Indy Parks Reports Surge in Basketball Court Usage After Pacers Renovation

INDIANAPOLIS — In an exciting collaboration, the Pacers and Indy Parks have renovated basketball courts across Indianapolis, with the latest enhancement now showcased on the city's east side.

Wes Montgomery Park, located off 34th Street, boasts what Indy Parks describes as their finest outdoor court.

"It's one of a kind in our park system; we don't have anything like this. It's got two full-size courts and two half-courts. There's a covered roof pavilion and lights installed. It's going to be perfect for everything from pickup games to organized tournaments and events,"

The $2.7 million renovation was driven by requests from local residents.

Jon Williams, a nearby resident, expressed his enthusiasm for the new arena-like court.

"It boosts the morale. I'm proud to be standing here to see it,"

This newly upgraded court is not the only one turning heads; visitors Clint and Brooks Beasley were immediately drawn to the vibrant paint job at another court located at Fall Creek and 30th.

"I was like, 'We have to go play on this. It looks absolutely sick. We just got to go,'" said Brooks.

A casual one-on-one session quickly became a lively event as drivers honked in support during their game.

"It's great seeing people honk every time I make it. It's fantastic to play on," said Brooks.

"It's incredible. I mean, I don't know how you get any better than this," said Clint.

Clint channeled his favorite player, Tyrese Haliburton, while playing on the renovated courts:

"It feels like you're actually playing for the Pacers on the court."

In June, Haliburton expressed his hope that these renovations would motivate young players:

"It means everything. For me, you always wanted to go to the newest one, the court that looked the nicest, and I hope this inspires kids to get out,” said Haliburton.

Since these upgrades were completed, Indy Parks has reported a significant rise in basketball enthusiasts utilizing these courts—over 22,000 users at Frederick Douglass Park Family Center alone since its opening six months ago.

"At Frederick Douglass Park Family Center… we've already had more than 22,000 basketball court users," said Cortwright.

Local residents view these enhancements as a tremendous benefit for their community:

"People want to be healthy; they just need resources to do it... It provides a safe haven for us to communicate, collaborate, and gather together," said DeLorean Major.

Younger players aged 13 to 15 will also have opportunities through city-wide leagues held at these revamped facilities.

The official unveiling of Wes Montgomery Park is scheduled for Tuesday at 11 a.m.