Horner Park’s brand‑new basketball courts have officially opened, offering Chicago’s North Side residents a fresh, Bulls‑inspired playing surface. The renovation, a partnership between the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Park District, includes vibrant artwork, fresh backboards and new nets, and has been praised by local players and officials alike.
Community excitement over the new courts
Veteran player George Sotos, 65, was thrilled to walk the courts for the first time, even with an ankle brace. “I didn’t think I would be getting that close,” he said, noting how easily he could reach the net. Other locals, such as Carson Hodges and Niko Stathis, echoed his enthusiasm, describing the courts as “well used” and a “huge win” for neighborhood youth.
Rims measured below regulation height
However, a quick measurement by the Horner Park Advisory Council revealed that the rims sit at roughly nine feet, about a foot lower than the standard ten‑foot regulation height. Council President Peter Schlossman confirmed the finding and said the Park District is reviewing the issue. A Bulls spokesperson acknowledged the discrepancy and said a second phase of the renovation, scheduled for later this month, will replace the poles and rims to bring them up to standard.
Bulls’ commitment to the community
The Bulls have a track record of refurbishing city courts, with five projects completed in the past five years across neighborhoods such as Cabrini, Little Village, Belmont Cragin and Burnside. The organization funded the entire Horner Park project before work began in mid‑August, according to Park District spokesperson Irene Tostado.
While the original press release highlighted the opening of the courts, it did not mention the pending rim adjustment. The Bulls had planned an inaugural open practice on Oct. 2, but rain forced a postponement and a new date has yet to be set. The event would have featured free basketball clinics for kids and a fan festival with Bulls‑themed activities.
Local officials praise the upgrade
Alderman Rossanna Rodriguez (33rd Ward) welcomed the refurbishment, calling it a “huge win” for the area’s youth. She also noted that the addition of lights in 2024—secured through participatory budgeting—has finally allowed evening play, addressing a long‑standing inequity she described as “unconscionable.”
Rodriguez emphasized that public spaces belong to everyone and should be protected, underscoring the broader community impact of the project.
Next steps
The Park District has indicated it will address the rim height in the upcoming renovation phase. In the meantime, players continue to enjoy the fresh surface, even as they adapt to the slightly lower nets.
Overall, the Horner Park courts represent a tangible example of how private‑public partnerships can revitalize neighborhood amenities, offering safe, attractive spaces for families and youth while the city works to fine‑tune the details.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
