This request is to rename the Basketball Court in Crawford Square to honor Larry "Gator" Rivers.  Mr. Rivers, a former Harlem Globetrotter, was a distinguished basketball player, coach and community leader. Born in 1949, he faced challenges early in life, yet found a passion for basketball at Beach High School, where he led the team to three state championships, and earned several all-city, all-region, and all-state honors. While attending college at Missouri Western State University, he became a record setting guard, achieving a single-game record with 16 assists. Joining the Harlem Globetrotters in 1973, Mr. Rivers showcased his talents in iconic venues like Madison Square Garden. In 2008, after retirement, he returned to Savannah and continued his commitment to the community.  In 2020 was elected to the Chatham County Board of Commissioners where he focused on improving the quality of life for residents of his own District 2 as well as all residents of Chatham County. Mr. Rivers passed away on April 29, 2023 but his commitment and legacy to his community live on today as inspiration for future generations.

On September 4, 2025, the Historic Site and Monument Commission recommended approval to the City Council to name the basketball court in Crawford Square after Larry “Gator” Rivers as requested to be docketed on a City Council agenda because the proposed naming meets the standards within Article E- Naming and Renaming of Public Property, Facilities and Streets.

Recommend Approval