end tempered glass backboards.
Generally, we recommend wall-mounted basketball hoops with polycarbonate backboards for families who want to use the basketball hoop for recreational play and for young children learning the game.
Acrylic Backboards
The middle tier backboard material that is found on many basketball hoops today is acrylic. Acrylic backboards are less durable than their polycarbonate counterparts but perform much better. Acrylic backboards are generally featured on middle-priced wall-mounted basketball systems that offer a greater number of features.
If you take the game seriously but live in an area where severe weather, including high winds, can occur then we would suggest considering a hoop with an acrylic backboard.
Tempered Glass Backboards
When you are ready to dig deep into your wallet and will only accept the best wall-mounted basketball system, then it is time to invest in a hoop with a tempered glass backboard. Tempered glass is the real deal and is the type of backboard used on indoor hoops across the country.
These backboards perform better than both acrylic and polycarbonate materials. Wall-mounted basketball systems with tempered glass will have rebound performance that is superior and will be more game-like.
The biggest issue with tempered glass backboards is that they are susceptible to shattering. For this reason, we would recommend that if you are going to spend the money to buy a hoop with a tempered glass backboard that it also includes a breakaway rim and is mounted sturdily on the wall. If it comes crashing down or a dunk rips the rim off you’ll likely have a shattered backboard to deal with.
2. Rims
There are three main types of rims that you will see on modern basketball systems. Each has pros and cons which are important to consider when selecting a hoop.
Standard Rim
The standard basketball rim has been around for several decades. It has no compression springs, making it more susceptible to breaking or warping if dunked on overtime.
If you do not plan to use your hoop for dunking and do not plan to spend much money, then we would suggest you purchase a hoop with a standard rim over a wall-mounted basketball hoop with a cheap compression spring as the standard rim tends to have better performance than those with a cheap single compression spring.
Compression Breakaway Rim (No Cover)
The next step up from the standard rim is the breakaway rim that features compression springs that are exposed. These rims are better able to take mild to moderate dunking without becoming damaged. They are still not good for harder dunks or rim hanging.
These cheaper compression rims do have a tendency to be a bit more “bouncy” than we prefer. Also, because the springs are exposed there is a greater chance that they will rust over time, which diminishes the rim’s performance.
Pro-Style Compression Breakaway Rim (Springs Covered)
When it comes to wall-mounted basketball systems, the best hoops come with professional-grade breakaway rims that have the springs protected in a box that connects to the backboard.
These rims are generally able to take a lot more punishment than the cheaper rims. Even though this is the case we still recommend limiting the amount of rim hanging you do to avoid damage. These pro-style rims will also bounce much less on a shot compared to the cheaper compression rims.
3. Mounting Hardware
Hardware Design
Most wall-mounted basketball systems require separate hardware that anchors your hoop the wall. This bracket will be screwed into the wall and then the hoop will be attached to it. When looking for appropriate hardware, we suggest the following manufacturer guidelines to find the best one. It should be able to hold 1.5x the weight of the hoop to ensure your system won’t fall down.
Some systems use a large brace and a complex mechanism to hold the hoop out and away from the wall. While this makes play safer and more realistic, it is usually found only in high-end systems.
Other Factors To Consider For Wall-Mounted Basketball Hoops
Local Weather
Many wall-mounted systems are attached above a garage or in a non-climate controlled barn. This means you must take local weather conditions into account.
High rain and humidity areas may cause your hoop to rust over time. If you live in high humidity areas I recommend buying a hoop that has a rim with covered springs to protect the rim’s integrity from the elements.
If you’re considering buying a tempered glass backboard system, we recommend using it indoors only as harsh weather conditions can make it weak and possibly cause it to crack.
Budget
It stinks, but the reality is that how much money you have to purchase a hoop will impact what system you buy. Those with deeper pockets will have access to the nicest wall-mounted hoops like the First Team Wallmonster, while the rest of us may have to settle for a decent but less impressive Spalding hoop.
In my list, I’ve tried to compile the best wall-mounted hoops for each price range, so I hope that there is a hoop here that will meet your needs and your budget.
Your Hoop Needs
Not everyone needs the biggest and best basketball hoop for their home. If you are a mom or dad and want a hoop for your kids to play on for fun, then, by all means, pick up a good lower-cost hoop and watch them enjoy the game of basketball at a recreational level.
For those who are serious players or are committed to developing their skills, then make the wall-mounted system you buy a bigger priority by preparing to spend more for a better hoop. Look for hoops with enclosed spring rims, acrylic backboards or better yet, a tempered glass one. You’ll be spending hundreds of hours using this hoop and it is best to spend more now and get something that will last as you grow your skillset.
Be sure to consider all of these factors when choosing which wall-mounted basketball hoop to buy. We hope this guide has been helpful and we welcome feedback in the comments section below.
If you’re looking for even more information on how to pick a basketball hoop, check out our ultimate basketball hoop buying guide.
FAQ – Wall-Mounted Basketball Hoops
1. How much time does it take to install a wall-mounted hoop?
This really depends on the model of hoop that you’ve purchased. In general, cheaper units will take less time to assemble and install (~1-2 1/2 hours) while premium systems will take longer (~2 1/2-4 hours).
2. How many people do you recommend for the assembly and installation process?
Since installing a wall-mounted hoop requires holding it in place steadily while it is mounted to a bracket, you probably won’t be able to do it on your own. Large systems weigh upwards of 300 lbs. You’ll likely need 2-3 people to install a wall-mounted hoop safely.
3. Where should I put my hoop?
Wall-mounted hoops are great because they can attach to almost any flat wall. We recommend a spacious area like a flat driveway or inside a pole barn. You should look for an area with around 40×40 feet of open space and a high ceiling or no ceiling. You also need to ensure your wall is sturdy and can safely support the additional weight.
4. What height should I set the hoop for my child?
Here are our recommendations:
7 years of less – 6-7 feet
8-9 years – 8 feet
10 years – 9 feet
11 years and up – 10 feet
5. Any tips on mounting the hoop?
Since the hoop system itself is so heavy, you should measure out where it will go and install the mounting hardware first. Then all you’ll need to do is lift the hoop and attach it rather than trying to hold it in place or adjust the placement. A tape measure is your friend in this case.
6. How do I minimize hoop rust?
If possible, mount your hoop in an indoor location. If this isn’t possible, you should coat the most susceptible areas of the hoop with this corrosion inhibitor from WD-40 every year. This includes any bolts, joints, and the rim.
7. Can I dunk on a wall-mounted basketball hoop?
We don’t recommend dunking on a wall-mounted hoop regularly. Some systems include “slam” rims which technically make it safe to do so. However, if you want your hoop to last in the long-term, you should limit dunking. If you do choose to, be sure your wall can support the extra weight and that the hoop is secured to avoid serious injury should it fall down. You should also never hang on the rim.