Rarely could the legacy of any entity be wholly voiced in a manner close to its origin. An almost living, breathing entity like Rucker Park screams animated character and characters … mythological occurrences told and retold worldwide.

I can remember coming off the patio of my family’s apartment at the age of seven and putting basketball equipment in the hallway. My Dad — Rucker Tournament Commissioner Robert “Bob” McCullough — and me loading 24-second shot clocks into the elevator. Trying to get everything on it in one trip, then chain-loading out the front door of the Riverbend building, 2311 5th Avenue.

We would frequently be met by the world-renowned architect of tap and Apollo Theater figure, Howard “Sandman” Sims, a free spirit who had performed with Bojangles and Sammy Davis Jr..

See Full Page