For basketball purists and streetball aficionados, the name “West 4th Street Courts” resonates with a unique intensity. Affectionately known as “The Cage,” these iconic courts at West 4th Street and 6th Avenue in the heart of New York City have been a proving ground for aspiring and seasoned players since 1977. More than just a place to play, the West 4th Street Courts represent a battleground where reputations are forged and legends are born. The slogan of the West 4th Street League encapsulates this spirit perfectly: “We don’t Ball—We Battle.”
Located in Greenwich Village, these courts are notably smaller than regulation size, presenting a distinct challenge. The confined space, surrounded by chain-link fences, demands rapid decision-making and elevates the physicality of the game. Forget about easy layups or flashy trick shots; at West 4th Street, defense reigns supreme. Less assertive players accustomed to drawing fouls will find themselves in a different game entirely. This demanding environment is precisely why the West 4th Street basketball courts earned their formidable nickname, ‘The Cage.’
Spectators watching a game at West 4th Street Courts
The magnetic energy of West 4th Street Courts is undeniable. Passersby are routinely drawn in, captivated by the raw passion and fierce competition unfolding within. While the play is known for its aggressive edge, it stems from a deep-seated passion and an unwavering commitment to high-level competition. This proving ground has launched the careers of numerous NBA players, including New York City legends like Stephon Marbury and Rod Strickland. Strickland himself, in an interview with All the Smoke, emphasized the crucial role of NYC street basketball, particularly places like West 4th Street, in developing some of the most resilient and exciting point guards in basketball history, citing Marbury as a prime example.
But why are the West 4th Street Courts, The Cage, so uniquely dimensioned? The answer lies in the historical urban development of Greenwich Village. This vibrant neighborhood is characterized by its unconventional block shapes, a result of the city’s organic growth intertwined with modern planning. Sixth Avenue originally terminated around what is now West 3rd Street. In the 1920s, a city expansion project extended Sixth Avenue southward to Canal Street. The leftover, irregularly shaped parcels of land at the former avenue’s end were designated for parks in 1934. For two decades, this space served as a modest neighborhood playground, awaiting its destiny.
Aerial view of the West 4th Street basketball courts, Greenwich Village, NYC
While official records remain elusive, local lore suggests that basketball hoops were first erected at West 4th Street Courts in the 1950s. An unsuccessful attempt to further expand the park around this time solidified the courts’ existing dimensions. Crucially, the park’s prime location, adjacent to the West 4th and Christopher Street subway stations, fueled its rapid ascent as a streetball hotspot. Word of this distinctive court in Greenwich Village spread like wildfire, attracting talented players from every corner of New York City.
Spectators watching a game at West 4th Street Courts in the 1970s
This vibrant streetball tradition endures to this day. The West 4th Street League, established by Kenny Graham in 1977, unites teams from all five boroughs – Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. Each summer, the league proudly hosts the prestigious Kenny Graham’s Pro Classic tournament. While top-tier players are often scouted and recruited, others must try out, fiercely competing for a coveted spot. The tournament encompasses divisions for men’s, women’s, high school boys’, and high school girls’ teams, showcasing a wide spectrum of talent. Kenny Graham remains actively involved, overseeing the tournament with the same passion that ignited it decades ago.
Brooklyn Stompers (red) vs Members of the Faith at West 4th Street Courts in 2021
Another beloved figure synonymous with West 4th Street Courts was James Worthy, the self-proclaimed ‘Mayor’ of The Cage, hailing from Jamaica, Queens. Worthy was a constant and cherished presence, renowned for announcing games, providing water to players, and fostering a supportive atmosphere within the streetball community. His passing in December 2023 marked a significant loss for the West 4th Street family.
West 4th Street Courts welcomes all to witness the electrifying action (sidewalk standing room only, please!). Games tip-off in April and continue throughout the summer months. With over 70 teams participating in the league, there is a constant stream of battles to witness at the legendary Cage in West 4th Street, New York, NY.
