The term 'HOOP'S OUTER EDGE' is composed of two crossword solutions: ALE (3 letters) and RIM (3 letters). ALE is an abbreviation for Alcohol by Volume, which is a measure of the amount of alcohol in a given volume of liquid. RIM is the outer edge of a hoop, such as a basketball hoop, which is used to score points in the game. Together, ALE and RIM form the phrase 'HOOP'S OUTER EDGE', which refers to the outer edge of a hoop, such as a basketball hoop.