Sixers Youth Foundation Renovates First Basketball Court in Wilmington

Sixers Youth Foundation Renovates First Basketball Court in Wilmington

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Local children in Wilmington, Delaware, now have a revamped place to play following a basketball court makeover led by the Sixers Youth Foundation. The renovation, located at the park at 30th and Madison streets, was celebrated with a community event featuring basketball clinics, a DJ, and a drum line.

The project marks the first court renovated by the foundation in Delaware, though it is the 15th such project overall for the organization. Wilmington also serves as the home for the Delaware Blue Coats, the G League affiliate of the Philadelphia 76ers.

Sixers Youth Foundation donate new basketball court in Wilmington

Residents and Mayor Praise the Finished Court

Residents who observed the construction over several months described the finished court as a significant improvement. Pastor Ronald Hayes, a neighbor of the park, stated,

“It turned out well because it was ugly before it really turned out well.”

adding that he thinks the result is “awesome.” Hayes said, I watched them doing this the last few months and I think it’s awesome,

Wilmington Mayor John Carney attended the celebration and noted that while he played basketball at the park during his own childhood, the court has never looked as good as it does now. Carney described the Sixers’ involvement as “really really special.” He said, Having the Sixers involved? This is awesome particularly this year with the Sixers and LeBron and all it’s really really special,

Regional Investment Goals

The Sixers Youth Foundation views the makeover as part of a larger effort to invest in regional communities. Leslie Walker of the foundation said the foundation must provide grant dollars to regional areas that need the funds for children.

Community leaders and parents expressed hope that the renovated space will continue to serve as a safe and welcoming environment for neighborhood youth. Children used the court during the celebration event.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC Philadelphia.

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