Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson Announces Unveiling of Newly Renovated Basketball Court in Lithonia

Entrepreneur and professional basketball player, Alade Aminu, partners with DeKalb County for Bruce Street basketball court upgrades

DeKalb County Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson announces the unveiling and ribbon-cutting of the all-new Bruce Street basketball court at Bruce Street Park, 2566 Bruce Street, Lithonia, Ga. 30058 on Thursday, Nov. 30, at 12:30 pm.

Earlier this year, Commissioner Davis Johnson announced that improvements to the basketball court would include resurfacing, restriping and custom artwork designed by Atlanta-based nonprofit, Art In the Paint. The custom design merges art, culture, and sports together to provide inspiration to the youth and community who will use the court.  

“I am appreciative to the partnership with Mr. Aminu and all of our partners for working diligently to provide this wonderful asset to our beloved community in the City of Lithonia,” Commissioner Davis Johnson said.

Commissioner Davis Johnson also expressed her excitement to welcome members of the Lithonia Middle School basketball teams to the event on Nov. 30.

“My commitment to fostering a safe and nurturing environment for youth engagement in the community is deeply rooted,” Aminu said. “Growing up on the eastside, playing basketball was not just a pastime, but a cherished part of my identity. Establishing this initiative is my way of giving back, ensuring that the next rising star from my neighborhood has a dedicated space to hone their skills and realize their full potential in the game." 

“The City of Lithonia admires the strength of our youth,” said Lithonia Mayor Shameka Reynolds. “This court is history, and we will cherish this gift for years to come. The city is forever grateful.”

Alade Aminu was born in Atlanta, Georgia and grew up in Stone Mountain, where he attended Stephenson High School and later played at Georgia Tech University. He is a professional basketball player and the owner of BAR 44, a new luxury sports lounge in Marietta, Ga. He is a member of the Nigerian National Team and is a Nigerian Olympian who has played professionally in France, Turkey, Italy, Israel, Lebanon, Puerto Rico, Nigeria and other countries.