Are you a basketball teacher or a gym instructor looking for a way to help your students get the most out of their workouts?  Is there far too much time spent running after loose balls rather than shooting?  If this sounds anything like you, you need a basketball return system.  A basketball return system is a great way to ensure time is not spent chasing rebound balls are the court.

Imagine practicing your free throws, and instead of spending time perfecting your form and stance, you spent the majority of your time running after runaway balls.  All of that could be alleviated with the use of a basketball return system. A basketball return system can come in a variety of forms and styles. It can be mounted to the rim of your hoop, or it can merely be a netting surrounding your hoop so that the basketball always comes back to you.

Regardless of the style you choose, its main objective is to send the ball back to you rather you miss or make the shot. These can be used during casual games or practices to ensure that you are using your time to the fullest potential or to ensure that if you are practicing outside, the ball isn’t going anywhere that it shouldn’t.

If you’re still wondering if you really need one and which basketball ball return machine is the best, then you have come to the right place.  We will not only provide you with the best systems but also answer common questions concerning getting a new basketball ball return. All you have to do is pay attention and keep reading.

If you want to get back to playing basketball, get our top pick for best basketball return system here .

Our Favorites for the Best Basketball Return Systems

Rukket Basketball Return Net Guard and Backstop

Rukket Basketball Return Net Guard and Backstop is a return basketball ball system that is great for yards and residential neighborhoods. This system is highly revered by the individuals purchasing it and its easily removable body.  Your kids will never have to chase a ball in the street again. 

What Makes it Unique:

• This basketball catch net is easily stored and can be set up in minutes. 
• This system’s ball return feature means that any missed shots can roll safely off of its netting back into the playing area. 
• This Rukket Basketball Return Net Guard and Backstop fits any basketball hoop style.  No matter if your hoop is fixed or portable, this system can be used. 
• Though this feature does not directly return shots to the user, less endurance is needed to chase balls into the neighbor’s yard.
• This basketball return system will work with any surface or base. The base of the system is metal, and net loops allow the bottom to be anchored.

Why Choose This Basketball Return System:

• Many owners say that the Rukket Basketball Return Net Guard and Backstop is successfully holding the ball from rolling down streets and into the neighbor’s yard.
• Several purchasers have attested to the return system is easy to set up and maintain.
• Though this item is moderately pricey, it is a suburban homeowner’s dream.  The item is sustainable and durable.

---

Spalding Back Atcha Ball Return Training Aid

When you think of basketball, you always think of Spalding.  Spalding is a sporting brand that has a long and rich history.  In 1876, their first store opened in Chicago, IL. During that same time, the first Spalding baseball was also created.  This became the official National League baseball from 1876 to 1976.  

Spalding’s first basketball came in 1894.  Currently, they are the official balls of the NBA and Basketball Australia. Spalding brings this affordable option into the mix, which is easy to use and extremely simple to remove and install.

What Makes it Unique:

• This Rukket Basketball Return Net Guard and Backstop returns balls at a ninety-degree arc. 
• This system is not meant to be a professionally used item but is instead ideal for outdoor residential gameplay.
• This item was created with solo practices in mind. However, this aid is only useful if you make your shots.  When a shot goes through the rim, it is returned to you.
• This return aid has a durable molded exterior and fits most home rims. The Spalding Back Atcha can be installed in thirty seconds or less.  It also requires no tools to insert or remove.

Why Choose This Basketball Return System:

• This is a basic simple system for casual play. The items are made of hard plastic and will not damage your hoop.
• No matter if you’re lazy or if you’re looking to keep your time focused on your shooting, this is the perfect mechanism for you.
• This is an excellent cheap alternative if you’re not looking to spend lots of money on a return system.
• The Rukket Basketball Return Net Guard and Backstop attaches to the net of your basketball hoop.  It is loose enough to take shots from all angles. There should be a fair amount of slack between the net and the return system as to not restrict the ball or break the basketball net.

---

Polypropylene Pro Sports Boomerang

This is a pricey investment, but it is excellent for things like basketball camps and basketball development programs.  This allows for full-court play and rotations to occur with several athletes at a time. This Polypropylene Pro Sports Boomerang can even be set up as a timed competition between two players.  This system allows instructors to get creative with their drills and create workouts that are enjoyable and fun. The boomerang is extremely popular and can be used for a variety of age groups from adults down to children.

What Makes it Unique:

• This basketball return system has a multitude of zones.  These zones allow for various things to happen simultaneously. 
• Not only does the Polypropylene Pro Sports Boomerang system capture the ball after it has been released from the net, but it also delivers it to a standing rack for the next player to grab.
• This item is perfect for shooting drills and teaching large classes of students at a time. The arms extend in two directions for half-court gameplay.

Why Choose This Basketball Return System:

• This Polypropylene Pro Sports Boomerang allows for two players to shoot at a time from the baseline.  This can be done in tandem or a competitive style.
• The diverter allows the ball to be split into four different positions.  These directions are either left and right or front and back.
• The ramps on the device can also be used for driveway and backyard use.
• The arm ramps can also move from their corners to the opposite elbow. 

---

The Runner-Ups for the Best Basketball Return Systems

Ballback Pro Return System

The Ballback Pro Return System is a fantastic addition to any basketball hoop. It is excellent for single play and easy rebounding.  This allows you never to have to chase a ball again. Ballback’s system is similar to Spalding’s affordable and accessible return option but with a slightly different design.  Ballback Inc also offers several other basketball accessories for students to get to increase their game. This includes items like Rim Skims, ballaways, and basketball pedestals.

What Makes it Unique:

• The Ballback Pro Return System is a great system when playing solo.  However, it is only useful if you make the shot. This accessory provides a proven way for students of the game to spend more time shooting. 
• The ball is returned in a 90-degree arc.  This arc allows the balls to go back into the play area easily and quickly.

Why Choose This Basketball Return System:

• Purchasers love the ease of this system.  It can be installed and removed within seconds. 
• This is a great way to keep the balls away from the street when playing basketball outside. 
• This is a great affordable option for solo kids or consistent practice sessions. This allows athletes to practice more outside of full or team practices and come back to their next session more prepared.

---

Goalrilla Basketball Hoop Return System

This Goliath product is excellent for practicing free throws with in-ground basketball hoops. If you are not satisfied, you have 90 days to decide that this is not the system for you.  However, they are sure that you will agree with the majority owners who say this item is durable and easily stored. 

What Makes it Unique:

• This Goalrilla Basketball Hoop Return System is made with sturdy mesh netting.  This netting is stable and held by anchors which can be filled with water or sand.
• The net also provides safety releases in the invent that someone gets stuck in the netting. 

Why Choose This Basketball Return System:

• Goalrilla Basketball Hoop Return System is not only a perfect way to perfect your basketball skill but a great way to keep the balls around the hoop.  It also rewards the shooting by directing the ball back to them. 
• This is also an excellent option for families living in the suburbs who enjoy their landscape and want to keep balls off their neighbor’s lawn.  
• If you are looking for a way to help your child practice their basketball skills solo, this is it.  You no longer must wait for basketball with the team to perfect your form.
• This is ideal for large spaces as it can take up a great deal of space.  

---

The Value Picks for the Best Basketball Return Systems

iC3 Basketball Shot Trainer

The iC3 Basketball Shot Trainer is the perfect addition on any hoop.  It can aid in teaching new and developing basketball players how to shoot as well as keep the balls within the game area. This return system allows players to increase their shooting percentage and improve their shot arc.

What Makes it Unique:

• The iC3 Basketball Shot Trainer puts a full net around your basketball hoop, forcing players to reach the perfect arch to get the ball within its insides.
• Once the ball falls within the net, it is dispersed back to the waiting player. 
• Owners say that setup is easy and takes no more than 30 minutes

Why Choose This Basketball Return System:

• This basketball return system helps to increase muscle memory.  The more times players shoot into the basket, the better they will be able to shoot when the net is not up.  
• Though the system may look large, it can store away neatly and taking up minimal space. 
• This iC3 Basketball Shot Trainer works on poles that are 65inches and under. 
• With this system, players can make at least 500 shots in one hour.  This drastically reduces the time spent chasing balls down the court or the driveway, as they are returned directly to the player.

