Tucked inside an unassuming Baldwin Hills neighborhood is a safe haven for upcoming ballers—one of the best-kept secrets in the area.

Looking for a low-key gym to shoot around with area locals? Baldwin Hills may be the spot for you. Catch a coed league game on the infamous outdoor “blue-top,” or get down at an open run on the Wilt Chamberlain Memorial hardwood court right inside the park.

Describing the hoops program at Baldwin Hills, Park Director La Verne Kimble is straight up, “We’re not just about basketball,” she explains. “We’re more about sportsmanship. Teamwork. Teaching life lessons.”

But don’t count them out. The teams at Baldwin Hills are no strangers to competition. They’ll hold their own against any area squad. With recent wins over local powerhouse Rancho Cienega, these community ballers mean business.

The secret to their success is simple—keeping it in the family. Kimble declares, “We couldn’t do it without our volunteer coaches and referees. Between the parents and the older kids who come back to coach, we’ve always got plenty of support.”

In addition to leagues and clinics for kids, Baldwin Hills also caters to teens. They host “Friday Night Hoops,” an open run for the older kids every Friday evening. An 8-week referee training program also gives these players the chance to learn the game inside and out.

But it’s not just about the guys. The “Girls Play LA” program gives young women a chance to get their game on as well. As the winter program prepares to launch, Kimble reflects on the previous season: “We had 6 teams in the 10 to 13 group and 8 teams in the 13 to 15 age group. It’s a great program that promotes the girls’ success on and off the court.”

Although neighborhood athletes enjoy the expansive facility that includes basketball courts, a baseball diamond, and a playground, the main attraction of Baldwin Hills is being part of a community. La Verne reflects, “I love the people. It’s more of a family-oriented vibe than other parks. Although our facility is big, everyone knows your name here.”

And now you know the name of one of the best community gyms in the Southland.