Hoop dreams

<strong>Fletcher-Murphy Park</strong> on Wall Street is very similar, housing the same style rims and backboards as most other courts in town. The low fencing around the courts makes it tough to keep balls from bouncing in the road.<br /> 

<strong>Garrison Park</strong> on Hutchins Street has two side-by-side courts, a tall fence, plus adjacent parking and swimming pool! Pretty much perfect, although the courts are a little short from end to end.

<strong>West Street Playground</strong> is a solid place to play. While the court does suffer from some of the usual pitfalls of an outdoor court, such as double rims and stiff backboards, the playing surface was maintained nicely.

<strong>Memorial Field</strong> on South Fruit Street boasts two full-length courts with high fences as well as on-site running water, which is crucial. The only downside is there is little shade to be found when you want to take a time out.

<strong>Thompson Playlot</strong>, at the corner of Short and North Spring streets, has double rims and stiff backboards, as well as a short fence that balls love hopping. It’s also generally covered in chalk drawings, dirt and sticks – byproducts of the many small children who play non-basketball games on the court.

<strong>White Park</strong> is truly a tale of two hoops. On one side, you have a perfect basket: a normal rim with a square metal backboard, a great shade tree and a nice view of the fountain. On the other side, a bent double rim next to an eroding hillside that actively deposits large quantites of sand onto the court.

<strong>Keach Park</strong>, on Newton Avenue, appears to be the top spot for outdoor hoops. Perfect rims and backboards, smooth playing surface, and well-attended by potential pickup players.

<strong>Rollins Park</strong>, off of Broadway, is a great place to go if you want to try and dunk. Unfortunately, we say that because one of the rims is noticeably lower than the standard 10 feet. Also, the backboards are made of plywood. Not ideal.