---

FAQ on Basketball Return Systems

Basketball Return Systems can be a great addition to any basketball camp or basketball development program.  Having an extensive or professional-grade system can aid teams in practicing together, completing drills, and just honing in on their basketball skills.   Having these systems in place can be a big help in a variety of scenarios. This area is aimed at answering the most frequent questions asked concerning basketball return systems.

When Should You Get a Basketball Return System?

You should get a basketball return system when you are ready to take your game to the next level.  If you are looking to get serious about your game and you frequently practice solo, it may be time to get a basketball return system.  A basketball hoop return can be extremely beneficial when playing outside. If you are living in a residential area, a basketball return net could be highly helpful for keeping balls from hitting other houses, cars, and rolling into your neighbor’s yard.

If you are a basketball coach looking to maximize your team’s performance and shooting ability, It may also be time to buy a basketball return system.  Each time a ball is shot, the ball comes directly back to you.

Why Should You Get a Basketball Return System?

Basketball return systems are not for everyone. If you are an occasional player or sometimes your students, play basketball games in gym class, having a basketball return chute or net is not needed. However, if you are the coach of a basketball team and your students often spend time wasting time chasing balls around the gym. A basketball return system could be a great aid.

 No matter your price point, there are several options available to you in the form of basketball rebounding machines or basketball rebound nets.  Basketball ball return systems are great to use for competitive basketball players as well as lower-level athletes. These are an excellent resource for coaches as they allow more work to be done in a limited amount of time. 

Do Basketball Return Systems Help Your Shooting?

A basketball return systems allow players to shoot far more than they would if one was not used.  They work great for improving your shooting skills as more time can be allocated to shooting and practicing.  The basketball system itself will not improve your game; you still have to do the work; however, more of your time can be allocated to work with the use of the system. If you want to develop your shooting skills and looking to find the best gear, then our post on the best shooting machines can also help.

What are Important Things to Consider When Choosing a Basketball Return System?

When choosing a basketball return system, there are a number of things you must consider.  You can’t simply close your eyes and pick one out of a hat. You will need to not only assess your needs or the needs of your organization; you will need to know what to look for.

One of the main things to think about when considering a basketball return system is what type you are looking for.  These systems come in a variety of forms and styles. These include chutes that can be hooked to nets, ball return nets, or plastic ball returns, which are fastened to the hoop.  Automatic ball returns can also be a good alternative if you are looking for something with a little more power.

The environment or area that the return system will be placed is also a significant factor in the type that you should buy.  Chances are if your hoop is directly in front of a wall, you will not need a net system to retrieve the balls as they can simply bounce off of the wall. A net system is more so needed for neighborhoods and outdoor areas where objects behind your hoop can be harmed, or balls can be lost. 

How to Choose the Best Basketball Return Systems for You

Choosing the perfect basketball return system is not an easy task.  You should not merely open a magazine and pick one. Before choosing which basketball hoop return is correct for you, your home, and your organization, you must take into account several variables that could make or break your installation of basketball return chute. There are many questions you should ask yourself.  These questions are listed below, and knowing the answers to them before you begin your search is essential.

What style works best for me?  

If you have even begun to glance at the options for basketball return systems, you would have seen that there are several styles and varieties available. It’s okay, don’t get overwhelmed. We have listed the various styles below as well as providing some vital information about each one.

Return Chutes – Return shoots are generally attached to the bottom of the net.  They can be automatic or manual. With a return chute, the ball is funneled through the chute and sent back to the player. One downside of this style is that the ball will only return to the player if the shot was made. However, this does give players added incentive to make their shots ore less. They will still be stuck chasing balls.

