New York City Basketball History and Hoops

New York City has a rich and storied history in basketball. From its early adoption of the sport to the rise of iconic teams and players, basketball has become deeply ingrained in the city's sports culture. The city's passion for the game is evident in its streetball culture, professional and collegiate teams, and the numerous basketball initiatives that continue to thrive in every corner of the city.
Come explore the history of basketball in NYC, see historical sights like MSG, Rucker Park & the 4th Street Cages. We finish our tour at beautiful Brooklyn Bridge Park. I will bring a basketball incase we are able to shoot some hoops at our stops! As a professional NYC tour guide with a passion for basketball, I aim to take you on an all day journey of learning and seeing first hand NYC's love and passion for the sport.

Please note before booking: this tour involves walking and getting on the subway 3 times.

Meeting Point

James A. Farley Building

421 8th Ave, New York, NY 10199, USA

We will meet at the steps of the James A Farley US Post Office - 8th Ave and 33rd St (Across from Madison Square Garden).
- Uber/Lyft: James A Farley Building, 421 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001

- Cab: tell the driver "8th Avenue and 33rd Street"

- Subway: A, C, E Train to "34th St - Penn Station"

What to expect:

Duration: 3 hours

Madison Square Garden

4 Penn Plaza, , New York City, 10001, New York

Madison Square Garden, often referred to as MSG, is a world-renowned sports and entertainment arena. It has a rich history and is considered one of the most iconic venues in the world. It is the home arena for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and has also hosted notable events such as the NBA All-Star Game.
Here we will begin the story of the history of basketball in NYC along with some other historical information about the legendary stadium!

This will also include a 30-40 min subway trip to our next destination, Rucker Park.

30 minutes

Holcombe Rucker Park

280 W 155th St, New York City, 10039-1300, New York

Rucker Park, located in Harlem, is a legendary outdoor basketball court that holds a special place in the history of streetball and urban basketball culture. Since its establishment in the 1950s, Rucker Park has become synonymous with the raw, energetic style of street basketball and has attracted some of the best players from the city and beyond. The park has witnessed legendary players such as Julius Erving, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James gracing its asphalt court, earning it a reputation as a breeding ground for future stars. With its legendary tournaments and the caliber of players it has hosted, Rucker Park has become an emblem of the vibrant basketball scene in Harlem and a symbol of the spirit of the community.
We can attempt to play or shoot some hoops here based on court availability.

This will also include a 30-40 min subway ride to our next destination, West 4th Street Courts.

1 hour

West 4th Street Courts

272 6th Ave, New York, NY 10012, USA

The West 4th Cages, or The Cage, is an iconic outdoor basketball court in Greenwich Village, known for its intense competition and as a gathering place for basketball enthusiasts. With its challenging design and storied history, it embodies the spirit of New York City streetball culture and holds a special place in the hearts of players and fans alike.
We can attempt to play or shoot some hoops here based on court availability.

This will also include a 15-20 min subway ride to our next step, Brooklyn Bridge Park.

40 minutes

Brooklyn Bridge Park Basketball Courts

150 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA

Brooklyn Bridge Park Basketball Courts, located in the scenic Brooklyn Bridge Park along the East River, offer a picturesque setting for basketball enthusiasts to enjoy the sport while taking in stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
We can attempt to play or shoot some hoops here based on court availability.

40 minutes

What's included:

• Basketball (Playing at the courts will be based on availability)
• Professional Tour Guide

Not included:

• Please bring water
• Subway Fare (Client will need to pay for 3 subway rides - $8.70)