Historic Rucker Park spawned global genre of playground basketball, Part 1

Rarely could the legacy of any entity be wholly voiced in a manner close to its origin. An almost living, breathing entity like Rucker Park screams animated character and characters mythological occurrences told and retold worldwide.

- By BOB MCCULLOUGH JR. Special to the AmNews

I can remember coming off the patio of my family’s apartment at the age of seven and putting basketball equipment in the hallway. My Dad — Rucker Tournament Commissioner Robert “Bob” McCullough — and me loading 24-second shot clocks into the elevator. Trying to get everything on it in one trip, then chain-loading out the front door of the Riverbend building, 2311 5th Avenue.

We would frequently be met by the world-renowned architect of tap and Apollo Theater figure, Howard ‘Sandman’ Sims, a free spirit who had performed with Bojangles and Sammy Davis Jr.. I often wondered why he was there, helping us out. He was a humble servant, generous of heart and teller of stories for days.