Solid foundation, easy to raise and lower, loads of fun to play on.

Great DIY experience due to the very clear instructions, videos and packaging of parts provided by Megaslam. Before purchasing the Megaslam system, I researched many similar fixed adjustable systems. As an engineer, materials durability and functional design were important to me. The Megaslam had the best material specifications and features and most importantly the best installation instructions. The video instructions left nothing to the imagination. After I built and set the 2"x4" form with stakes per the video, It took me about 3 hours to dig the 48" deep base pit using a shovel and hand-held post hole digger. The frame kept the hole dimensions true while digging and kept the area around the hole from collapsing. I used large pieces of cardboard from the backboard shipping box to protect the grass around the three sides of the hole next to the driveway. Ended up using 25 x 80lb bags of 4000lb concrete vs the 21 indicated in the instructions, since my pit flared out gradually instead of just at the bottom. Mixed two bags at a time in a large portable mixer rented from Home Depot for $48 and finished pouring in 2.5 hours, so only rented for 4 hours. Setting of the rebar and mounting plate and "J" bolts went in easily due to clear instructions for the kit. Was easy to level the base plate since the 2"x4" form was level and provided a great guide for screeding (leveling) the concrete. I let the concrete set for a week, covered with a plastic sheet to keep the moisture in for a hard surface. Most importantly, had the grandkids put their names and handprints in the base before dry. Setting the main post to the base plate was easy. I put the base on a large 12" diameter log next to the concrete base, using it as a fulcrum and tipped the pole up and onto the mounting bolts without damaging the threads. Since the `base plate was level per the instructions, using a torpedo level, the pole was spot-on plumb per my 4' level. Assembly of the rest of the parts was easy due to the clear packaging and numbering/lettering of the parts. Megaslam provided labeled shrink-wrapped nuts and bolts instead of a bag of nuts and bolts like most other DIY kits. Very clear and easy to pair the hardware with the backboard and leveling system parts. I am lucky to have a 12 foot tall commercial scaffold kit. I used this to lift the backboard into place. I set the backboard mounting arm to the 5.5 ft lowest level and I used a 2000lb ratchet and pully arrangement connected to the top-end of the scaffold which was set just next to the backboard mounting arm. I attached the lifting hook of the ratchet cable to two 4000 lb climbing slings on the top backboard brackets with locking carabiners to lift the backboard into place. I felt this was much safer than having 2, 3 or 4 of my strongest friends do the lifting. I did the whole installation by myself in about three hours. Grandkids and I are enjoying this hoop at the various adjustable levels. Kids love to crank it up and down, and I like the removeable handle feature. Very happy I went this route instead of a portable system due to the ease of installation and very solid construction. Will be great fun for many years!

I was a bit concerned about having to dig a 20 in x 20 in by 48 in deep hole but this hoop definitely requires a sturdy base. I wouldnt say its difficult to install but it definitely takes some sweat equity and time. (We installed on our own). The pole and backboard are quite heavy. I played on a Goalrilla throughout my childhood and this goal is far more sturdy and durable than what I played on years ago. I am completely satisfied and tested the rim thoroughly, 200lbs hanging on it for 10-20 seconds and no issues whatsoever. We will definitely test this goal over the years!