Everyone gets the urge to pick up a basketball and shoot some hoops, either solo or with friends. There’s just something about sending a ball swishing through the hoop or nailing that crossover.
The good thing is, you don't need much to make it happen. The trickier part is finding the right court.
The good news is there are plenty of basketball courts in Sydney, from central full courts to leafy half courts. They’re more than just asphalt. They’re places where the city comes together. Below you'll find all the details you need including directions and maps.
If you want more than a casual run, check out Red Bull Half Court, a 3v3 tournament where winners earn a spot in the World Final in New York.
Criteria for the best basketball courts in Sydney
Not all basketball courts in Sydney are created equal, and knowing what to look for helps you find the right spot to play. Here are the key things that set the best courts apart:
- Surface quality: Smooth surfaces keep games flowing and safe.
- Lighting: Floodlit courts like Prince Alfred Park or Waverley Park stay busy well into the
- night.
- Accessibility: Courts close to train stations or bus routes are easiest to reach.
- Facilities: Water, toilets and seating are always a plus.
- Vibe: Some Sydney basketball courts are known for pick-up culture and lively games,
- while others are quieter and better for solo shooting.
01
Prince Alfred Park – pick-up games in the heart of Sydney
- Address: Unit 166/186 Chalmers St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Prince Alfred Park is one of the busiest basketball courts in Sydney, a short walk from Central Station. Two full courts set in leafy parkland. It’s often crowded, but the vibe is welcoming and pick-up runs are easy to join.
02
Collimore Park – a 24-hour basketball court in Sydney’s west
- Address: Collimore Ave, Liverpool NSW 2170
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Collimore Park in Liverpool is a 24-hour basketball court, ideal for late-night or early-morning hoopers. Facilities include toilets and a public gym. It’s busier on weekends, but weekdays usually mean plenty of space for a solo run.
03
Centennial Parklands – basketball courts in Sydney’s biggest sports hub
- Address: Anzac Pde after Lang Rd, Moore Park NSW 2021
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Centennial Parklands, Australia’s largest community sports precinct, has multiple outdoor basketball courts in Sydney. Well-maintained with lights, facilities and easy public transport access, they’re popular for both practice and casual games. Some courts require booking, so check the official site for details.
04
Camperdown Basketball Courts – fresh surfaces in Sydney’s inner west
- Address: 24a Australia St, Camperdown NSW 2050
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
The newly rebuilt courts (two of them) have a nice surface under foot and crisp nets and backboards. They are free to use and generally not that busy depending when you pop through. Unlikely any pick up games so good to round up some friends for your own thing.
05
Cook & Phillip Park – a central basketball classic
- Address: Yurong Pkwy, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Cook & Phillip Park is an older Sydney basketball court, but its CBD-edge location makes it a reliable spot for a quick game. Just 10 minutes from the city, it’s convenient after work or study. It’s privately managed, so booking is required here.
06
Beaconsfield Basketball Half Court – a low-key Sydney practice spot
- Address: 100 Queen St, Beaconsfield NSW 2015
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: No
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Beaconsfield’s half court is best for practice or shooting drills. With no lights and no organised runs, it’s a daytime-only spot, but useful for locals who want a quiet hoop session.
07
Waverley Park – refurbished basketball courts near Bondi Junction
- Address: Bondi Junction NSW 2022
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Waverley Park’s three refurbished courts are among the most reliable in Sydney’s east. With strong lighting, facilities and easy transport links, they’re a solid year-round option. Netball takes over in winter, so plan ahead.
08
Gladesville Reserve – a basic but handy basketball court in Sydney’s north
- Address: 2 Victoria Rd, Gladesville NSW 2111
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Gladesville Reserve is a basic multi-purpose court, good for a quick run or practice. It’s free and easy to reach, but with no lighting it’s strictly a daytime option.
09
Scarborough Park – full-size and half courts near Ramsgate Beach
- Address: 7 Hawthorne St, Ramsgate Beach NSW 2217
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: No
- Map:Here
Scarborough Park offers a mix of half and full-size basketball courts in Sydney’s south, set in grassy parkland with picnic spots and a bike track. They’re a little dated but fine for casual runs or practice. Pick-up games pop up now and then if you’re lucky.
10
Sydenham Basketball Court – inner-west hoops with night lights
- Address: 3/15 Rowe St, Sydenham NSW 2044
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Sydenham is a newer basketball court with both half and full-court options in the inner west. Lit until 11pm, it’s a favourite for evening games. The park also has toilets, a skatepark, BBQs and fitness gear, making it a full community hub.
11
Nuffield Park – local basketball court in Zetland
- Address: Ascot Ave, Zetland NSW 2017
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: Yes
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
Nuffield Park in Zetland has a straightforward full court with good surfaces and hoops. With lights for evening runs and usually low traffic, it’s ideal if you want space to shoot or train without competition.
12
McRaes Half Court – suburban basketball spot in Penshurst
- Address: Grove Ave, Penshurst NSW 2222
- Outdoor: Yes
- Lights: No
- Map: See location on Google Maps Here
McRaes is a single half court in Sydney’s south, close to the main road with parking and transport links. With no lights it’s a daytime-only option, but rarely busy, great for solo shooting or dribbling practice.
13
Tips for playing basketball in Sydney – peak times, safety and pick-up runs
Make the most of basketball courts in Sydney with these quick tips:
- Peak times: Courts are busiest after work and on weekends. For quieter sessions, aim for mornings or early afternoons.
- Pick-up runs: Spots like Prince Alfred Park and Moore Park are known for casual games. Bring a ball and be ready to call next.
- Lighting: Sydenham and Waverley Park have strong floodlights for night play, while Scarborough Park and McRaes are strictly daytime options.
- Safety and etiquette: Bring water, keep an eye on your gear, and respect the locals running the court.
- Bookings: Most outdoor courts are free, but organised games at venues such as Centennial Parklands may require booking.
14
Local basketball events and competitions in Sydney
Sydney basketball isn’t just casual runs. There’s a packed calendar of leagues and tournaments across the city:
- Community leagues: Local associations like the City of Sydney Basketball Association and Inner West Basketball run structured comps for all levels, from beginners to experienced players.
- Outdoor 3v3 events: Council-run 3v3 tournaments are growing fast, bringing a social, fast-paced vibe to community courts.
- Red Bull Half Court: A standout on the calendar, this global 3v3 competition brings streetball energy to Sydney every year.
15
Streetball and community culture in Sydney
What sets Sydney basketball courts apart is the community vibe. Streetball in Sydney is about style, respect, and connection. At central spots like Prince Alfred Park you’ll see quick-fire pick-up games with a mix of skill levels, where anyone can call next and jump in.
Music often sets the tone, players bring their own energy, and the crowd on the sidelines adds to the atmosphere. This mix makes Sydney’s outdoor courts feel alive, whether you’re chasing competition or just hooping with mates.
Sydney’s streetball scene is both welcoming and intense, drawing more people to outdoor courts every year.
Follow the energy of Red Bull Half Court: grab a ball, test your game, and share your go-to court with the Red Bull basketball community.
Tip: Watch Life & Basketball: The Rise of Lethal Shooter on Red Bull TV — the inside storyof N BA shooting coach Chris ‘Lethal Shooter’ Matthewsal.
53 min
Life & Basketball: The Rise of Lethal Shooter
Head behind the scenes to meet one of basketball's most incredible men – Chris Matthews, aka Lethal Shooter.
Frequently asked questions