Central High School in Springfield, Massachusetts, dedicated its basketball court to former NBA star Travis Best on December 22, 2025. The ceremony recognized Best's remarkable high school and professional career, inspiring current students. The event preceded a varsity game against the Agawam Brownies.
On December 22, 2025, Central High School in Springfield, Massachusetts, held a special court dedication ceremony honoring alumnus Travis Best, a former NBA point guard whose legacy continues to motivate young athletes.
Best, who graduated from Central High, led the school's varsity basketball team to an undefeated 25-0 season and a Division I State Championship in 1991. His excellence continued at Georgia Tech, where he amassed over 2,000 career points, 600 assists, and earned multiple All-ACC honors. Best then enjoyed a 10-year NBA career with teams including the Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, and New Jersey Nets. After the NBA, he played professionally overseas in Italy, Poland, and Russia.
Springfield Athletic Director Dwayne Early highlighted Best's impact, stating, “For years, Central High has prided itself on a rich tradition of athletics and heart. By naming its basketball court after Travis Best, the district recognizes not only his extraordinary achievements on the court, but also the inspiration he continues to offer to our student-athletes citywide.”
The ceremony, eagerly awaited by the Springfield community, drew support from Mayor Domenic Sarno, who remarked, “When mutual friends and the community reached out to me about naming the Central basketball court in Travis’ honor – it was a no brainer for me. Congrats, ‘Trav,’ and continued success both on and off the court.”
The dedication began around 6:45 p.m., followed by a 7:30 p.m. tip-off as the Central Boys’ Varsity Basketball team faced the Agawam Brownies. This event underscores Central High's commitment to celebrating athletic heritage and fostering future talent.
