Charlie Reid’s Twilite Basketball League 7:25:25 12.01 PM cover art

Charlie Reid’s Twilite Basketball League 7:25:25 12.01 PM

Charlie Reid’s Twilite Basketball League 7:25:25 12.01 PM

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Photo: Pexels.com
Story by Gail Nobles

Good evening, I'm Gail Nobles. Tonight, we turn our attention to a beloved local institution that holds a special place in the hearts of basketball enthusiasts throughout Northern California—the Twilite outdoor basketball league, founded by the legendary Charlie Reid at Shields Park in North Richmond.

Imagine a warm summer evening, the golden rays of the sun beginning to set, casting a warm glow on the basketball court. The rhythmic bounce of basketballs and the cheers of spectators create an atmosphere that electrifies the air. This was the spirit of the Twilite league, where the best and brightest high school and college players from across the Bay Area gathered to showcase their skills, build friendships, and chase their dreams under that expansive, open sky.

Charlie Reid, known as the heartbeat of the park, was more than just a playground director; he was a mentor and a visionary. His commitment to youth development extended beyond basketball—it embraced life lessons, teamwork, and community. In recognition of his immense contributions, Shields Park was later renamed Shields-Reid Park, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated so much of himself to the young players who flourished there.

I don’t have a start date for the league. I'm gazing at a photograph of them, with a note indicating it was taken around 1950—though that's just an estimate. The Twilite league was a gathering place for the passionate and the aspiring, a place where talent was nurtured, and futures were forged.

As we reflect on Charlie Reid’s impact and the legacy of the Twilite league, we can't help but hope for a revival of this cherished tradition. Imagine once again feeling that excitement as young athletes demonstrate their skills under the stars, with the community rallying together in support and celebration. A reinstatement of this league could rekindle not just the love for the game but the spirit of friendship and unity that it once inspired.

As we look to the future, let’s remember the bright moments that took place at Shields Park and honor the vision of Charlie Reid—a visionary who believed in the power of sport to transform lives. Perhaps, with enough support and enthusiasm, we could once again witness the magic of Twilite basketball lighting up those summer nights in North Richmond.

I'm GN. Thank you for listening to EPS.
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