Best Indoor Basketball Courts In Los Angeles
Given the basketball history in the greater Los Angeles area, it should not come as a huge surprise that many locals love their hoops action. With all the success the Los Angeles Lakers have had since arriving from Minnesota during the 1960 offseason, the area has had a love affair with the game of basketball. When you have had the opportunity to witness the likes of Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, James Worthy, Kobe Bryant, Shaq and countless others, you get a little spoiled. It is safe to say that you also get the urge from time to time to go shoot some hoops of your own. With that in mind, check out some of these indoor facilities so you can go get your game on:
Los Angeles Athletic Club
431 W 7th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90014
(213) 625-2211
laac.com/athletics/basketball
If you want to play some basketball and make some new friends at the same time, you've come to the right place. Attendees can take part in basketball conditioning classes that challenge the newcomer and expert alike, and there's one-on-one basketball training with an experienced staff. As for upcoming dates, Feb. 28 offers a youth basketball camp, May 12 starts the summer basketball league, and June 12 offers a Father's Day basketball camp. For the novice looking to get some basketball skills under their belt, there is a Saturday morning basketball conditioning class that moves things to a more advanced level, putting additional emphasis on footwork, advanced ball handling drills, dribbling, passing and shooting with the weak hand, shooting with range and introductory one-on-one scoring moves.The Saturday sessions run from 10am to 11:30 a.m.
Hollywood Wilshire YMCA
1553 Schrader Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 467-4161
www.ymcala.org
While Hollywood may seem all glitz and glamour, there is plenty to do for those with some basketball desires. Along with a sizable indoor basketball court, visitors can enjoy plenty of activities for both adults and youth. For the latter, there is youth basketball program; basketball leagues run year-round and are open to both boys and girls. Every child participates in every game and receives equal playing time, regardless of skill level. When it comes to family time, there are plenty of activities for both the adult and the young ones to participate in. The adults can partake in basketball leagues (men and women), allowing them to stay active and make some new friends along the way. Games are made up of two 20-minute halves with a three-minute intermission. Each team is guaranteed to see action in seven games (one game per week) with playoffs for the top teams at the end of the season.
Equinox
1835 S. Sepulveda Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 473-1447
www.equinox.com
When it comes to getting in a good workout, look no further than this venue. With a full basketball court, members can play at their own rate, be they novices or long-time hoops junkies. If you're worried about not finding some guys or gals to go up against, don't fret. The facility has pick-up games available on a regular basis. If you need a break from playing hoops, members can enjoy a wide-range of athletic training options, not to mention Pilates, weights, a pool and a spa. For the athletic training and classes available, members can take part in everything from a boxing workout to a detailed cycling regimen. Equinox personal trainers vary from level from Tier 1 to 4, based on experience and education. Each tier offers members some of the industry's most talented and committed trainers, so you know you will go home satisfied.
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YMCA Of Metropolitan
401 S. Hope St.
Los Angeles, CA 90071
(213) 624-2348
www.ymcala.org
If you are feeling the need for some basketball action, you've come to the right place. Hoops lovers young and old can enjoy getting their game on, typically leaving them wanting to come back for more. For kids, youth basketball is open to both boys and girls (age range differs from branch to branch), with year-round leagues and programs. For adults, men and women can dribble their way to better health and make new friends at the same time. If you're in search of game action, you get a pair of 20-minute halves with a three-minute intermission. Each team is set to play seven games (one game per week) with playoffs for the top teams when the season winds down. The action is open to members and guests 18 and older.
John Wooden Center
221 Westwood Plaza
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 206-8307
www.recreation.ucla.edu/jwc
You can't be a basketball lover in Los Angeles and not know the name John Wooden. Considered by many to be the greatest college basketball coach the sports world has seen, the late Wooden won 10 national men's basketball championships at UCLA. Revered around the Westwood campus, Wooden has his name for all to see at this facility. Basketball players coming to the Wooden Center can enjoy three basketball courts, allowing for plenty of opportunities for some hardwood action. When done shooting hoops, attendees can enjoy many other athletic options, including volleyball, badminton and gymnastics. There is also a strength and conditioning zone for those looking to hit the weights, cardio equipment, stationary bikes, treadmills and much more. For kids, the UCLA Recreation Youth Programs offers an array of summer camps in grades K–12. Located at UCLA, the camps focus on each child's needs and personal development within a group setting.
Whether you're in search of playing some hoops or just kicking back and watching others play a game so many millions love, Los Angeles proves to be a slam dunk.
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Dave Thomas has been covering the sports world since his first job as a sports editor for a weekly newspaper in Pennsylvania back in 1989. He has covered a Super Bowl, college bowl games, MLB, NBA and more. His work can be found on Examiner.com
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