South Central Los Angeles—to many people this area has become the cliché of America's social epidemic of crime, poverty, and unjust circumstances. However, to many of the different faces residing in the 51-square mile area of America's second most populated city, this is home.
Make no mistake about it, South Central is far from the American Dream but within the confines of adversity lies one of the most prominent entities in all of sports: the Drew League.
Since 1973 the Drew League has been a staple of South Central LA, providing the perfect escape for those looking to fulfill their hoops fixation; bridging the gap between some of the NBA's finest stars and some of the best players to never grace an NBA hardwood. What was initially molded in the tiny middle school gymnasium of Drew Middle School has blossomed over the years with the likes of Baron Davis, DeMar DeRozan, James Harden, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and more.
This summer Complex explored why the Drew League is so special and how it has elevated itself into becoming one of the most prominent entities in basketball.
