The resilient polycarbonate fixture succumbed to structural fatigue after a decade of enduring errant tennis balls and entirely unearned step-back threes.
NAPERVILLE, Ill. — A Spalding 54-inch Polycarbonate Backboard, 15, died Monday of structural fatigue while waiting for local teenager Tyler Jenkins to successfully execute a left-handed layup.
Installed in 2011 above the Jenkins family carport, the hoop survived three collisions with a reversing Dodge Caravan and a decade of being pelted primarily by errant tennis balls. Over its distinguished tenure, it held the neighborhood record for most consecutive days anchoring a sagging holiday light display. Despite a shattered corner and a nylon net that dissolved in 2017, the fixture remained on duty until its rusted mounting brackets finally gave way during Tyler’s 400th attempt at a contested three-pointer from the sidewalk.
It stood steadfast through wind, snow, and Tyler’s absolute refusal to bend his knees before releasing the ball.
The hoop is survived by a waterlogged Wilson basketball trapped in the roof gutters, and a rusted inflation needle. Services will be held Thursday morning, coinciding with municipal bulk trash pickup.