The top-five basketball courts for London ballers this summer

The buzz around British basketball shows no signs of slowing down in the offseason this summer, as 14% of Brits aged 18-34 are playing every week, placing basketball as the second most popular team sport among young people in the UK after football. These numbers come as no surprise, as exclusive data commissioned by the Lions found that 26% of Brits think basketball is a cool sport and would like to play it more.

To ensure the final whistle doesn’t blow on British basketball over the summer months, the London Lions have compiled their top five courts across London for aspiring ballers to let their inner Jordanand Curry out, making the most of the long summer evenings to improve their game—ready to hit the ground running for the 2023/24 season and, who knows, one day proudly don the iconic London Lions jersey.

Alvaro Barrington’s community basketball court

Serpentine Galleries, Kensington Gardens, London W2 3XA

Serpentine, The London Lions Basketball Club and artist Alvaro Barrington came together in partnership with CONSUL, Tower Hamlets Council and Weavers Adventure Playground in Bethnal Green to create a unique basketball court for the surrounding community and beyond. Its vibrant colours and bustling backdrop make it one of London’s best spots to play basketball this summer.

According to research from The Trust For London, Tower Hamlets is London’s worst-hit borough in terms of child poverty; the court aims to provide a vibrant and free space for kids to play whilst bringing people together from all walks of life for a celebration of sport, art and community.

The court is free and open for all to use.

Ravenscourt Park, West London
Paddenswick Rd, London W6 0UA

Ravenscourt Park, located in West London, is widely considered to have some of the best outdoor basketball courts in the area. The park boasts a vibrant community of basketball players who engage in friendly competitions throughout the day. Additionally, the park’s appealing ambiance makes it an ideal destination for a family outing, complete with a picnic. Finding a court to play on is effortless, given the numerous available hoops.

The court is free and open for all to use.

Ducketts Common, North London
Harringay Ladder, London N15 3NX

The basketball courts at Ducketts Common, known as “TPL,” play a significant role in London’s streetball culture. After refurbishment in 2012, they became an iconic basketball arena. The TPL courts offer an authentic streetball experience, and with FIBA regulation court markings on a concrete surface, they are perfect for competitive games. Adjacent to the roadside, the urban atmosphere is enhanced by passing London buses and pedestrians heading to nearby shops. The TPL courts are also popular for hosting summer outdoor basketball tournaments.

The court is free and open for all to use.

Finsbury Park, North London
94 Endymion Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 4LX

Finsbury Park offers a serene and undisturbed environment for basketball players to engage in competition or practice. The court layout and park’s isolation provide an attractive setting without distractions.

Featuring FIBA regulation court markings, gooseneck posts, and breakaway hoops, the basketball experience is exhilarating. While there are a few “double rims,” there are plenty of breakaway hoops, minimizing potential disappointment.

The court is free and open for all to use.

Hoopsfix, Clapham Common, South London
Clapham Common, London SW4 0QZ

Refurbished in 2021, the “Hoopsfix” courts at Clapham Common offer an excellent venue for hosting summer events. The height adjustable Sureshot hoop systems make the courts accessible to younger players, allowing for games, tournaments, and events specifically catered to their needs.

In addition to being a fantastic spot for basketball, Clapham Common is also an attractive destination for family picnics. As a result, it is expected to be a popular location for playing basketball during the spring and summer months.

The court is free and open for all to use.

Whether you’re in a team or exercising with friends, having to share a public court isn’t the end of the world, there are plenty of games in basketball that you can play with just one hoop and half a court including:

King of the Court 

A continuous 1-on-1 game with make-it-take-it rules. Defenders who fail to stop the offense go to the end of the line, while successful defenders become the new offense. Players track their scores and aim to reach a predetermined target score to become the King of the Court.

3×3 

A widely played urban team sport that requires a hoop, a half-court, and six players. It’s a simple and accessible form of basketball, enjoyed worldwide.

Knockout 

A fun basketball game for improving skills like free throw shooting and rebounding. It can be played with any number of participants and only requires a hoop and two basketballs. The objective is to make free throws while eliminating other players from the game.