September 7, 2016 – Hornets Sports & Entertainment announced today that the organization is partnering with the NBA, the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County on a Legacy Project that will bring a Hornets Experience to several neighborhood basketball courts, including Latta Park, Camp Greene Park and Tuckaseegee Park.
The first Hornets Experience upfit will take place at Latta Park and will include a customized Hornets-themed basketball court with four basketball goals and goal pads, eight benches, a water fountain and new waste and recycling receptacles, all in the well-known Hornets colors of purple and teal. The project will also include various beautification elements throughout the park.
“We are excited to bring the Hornets Experience to these three neighborhood courts in Charlotte,” said Hornets President & COO Fred Whitfield. “It is important to us to give back to the youth of our community, and we can think of no better way for them to show their love of both the Hornets and the game of basketball than by playing on Hornets-themed courts at their local parks. We also want to thank the NBA for demonstrating its continued commitment to Charlotte and Mecklenburg County by joining us in this effort.”
The new Hornets Experience will be unveiled at a dedication ceremony at Latta Park on Tuesday, October 18. Following the dedication, Hornets players and coaches will take part in a Jr. NBA Clinic with area kids on the new court.
“I appreciate the Hornets and the NBA giving back to the Charlotte community with these projects,” said Mayor Jennifer Roberts. “Growing up in Charlotte I loved playing outdoor basketball at Lansdowne Elementary and I am pleased these projects will provide a quality environment for kids throughout our city to be active and enjoy this great game!”
The courts at Camp Greene Park and Tuckaseegee Park will be refurbished during the 2016-17 NBA season.
“Outdoor recreation and athletics are very important to the health of our residents,“ said Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Director Jim Garges. “Thanks to the NBA and the Charlotte Hornets, we will be able to provide top notch basketball courts for residents across Mecklenburg County to enjoy.”
In recent years, the Hornets have conducted similar refurbishment projects at Hornets Nest Elementary School, the Stratford-Richardson YMCA and the Hornets-themed Teen Room at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital.