Possible Clues:

• Rim holder
• Support for a basket ... or what combines with either word in each starred clue's answer?
• Hoop holder, and a hint to the first four letters of each asterisked answer
• Support company leaders in panel
• Endorse senior business group offering rigid product
• It's behind a hoop
• Object on a basketball court
• Paper ___ (directors at a publishing house?)
• Player defending bosses, offering a form of support