Every day of the school year, starting at around 5 p.m. after classes let out for the day, hundreds of pick-up basketball games are played at Dixon Recreation and McAlexander Fieldhouse. Unlike Intramural Basketball leagues put on by Sport Programs, there are no referees in these pick-up games. There are no officials to judge game fouls or keep time and score. Pick-up basketball is based on the honor system, and when a player is fouled, it is their responsibility to call it.

Competition remains robust, says JJ Mears, a freshman. “These pick-up games are just as competitive as my scrimmages in high school were,” he stated. “Obviously the teams aren’t as well organized, but people definitely want to win.” For Mears, pick-up basketball games at Dixon allow him and his friends to continue to play competitive basketball, even in college.

Dixon’s basketball courts stratify per difficulty, and there is usually a game for every level of competition. On the lower courts near Dixon's east entry, adjacent to badminton and ping pong - can be found players practicing shooting and competitive half-court scrimmages. On the upper courts - particularly the closest one to the windows overlooking west entry - fast-paced, aggressive basketball reigns. 

The popularity of the late night basketball scene at Dixon drives its competitiveness. Most weekday nights it is difficult to find an available court. When ques form, it is an unspoken norm the winning team will play the next game, and the loser will substitute out. 

During winter term, when the weather becomes ugly, and the IM Basketball league occurs, space and time is limited, players practice more, and - as a result - competition skyrockets, says Clinton Douglas, a senior studying civil engineering. Part of this uptick, he says, is because of the football season ending. Football players are looking to stay active over the offseason. “I just come here to hoop, and that’s about it,” he says. 

Most people play pick-up basketball at Rec Sports to unwind from classes, work, and life. “It offers me a chance to get my mind off things,” says Mears. “Its stress relief, pure and simple.” For other members of the Rec Sports community, pick-up basketball is a chance to engage in physical activity in a social environment. Esau Ibarra, a senior studying public health, can be found either studying or playing pick-up basketball most nights. Ibarra shared, “I have absolutely made friends through pick-up basketball.” 

The community around pick-up basketball is unique. While it is somewhat rare for players to spend time with each other outside of Dixon, once courtside it is obvious the camaraderie is genuine. “I know most of the guys who play regularly on a name by name basis,” says Ibarra. “I’ve been coming here a long time, and those whom I do not know personally I still recognize their faces.”

Rec Sports’ late night basketball scene serves many purposes to its participants; it offers exercise, training, teamwork, and socializing. Players find community through their sport's continual popularity. 

Next time you're in Dixon, why not try participating in a game?