A group of people, including two mascots, cut a ribbon at an indoor gymnasium event for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington while children watch.
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Newly Refurbished Basketball Court Unveiled at THEARC

THEARC

Building Bridges Across the River hosted the Washington Mystics, Washington Wizards, their mascots, and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington to unveil a newly refurbished basketball court at THEARC on May 29.

The court is an all-ages hub for healthy activity for up to 10,000 community members annually. On school days the Boys & Girls Club runs after-school programming and fields youth basketball teams that practice on the hardwood. Friday and Saturday nights, Building Bridges’ Midnight Basketball league draws more than 60 Ward 8 teens and young adults plus up to 200 community spectators for safe, high energy late-night competition. The space also supports PE classes and team workouts for THEARC’s resident partners Washington School for Girls and Bishop Walker School for Boys. 

“We are so grateful for this investment in our community. Ward 8 residents deserve best in class facilities and Monumental is helping us achieve that goal,” said Rahsaan Bernard, Building Bridges President and CEO.

Beyond the Baseline, Monumental Sports & Entertainment’s court‑refurbishment program, is transforming courts across Washington, DC into safe, vibrant spaces to play and grow. The court at THEARC is the first indoor facility completed under Beyond the Baseline and now boasts a repaired, sanded, and refinished floor; new bleachers and wall pads; upgraded lighting; a rebuilt curtain motor; and a new ceiling‑suspended backstop.

The program is part of Monumental’s multi‑year, multi‑million‑dollar District of Play initiative to expand youth‑sports access throughout the District.

“This court is an investment in the long-term development of young people in our city through the lessons they learn through play: discipline, teamwork, resilience, and accountability. THEARC has long been a cornerstone for youth in Ward 8, and this refurbished court will continue to serve as a safe, reliable space for learning, growth, and opportunity,” said John Thompson III, Senior Vice President of Monumental Basketball.