Historic North Minneapolis Basketball Court Refurbished As Part Of Final Four Legacy Project
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The NCAA Final Four is already delivering in North Minneapolis.
The NCAA and the local organizing committee unveiled Tuesday a refurbished basketball court at North Commons Park Community Center.
The revitalized gym features a new floor, hoops and artwork. The renovations were done over the last two months, courtesy of the NCAA and its sponsor, Dove for Men.
It's all part of the Final Four Legacy Project.
Among those at an unveiling party Tuesday was Devean George, a former NBA star who grew up in North Minneapolis.
"This is more than just a gym," he told the dozens of people who attended the gym unveiling. "This is a safe haven for a lot of people in the community."
This new gym will be here for future generation. Its very presence is a celebration of basketball history in the Twin Cities. This is where the first basketball hoop was set up in a Minneapolis Park 111 years ago back in 1908.
For the last 29 years, Willie Jasper has worked here. In January, she was given the honor of cutting down the old nets and she and Devean George cut the ribbon.
"I can't tell you the words, but inside I am just bubbling with joy and happiness," she said.
As the pounding of the balls echoed, the celebration continued with a free clinic, young people learning skills for life both on and off the court.
The NCAA and their sponsor Dove for Men also renovated a computer room and an office at North Commons Park.
