Local Headlines & Updates:
- Harlem Globetrotters were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Jan. 19, 1982, first athletic team honored.
- Larry “Gator” Rivers appears in the 1982 team photo alongside teammates such as Fred “Curly” Neal.
- Larry “Gator” Rivers died on April 29, 2023, at age 73.
- City officials say remarks by city leaders and Jean Rivers will precede the court naming on May 29, 2026, 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) – The City of Savannah will honor the legacy of Savannah native and basketball legend Larry “Gator” Rivers with a ceremonial basketball court naming Friday morning at Crawford Square.
Rivers, who died in 2023 at the age of 73, made history by helping integrate high school basketball in Georgia before becoming a member of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters from 1973 through 1986.
After his basketball career, Rivers served as a Chatham County commissioner and remained active in the community as a mentor, coach and advocate for local youth.
City officials said the ceremony will feature remarks from city leadership and Rivers’ wife, Jean Rivers, before the official court naming.
Event Details
What: Larry “Gator” Rivers Basketball Court Naming Ceremony
When: Friday, May 29, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Where: Crawford Square, intersection of Houston Street and East Perry Street/East McDonough Street in Savannah
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