On a recent weekend drive through my east Saskatoon neighbourhood, I saw three different groups of young people playing basketball on the
street.
I’ve lived in my neighbourhood since I was a kid. Back then, I wouldn’t have thought anything of it, but I am among the many that can confirm that there aren’t as many youngsters out and about playing pick-up sports.
There are lots of teams in organized sports to play for, but I just don’t see as much road hockey or catch on the streets or in the park.
Basketball may be the future sport of choice. I believe we can thank the very likable Toronto Raptors for this. The shooting of Kawhi Leonard, the style of play of Fred VanVleet off the bench, and the always emotional — and as a result — entertaining Nick Nurse have made basketball cool to play.
As a result, this country could have more R.J. Barretts and Nickeil Alexander-Walkers reach the NBA in the future. And who knows? One of those players may come from your neighbourhood.