McCoy Park’s basketball courts get a refresh in North Portland

A partnership between Portland Parks & Recreation, Nike, and the Portland Trail Blazers is revitalizing basketball courts across the city

Kids playing basketball on a new basketball court at McCoy Park in North Portland

You can’t beat the hometown squad’s colors.

Photo via Portland Trail Blazers/PP&R

The basketball courts at McCoy Park are looking so fresh and so clean thanks to a team up between Portland Parks & Recreation, Nike, and the Portland Trail Blazers.

Through this partnership — dreamed up by the late, former Parks Commissioner Nick Fish — the playing area was resurfaced and given freshly painted lines, with upgrades made to the hoops as well.

“These courts provide opportunities for children and families to live, learn, and play within their own neighborhoods,” said Ashley Clinkscale, EVP + Chief Communications and Impact Officer for the Portland Trail Blazers and the Rose Quarter. “We have focused our resources in disadvantaged communities that need us the most, realizing that we can have an impact on many lives and communities.”

Two kids pose with brand new backpack and basketballs from the Portland Trail Blazers

Pick-up games and supplies before heading back to school.

Photo via Portland Trail Blazers/PP&R

Other courts that have already been revitalized include those at Parklane, Argay, Trenton, McKenna, Harney, King School, and Raymond parks.

Basketball roots run deep in Rip City. This latest effort is a testament to the success of the Portland Basketball Courts Revitalization Project, funded by $750,000 from the Oregon-born apparel giant + $300,000 from the NBA franchise.

To celebrate, representatives from all three organizations recently invited local kids to McCoy Park for a day of music, games, giveaways, and special visits from Trail Blazers players Anfernee Simons, Gary Payton II, Keon Johnson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Jabari Walker — plus Blaze the Trail Cat.

The next play? Crews will begin work on the courts at Dawson Park, where fences have already been installed. Although the facilities will be closed for about a month to install and paint the new asphalt surface (weather permitting), they’re expected to reopen the week of Mon., Sept. 26.

If you have a kid who’s ready to make it rain three pointers, check out PP&R’s Goldenball Youth Basketball, which recognizes its 85th season in 2022.