above the rim

prepositional phrase2

1. •
   [handing the ball] higher than the rim of the basket (such as during a slam dunk or alley oop)

   • Basketball went from a game of set shots and long jumpers to a game played above the rim, characterized by earth-shattering dunks. — 2003
2. •
   (US, figurative) at a high level of excellence

   • I believe in playing above the rim on the court, and in my career. — 1995