On the morning of April 2, Eastlake Park welcomed the Final Four to Phoenix this week with a celebration of local history and community.
Members of the Eastlake Community Center in central Phoenix gathered to unveil a mural honoring pioneers of Eastlake history.
Intramural basketball stars sat awaiting their opportunity to play on the newly refurbished indoor and outdoor basketball courts provided to the community through the NCAA’s Legacy Project.
Each year, the NCAA collaborates with the city hosting the tournament to fund meaningful, long-lasting projects for the community.
“As we looked at our options, it was clear that the Eastlake Community Center was a special place,” said Bryn Davis Williams, representing Degree Deodorant, who sponsored this year’s legacy project.
Eastlake’s history is rich, stretching back to the 1890s when it soon emerged as a focal point for African American history.
Starting as a shady spot for people to sit while waiting for the next tram, it now hosts over 20,000 youth inside the gymnasium annually, along with another 8,000 people on the outside facilities.
Along with everyday activities, Eastlake hosts an annual Juneteenth celebration and is home to the Phoenix Arts Commission Civil Rights Memorial.
In addition to community members, local politicians and NCAA partners appeared at the event, including Governor Katie Hobbs and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.
“Eastlake is such an important part of the city of Phoenix,” said Gallego, who represented Eastlake from Jan. 2014 to Aug. 2018 during her time on the Phoenix City Council, “Today, we celebrate an amazing investment in Eastlake Park. I hope that will be a huge part of the legacy of the Final Four.”
Williams completed the official shredding of the net, followed by an inaugural game played by the intramural stars and, on good athletic form, Arizona State University mascot “Sparky.”
The indoor court features adjustable hoops and backboards, with a shot-clock scoreboard, as well as new bleachers, wall pads and a newly equipped weight room for any athlete to enjoy.
The outdoor court has fully refurbished floors, along with new backboards and hoops.
Outside, adults gathered to awe at the mural. The mural depicts figures close to many of their hearts as parents, grandparents, friends and family.
Some of the figures highlighted include Bishop Alexis A. Thomas, who spent his life serving in ministry and various community roles until his passing in 2018; Helen Mason, who worked with the City’s Parks Department to provide enriching opportunities to the youth; and many other important community figures.
Gallego is excited for the Eastlake community to continue celebrating in the refurbished space.
“This facility is used by people of all ages, and the kids love it. They have great performances here, great basketball, and so much more,” Gallego said.” “I know they are going to enjoy this for generations to come.”
