Lockefield Garden Dust Bowl documentary screening and exhibit unveiled ahead of NBA All-Star Weekend

Once upon a time, players like George McGinnis and Oscar Robertson were not allowed in many stadiums and gymnasiums around Indianapolis. Now, they are being celebrated on the 47th floor of Salesforce Tower in Downtown Indianapolis: an almost perfect prelude to NBA All-Star Weekend in Circle City. The Dust Bowl, a series of basketball tournaments held at the historical Lockefield Garden on the city’s southwest side, was a meaningful experience for those who remember it. Lockefield Garden was the city’s first set of public housing units, largely occupied by Black residents. Executive of The City League Austin Taylor welcoming guests and legends to the 47th floor of Salesforce Tower, located in downtown Indianapolis, IN., on February 13, 2024. (Photo/Darnell Scott) It was a special night for many on Feb. 13, as city officials, basketball legends and executives of color attended “Out of the Gardens: A Dust Bowl Conversation,” held by The City League. “This is awesome that so many people are here to observe the history,” City League Executive Director Austin Taylor said. Guests enjoyed a beautiful charcuterie board, beverages, filet sliders and more as they basked in the history of the Dust Bowl. Wayne Pack, Indiana Basketball Hall of...