The Original Profender
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: March 9, 2012
Asking For:
$75,000 for 15%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
The Original Profender is a mobile training device for basketball that simulates a closeout defender, providing a realistic training experience for players.
WATCH HERE
IN A RUSH?
Click these to jump to the section you want to read.
Background Story
Tony Devine’s journey as a basketball coach led him to identify a crucial gap in training methodologies. While practicing with his son, he realized the absence of realistic defensive pressure during shooting drills. Motivated to address this issue, Devine swiftly developed a rough prototype, driven by his passion for basketball and his desire to improve training experiences for players of all levels.
The Product
The Original Profender is a portable device equipped with mechanisms that replicate the movements and challenges posed by a closeout defender. Its versatility allows it to be used in various settings, from professional basketball courts to home driveways.
Priced at $499.95 for the professional-grade version and $199 for a consumer-oriented retail version, it caters to both serious athletes and recreational players. The product is available for purchase online and through select retailers, offering convenience and accessibility to basketball enthusiasts nationwide.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
Original Profender has achieved $25,000 in sales within its first year of operation, primarily through direct selling efforts and partnerships with basketball organizations like USA Basketball. While the company has garnered initial traction within the basketball training industry, it faces challenges in penetrating the broader consumer market due to the premium pricing of its professional-grade model. However, Devine remains optimistic about the company’s potential for growth and is determined to overcome these obstacles.
The Negotiations:
Despite Devine’s compelling pitch and demonstration of the product’s capabilities, the Sharks express concerns about the market size and the high price point. Although Devine proposes the possibility of a more affordable $200 retail version to target a wider consumer base, the Sharks remain unconvinced about the scalability of the business. Despite leaving the tank empty-handed, Devine remains resilient in his commitment to revolutionizing basketball training with Original Profender.
