Harlem’s Rucker Park is often referred to as the Mecca of Basketball, and in 2021, it’s coming back in a big way.

Harlem’s Rucker Park is often referred to as the Mecca of Basketball, and in 2021, it’s coming back in a big way.

The History of the Entertainers Basketball Classic

The Entertainers Basketball Classic was established in 1981 after Greg Marius and his hip hop group The Disco Four competed in a basketball game against a group of locals looking to break into the music scene.

Since then, the EBC has garnered a reputation for exciting games featuring celebrity guests like Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Allen Iverson, and more. Fans from all over the world flock to 155th Street and Frederick Douglass Boulevard to watch the games go down.

Harlem History: Rucker Park

Rucker Park was originally opened in 1956 as the PS 156 Playground. Holcombe Rucker, an influential Harlem School Teacher and the playground director for the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation from 1948 to 1964, saw the greater potential for the playground. Mr. Rucker organized a basketball tournament for players in the Harlem community as a way to promote education and strengthen bonds among its residents. The tournament he founded went on to become the NYC Pro-Am basketball tournament that began the park’s journey to world recognition.

Busta Finale — Credit: Courtesy of Rolling Stone

GloRillaBustaConversation — Credit: Courtesy of Rolling Stone

Doechii Performin — Credit: Courtesy of Rolling Stone

GloRilla — Credit: Courtesy of Rolling Stone

Busta Rhymes — Credit: Courtesy of Rolling Stone

EBC 2021 in Rucker Park

Like a lot of important events all around the globe, the Entertainers Basketball Classic was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But it’s making a comeback in 2021.

According to Gothamist, “The Entertainers Basketball Classic will run every night through August 13th, from Monday to Thursday. Entrance is free and newcomers are encouraged.”

Whether you’re stepping out on that court or just cheering from the bleachers, you won’t want to miss the action this year – 2021 is going to be a great one!

Make Some Moves with HarlemAmerica

The EBC draws celebrities and change-makers from lots of industries – music, entertainment, sports, even game announcers. Are you ready to share your voice with Harlem and the rest of the world? Check out our website to learn more about our small business membership packages.