Savannah will officially christen a basketball court in honor of Larry “Gator” Rivers on May 29, 2026, a tribute that brings together city leaders, former teammates and the wider community.
Rivers, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 73, was more than a local star; he was a pioneer who helped break racial barriers in Georgia high school basketball and later entertained fans worldwide with the Harlem Globetrotters from 1973 to 1986.
Beyond his playing days, Rivers served as a Chatham County commissioner, where he championed youth programs, mentorship initiatives and community development projects that still resonate in Savannah today.
Family members, friends and colleagues will hear reflections from his sister, Jean Rivers, who has spoken about the deep bond they shared and the values Larry instilled in the next generation of athletes.
A lasting legacy on the court
The ceremony will not only mark a symbolic naming of the court but also reaffirm the city’s commitment to preserving the stories of those who have shaped its cultural and sporting heritage. As the court’s new signage goes up, it will serve as a daily reminder of Rivers’ dedication, resilience and the indelible mark he left on the community.