Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks Announces New Summer Basketball Youth League

BALTIMORE, MD — Baltimore County’s Department of Recreation & Parks, in collaboration with Delegate Carl Jackson and community leaders, today announced the creation of its new Baltimore County Summer Basketball League for youth. A kickoff celebration — complete with youth exhibition games — will take place in Overlea on Sunday and is open to the public.

The Baltimore County Summer Basketball League (BCSBL), will begin in summer 2024 and was created to establish a safe, fun and interactive sports activity that unites the communities of Baltimore County. With a focus on fostering athletic growth and community camaraderie, the league will be organized and managed by the Baltimore County Recreation & Parks Department in partnership with dedicated community leaders.

“We believe in the power of and are fully committed to expanded recreational opportunities in Baltimore County,” said Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “This new athletic league will encourage kids of all ages to learn, play, and grow together in ways that make our county stronger. I’m grateful to Delegate Jackson, our Department of Recreation and Parks team, and our community leaders who advocated to make this league – and the tremendous opportunities it presents – a reality.”

The BCSBL kickoff celebration will be held in the Overlea High School gymnasium, located at 5401 Kenwood Ave., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 27 to showcase the league's vision.

The event will feature a range of exhibition games and engaging activities, spotlighting the talents of local middle and high school athletes as well as skills and drills development for elementary school-aged youth. This event aims to exemplify the league's commitment to fostering athleticism, teamwork and community spirit through basketball. All are invited to attend the kick-off event.

“The Department is eagerly anticipating the commencement of the Baltimore County Summer Basketball League in the summer of 2024,” said Baltimore County Recreation & Parks Department Director Bob Smith. “Our commitment to delivering superior recreational opportunities extends beyond enhancing our current facilities or introducing new locations. While we have made significant strides in those areas recently, fostering the expansion of our program offerings is equally vital. We extend our gratitude to County Executive Olszewski and Delegate Jackson for their invaluable support, which has been instrumental in inaugurating this promising new chapter in department initiatives.”

"I am deeply proud to have advocated for the Baltimore County Summer Youth Basketball League, supported by dedicated community leaders,” said Delegate Carl Jackson. “I express my heartfelt gratitude for the County's investment in this pivotal program. Offering fun alternatives to the streets is paramount for our youth, and initiatives like the Summer Youth Basketball League will not only provide a safe and healthy outlet for their energy, but also cultivate teamwork, discipline and essential values crucial for their development. I extend my thanks to County Executive Olszewski, the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks team, and our local community leaders for their diligent efforts in realizing this league. This initiative is poised to contribute to a safe and enjoyable environment for Baltimore County's youth."

The Baltimore County Summer Basketball League is slated to begin in June of 2024. The league will provide an enriching and safe environment for the children of the Baltimore County community to engage in physical activity and develop their basketball skills while fostering camaraderie among peers.

For more information about the Baltimore County Summer Basketball League, its upcoming kick-off event and details on league registration, email recparks@baltimorecountymd.gov.