Getting Started

So my kid kept nagging about wanting a basketball hoop in the backyard. I figured why not go all-in and build a proper half-court? Sounded simple enough till I actually looked into it. First thing I did was measure my backyard space. Needed at least 30×20 feet for decent play area. Went outside with measuring tape – realized part of the lawn slopes downhill. Already knew I’d need ground leveling before anything.

Cost Hunting Phase

Started calling local installers. First quote made my eyes water: $25,000! Nearly choked on my coffee. Broke down like this:

• Concrete slab: $8k-$12k depending on thickness
• Asphalt option: Cheaper at $5k but cracks faster
• Actual sport tiles: Another $10k+ for that plastic snap-together stuff
• Hoops & accessories: $1.5k minimum for decent gear

Pro tip: Never trust internet estimates saying “$5k-$10k for backyard court.” Those are from pre-pandemic times or fairy tales.

DIY Temptation and Reality Check

Watched YouTube tutorials convincing me I could pour concrete myself. Bought quickrete bags – barely covered 4 square feet before my back gave out. Hired two neighborhood teens to dig the foundation. Paid ’em $15/hour each. By day 3 they quit saying “this sucks worse than McDonald’s.” Lesson learned: pros charge $3-$6 per square foot for labor cause this work HURTS.

Permit Surprise

Almost forgot about city regulations! Building department wanted $350 permit fee plus stamped engineering plans. My “simple” court now needed drainage plans so it doesn’t flood the neighbor’s yard. Added another $2k for stormwater system. Inspector showed up twice mid-project drinking my coffee both times.

The Final Damage

After six weeks of headaches:

• Materials: $11,200 (went with 4-inch concrete + basic tiles)
• Labor: $7,800 (crew of 3 for 10 days)
• Invisible costs: $3,150 (permits, equipment rental, 47 trips to Home Depot)

Grand Total: $22,150. My kid played for three days straight then asked for skate ramps. Now I gotta explain why we’re eating ramen till Christmas. Worth it? Ask me when he’s in the NBA.