Go to the hoop.

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Back when we were kids, in order to play "driveway" basketball, our fathers would have to get a post digger, cement a 12'-long 4 x 4 into the ground, cut out a wooden backboard, buy a metal rim and nylon net--and spend hours nailing and screwing the whole thing together. Meanwhile, we'd get tired of waiting around and would end up at the local playground, chucking up bombs at bent rims and rusty chain-link nets--that is, if there were any nets at all. That was then; this is now.

Thanks to modern technology, our kids don't have to watch Pop sweat up a storm while swearing under his breath, as there is an endless parade of portable basketball backboards and nets available. Huffy Sports, Sussex, Wis., hits nothing but net with an impressive lineup that includes the No Tools Required portable basketball system ($95.99); S-Pole adjustable Cobra ($149.99); and, for those whose "game needs a little lift"--get it?--the 74209 Gas Assist...