Yard Guard – A yard guard net is ideal for homes. It is primarily used to protect your home’s landscape or the surrounding area.  Though this is considered a basketball return system, it does not stop you from having to go get the ball, nor does it return the ball to you.  This style simply covers the area behind the basket so that the ball does not go past the hoop. However, balls can still be thrown over the hoop.

Return Net – A return net is simply just what the name entails. It dangles from the bottom of the basketball net and is anchored down by sandbags or weights. This type of return system can collect a number of different shots. They have a wide coverage area and are meant to cover large spaces.

How much am I looking to spend?

Knowing how much you are looking to spend is essential in determining what kind of basketball return system is available to you.  If you are only looking to spend under $100, there is a pretty good chance you will not be getting an automatic return system. Determining your budget early will force you to adjust your perspective and understand the options you have verses the idea of starting high or expensive and narrowing it down.

Should my system be mechanical or manual?

There are many manual and mechanical options when it comes to ball return systems.  If you are a casual player or you don’t see a need for a mechanical ball return system, do not feel obligated to purchase one.  Simple ball return system’s like Spalding’s system makes it easy to simply install and play at any given moment with their one-pound plastic ball return.   

What material should my accessory be made of?

The material that your basketball feature system is made of will make or break the durability for the item.  Items generally made of steel will last longer than plastic. If you are purchasing a net, it is highly likely that if the net is made of cheap material or is being held together with plastic, it will not last as long as a durable nylon and metal item. You should make sure that the thing is sturdy enough for your needs.  If you are looking for a temporary quick use item that you know, you will not often use this is not as important. However, if you are looking for something with extended longevity, you will want to examine what the item is made of.

Will this item need to be stored? 

Storage is one thing you should think about when purchasing a basketball return system.  If you are buying something large and bulky, you should make sure that you have ample storage space to accommodate it if it is not exposed at all times. Removability should also be simple if you plan on consistently removing the item.  Storage and accessibility are essential based on who will be continuously installing the item. If you plan to move around a lot with this return system, it may be necessary to get portable one. You do not want to continuously have to create a nylon masterpiece as well as climb to the top of your rim with a ladder each time you take the item on or off.  

What Style of hoop do I have?

It’s essential also to remember that not all return systems will work with your style of the basketball hoop. Once you have made a decision on which return system you have chosen, you will need to ensure that your hoop is compatible with the method you want.  Some items may not adhere to your style of the backboard or work with your hoop style. This is always determined on the respective item as it is not the same for all ball return mechanisms.

Summary of the Best Basketball Return Systems

To sum up, here are the best basketball return systems we looked at today:

Having a ball return system can be an extreme help. It not only allows players to double the shooting time as they do not spend wasted time and energy chasing balls down the court, but It also restricts balls to a specific area.  There are several options you can choose from when deciding on a basketball return system. These types include nets, chutes, and large yard screens.

Each of these types serves a different purpose and can be useful in a variety of scenarios. Some may be more helpful for residential neighborhoods, whereas others may be more helpful schools or basketball camps.

If you are looking for a cheap alternative, Spalding Back Atcha Ball Return Training Aid is a great economical option that can be easily installed or removed. Whereas return systems like the iC3 basketball shot trainer  allow athletes the ability to control where their balls land and perfect their shooting form.  These are simply two of the many varieties that are available to you.  

Aside from providing you with the best basketball return systems, you should have also learned how to choose the one that is best for you. Before committing to a system, you will need to ensure that it not only fits in your price range but that it fits your environment and needs. You want to make sure that if you are investing in a system, it will be useful and not more hassle than it’s worth.

All in all, use the tips and information we gave you to make an informed decision about a basketball return system you would like to buy.  Though it doesn’t have to be on this list, make sure that it is suitable for you. 

If you found this post helpful, check out our other basketball gear reviews here.

> Best Portable Basketball Hoops

> Best Basketball Arcade Games

> Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers

> Best Indoor Basketballs 

> Best Basketball Nets