By Okon Ekpenyong

The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department initiated Late Night Hoops in March 2025, continuing until May 2025. This initiative aims to uphold its commitment to providing more programs and resources to keep youth and young adults safe during high-risk hours through the sport of basketball.

Since its launch, the program has served as a valuable outlet for youngsters, fostering a welcoming setting to connect with mentors who sincerely care about their welfare. Consequently, the crime rate in areas surrounding the Marion Franklin and Milo Grogan Community Centers is declining. Across the nation, many parks and recreation agencies have also adopted this initiative.

“Columbus Recreation and Parks offers a variety of exciting activities, but many people remain unaware of them. We must change this by promoting these opportunities so more individuals can participate and enjoy them,” commented a Columbus resident.

Once the program concludes in May, Late Night Basketball will kick off for the summer, continuing an annual tradition since 1999. This program also helps young individuals develop positive relationships with trusted mentors while reminding the public that there is always something happening at each Columbus Parks & Recreation venue to keep the community involved.

Sports like basketball are vital outlets for many young people, preventing them from getting into trouble while teaching essential life skills such as teamwork and self-discipline. Regardless of whether a player aims for a professional sports career, the bonds formed through the shared passion for the game often lead to opportunities across various fields due to efficient networking. This is why Columbus Recreation and Parks have recognized the impact of late-night hoops and late-night basketball since its inception.

The organizers aim to expand the Late Night Hoops program in the future, but it takes place at the Marion Franklin Community Center every Tuesday and at the Milo Grogan Community Center on Thursdays from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m. The sessions cater to different age brackets and skill levels, with designated time slots for participants aged 12-15, 16-18, and 19-30.

Tuesdays

Marion Franklin Community Center

2801 Lockbourne Road | 43207

6–8 p.m.: Ages 12-15

8-10 p.m.: Ages 16-18

10-11 p.m.: Ages 19-30

Thursdays

Milo Grogan Community Center

862 E. 2nd Ave. | 43201

6–8 p.m.: Ages 12-15

8-10 p.m.: Ages 16-18

10-11 p.m.: Ages 19-30

The Late Night Hoops program also highlights the significance of mental health and well-being by collaborating with outside organizations to tackle social issues and promote mental health awareness. Participants also have the chance to learn about other community service opportunities and receive assistance from staff and community leaders.

Here’s how to get involved:

“Registration is free; anyone can dribble, shoot, score, and repeat,” states Columbus Recreation and Parks. It is also a free, open gym, providing youth with a secure space to engage with the community and discover the exciting offerings of the local community center.

National Support:

Several NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Clippers and Charlotte Hornets, endorse and promote Late Night Hoops, as stated on the NBA website, as part of their community outreach efforts. Additionally, the Cleveland Cavaliers host “Hoops After Dark” as part of a summer league program for young men, emphasizing personal development, workshops, and life lessons alongside basketball.

Summer Late Night Basketball:

The annual Late Night Basketball organized by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department will return this summer from June 9 to August 1 in collaboration with the Columbus Division of Police and Fire. The program will be held at different locations, including:

Monday: Blackburn & Far East Park

Tuesday: Dodge & Milo Grogan Park

Wednesday: Driving Park & Glenwood Park

Thursday: Thompson & Woodward Park

Friday: Linden & Marion Franklin Park

Age groups and timing:

Ages 12-15: 6-8 p.m

Ages 16-18: 8-10 p.m

Ages 19-30: 10-11 p.m

“The schedule is based on participation,” the website indicates.

Late Night Hoops and Late Night Basketball offer a safe and supportive atmosphere for local youth to engage in positive activities, cultivate relationships, and acquire beneficial life skills.

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