Remembering Greg Marius
Greg Marius, the legendary founder of the famous Rucker Park streetball tournament in New York City, passed away on April 20, 2017. His legacy lives on through the players he inspired and the community he built in Harlem.
Remembering the legacy of a Harlem legend. Rest in peace, Greg Marius.
Marius, a native of Harlem, founded the Entertainers Basketball Classic (EBC) in 1982, which later evolved into the Rucker Park tournament. The tournament quickly became a staple of New York City basketball and attracted some of the city’s best streetball players, including NBA stars like Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving.
But for Marius, the tournament was more than just basketball. It was a way to bring the community together and create positive change. Marius wanted to give young people a safe place to play and showcase their talent, while also promoting peace and unity in the often-divided neighborhoods of Harlem.
Championing basketball and community legacy. Greg Marius and Lebron James share a bond that bridges generations. 🏀🤝 #Harlem #DiscoverYourLegacy
Marius was known for his unwavering dedication to the tournament and his players. He would often drive around the city to recruit players and provide transportation to games. He also made sure that the tournament remained free to the public, allowing anyone to come and watch the games.
His passion and commitment to the tournament helped make Rucker Park a cultural institution. The park was known for its electric atmosphere, with thousands of people crowding around the court to watch the games and cheer on their favorite players.
A true basketball visionary who left a lasting impact on the game and his community. The Rucker Park dedication to Greg Marius is a testament to his enduring legacy. 🏀👑 #HarlemLegend #ForeverRemembered
In addition to the Rucker Park tournament, Marius also organized other basketball events around the city and worked tirelessly to mentor young players and provide opportunities for them to improve their skills.
Marius’ impact on New York City basketball and the Harlem community cannot be overstated. He was a trailblazer, who paved the way for other streetball tournaments and helped elevate the profile of the sport in the city.
From Harlem to the heights of basketball glory, Greg Marius and Kevin Durant represent two generations of sports legends. 🏀🏆 #Respect #LegacyLivesOn
His legacy lives on in the countless players whose lives he touched and inspired. As the Rucker Park tournament continues to thrive and attract new talent, Marius’ memory will remain an inspiration to future generations of streetball players and basketball enthusiasts alike.
In honor of the late Greg Marius, we celebrate his contributions to the game, the community and his legacy of making a positive impact on the lives of others.