What is the difference between a basketball goal and a basketball hoop?
Having access to a basketball hoop or basketball goal is critical for basketball players. When you start the process of looking into basketball equipment to purchase, it is important to note the terminology used most commonly when referring to the specific equipment. The two most common terms are: basketball hoop and basketball goal. You may have heard both terms used before when talking about the sport – a hoop or a goal. But is there a difference between a basketball goal and a basketball hoop? The short answer to this question is no. Technically there is not a difference between the two. However, the long answer is much more complex.
Most commonly, the terms are often used interchangeably depending on your geographical location or depending on what you have often heard others refer to it as. According to Google Search Trends, the southeast portion of the United States map is the general region to use the term ‘basketball goal’ most often. While other parts of the country often use the term ‘basketball hoop.’ However, this is not mutually exclusive, and most individuals use both terms. You may have seen on our Goalsetter Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages, that we tend to use the terms interchangeably.
The more complex part of the answer comes along when you dive into the details of the equipment or maybe talk with someone who works closely alongside a basketball goal or hoop. As mentioned before, Goalsetter does tend to use the terms interchangeably. However, you will find that in a lot of instances, when the equipment is being referred to as a whole basketball system, it is called a basketball goal. For the entire system that includes the hoop, net, and backboard, as well as the pole or support structure that holds everything in place. This is the complete system that you see on a basketball court or someone’s driveway that you may hear someone referring to as a basketball goal. On the other hand, it can be said that a basketball hoop is essentially the same thing, however the hoop is strictly the backboard, rim, and pole not set up as a system.
While the terms ‘basketball hoops’ and ‘basketball goals’ are often used interchangeably, it all comes down to an opinion-based answer on which term you prefer to use. There is no wrong answer on what to call the basketball system. Depending on where you are located, some sellers or everyday individuals might define a basketball hoop as just the ring and net, while defining basketball goal as the entire system. Regardless of which side of the terminology you tend to lean toward, one thing is for sure. Whether you prefer an in-ground, pro-level basketball hoop, a portable goal , or a wall mount to allow kids to extend their game – Goalsetter has exactly what you need. Get the best basketball hoops and/or basketball goals around today from Goalsetter!