Macon Basketball Court Named for Sharone Wright at Frank Johnson Rec Center
MACON, Georgia – Macon-Bibb County dedicated the outdoor basketball court at the Frank Johnson Recreation Center as the Sharone Wright Basketball Court on Wednesday, November 4, honoring the former NBA first-round pick who grew up playing in the neighborhood.
Family, friends, community members and local leaders gathered at the center, at 2227 Mercer University Drive, for the ceremony. The county said the naming recognizes Wright’s achievements and his continued work giving back to his hometown.
Wright said the court tops a long list of honors.
“I’m so happy for this particular honor. I’ve had a lot of honors in my life. I have the Hall of Fame stuff, medal for USA Basketball. I have so much, but this is the one honor that I’m so happy and thankful for,” said Wright. “It means more to me than anything.”
From Unionville courts to the NBA
Wright was born and raised in Macon. He developed his love for the game on neighborhood courts in Unionville, at the Frank Johnson Recreation Center and through Macon-Bibb County Recreation programs, including Jeff Malone basketball camps.
He became a standout at Southwest High School under coach Don “Duck” Richardson. He earned Parade All-American honors in 1990 and All-American recognition in 1991, which put him among the nation’s top recruits.
Wright went on to play at Clemson University, where he earned First Team All-ACC honors and helped USA Basketball win a gold medal at the World University Games. The Philadelphia 76ers selected him with the sixth pick in the 1994 NBA Draft.
He later played eight seasons in Europe and won multiple championships in the Netherlands, Spain and France.
478Hoops reaches thousands of young people
Wright also founded 478Hoops, an organization that offers basketball camps, clinics, mentoring and community outreach. According to the county, more than 5,000 young people have taken part in its programs since 1996. Participants learn basketball skills along with discipline, leadership and life lessons.
Mayor Lester Miller said Wright’s story shows the talent that comes out of the community.
“Sharone Wright’s story is a reminder of the incredible talent that comes from our community,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “He grew up playing on these courts, went on to accomplish amazing things, and then made it a priority to give back to the next generation. That’s the kind of legacy we want our young people to see and be inspired by.”
The court where Wright first built his game now carries his name. County officials said it will remind young athletes that their dreams can begin in Macon.
