#holcomberucker

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

JumpShots Over GunShots ( feat ) Coach Cornell Green with a Victory Over Faith Boys 51 - 33 @ Holcombe Rucker Park #joverg #jumpshotsovergunshots #survivingruckerpark #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerbasketball #teenblackexellence #studentswillwin #imnotplayingcasketball #nogunsnobullletskeepliving (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgbM7fKO4EV/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#joverg #jumpshotsovergunshots #survivingruckerpark #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerbasketball #teenblackexellence #studentswillwin #imnotplayingcasketball #nogunsnobullletskeepliving

[youngcornbread]

Black History Month: “Legends Never Die”

Article by Young Cornbread featuring Blake Breeze

Photography by Quentin Lavon & D’Andre Campbell

Meet Blake Breeze, a 20 year-old musician/producer from Atlanta, Georgia. 

For the first episode of “why?™” Blake and I visited the world-famous Rucker Park in Harlem, Manhattan.

For Black History Month, Blake and I decided to commemorate the life and legacy of Holcombe Rucker.

Born on March 2, 1926, Holcombe grew up in the historically black neighborhood of Harlem in Manhattan, New York during the thriving era of the Harlem Renaissance. Holcombe’s early life started with struggle; without parents, Holcombe gained much of his insight and life lessons from his grandmother. 

During Holcombe’s early teenage years he attended Benjamin Franklin High School and played basketball as a talented 6-foot-3 guard. According to the Landmarks Preservation Commission (NYC.gov) Benjamin Franklin High School was initially intended to help the Italian immigrant community in East Harlem, but shortly after the school’s opening in 1942, demographics swiftly changed with more Black & Puerto Rican students attending the high school. The change led to the high schools’ disinvestment, thus, mirroring the ever-growing social-economical problems of Harlem.

In the middle of Holcombe’s sophomore year, he dropped out of school to join the United States Army for World War II. Once discharged in 1946, the 21-year old married his girlfriend Mary Rucker-Thomas and started a family. Struggling to make ends meet, Holcombe had trouble finding a stable job and escaping poverty.     

The difficulties of Holcombe’s situation instilled a powerful sense of dedication to push forward, and with the support of his wife Mary, he was able to secure a custodial job at a New Jersey bank.

In 1947, Holcombe developed a youth basketball league and emphasized the importance of compassion, books, and basketball. His focus propelled him to finish his high school diploma and receive a bachelor’s degree from City College in New York.

Understanding the social atmosphere of his neighborhood, Holcombe’s vision exceeded far beyond the basketball court and into the personal lives of the children he mentored. The mentorship proved insightful as many student-athletes used Holcombe’s teachings as a guide to maneuver the hardships of Harlem.

Children like Bob McCullough and Peter Sherman, both young aspiring basketball players are success stories who initially struggled to find their way in life. McCullough proclaimed his life was going “nowhere” after being arrested at 11 years-old because of gang activity. With Holcombe’s wisdom and guidance, McCullough turned his life around to receive a scholarship to Benedict College in South Carolina. McCullough dominated his entire college career with an average of 28 points per game.

McCullough was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals now known as the Sacramento Kings, but was cut from the team for basketball icon Oscar Robertson. McCullough continued to pursue his education receiving a master’s degree and following in Rucker’s footsteps to become a counselor and lecturer.

The success of Rucker’s basketball league attracted the likes of college recruiters, which helped solidify important connections. Over 700 student-athletes were able to secure college scholarships because of Holcombe’s efforts, therefore, many of those student-athletes excelled to become doctors, lawyers, and educators.

Mary Rucker-Thomas, Holcombe’s beloved wife truly supported all of his endeavors because he was the father his community so desperately needed. Mary understood the value of Holcombe’s work, and she diligently took care of their children, which speaks volumes of her unconditional love.

In 1965, Holcombe Rucker passed away at the age of 38 because of lung cancer. Holcombe’s legacy will forever be felt throughout the world from his compassion to life lessons, his presence is always appreciated.

“Each One Teach One” - Famous African proverb

Blake Breeze - One Love

Talking to Blake at Rucker Park, I learned a lot about his debut project “One Love.” 

Blake spoke about his New York City influences from legendary artists like Jay Z, Mase, and DMX. Visiting Rucker Park created a surreal moment because I was unaware that Mase had provided much of the inspiration for “One Love.”

I found this ironic because Mase is from Harlem, which explains the essence of situations becoming “full circle,” considering Holcombe Rucker’s influence stemmed from the social-economical conditions of Harlem.

Blake was extremely enthusiastic about sharing his love for New York legends and the importance of “Harlem World,” Mase’s debut album.

The creative process of making timeless music drives Blake’s ambition for greatness as he produces all of his music; a true form of artistic independence. Blake mentioned he starts each song with the production aspect, constructing soulful instrumentals to record his witty lyrics and infectious hooks and melodies.

Using an MPC sampler and loading drum patterns into his computer, Blake has found much success implementing his own personal style with every song he creates. His knowledge of music is backed by quality tunes that keeps his listeners wanting more with every track.

As of December of 2019, Blake Breeze explained the process of writing lyrics held back his creativity and ability to release songs.

“Know Your Name,” the lead single for Blake’s debut “One Love” showcases his natural sense of crafting a timeless record. In my opinion, I view Blake’s music with the likes of Kanye West, Travis Scott, or Pi’erre Bourne. Individuals that truly understand creating music at the highest level of quality.

Improvisation has become vital for Blake, as he mentioned he knows which beat he’ll freestyle to within the first 20-seconds of the track. From there, his creativity builds the track from his life experiences and sheer talent.

Blake emphasized the importance of production because he initially struggled with crafting instrumentals earlier in his music career. Over time, Blake truly surprised himself as his skills began to cultivate and continue to grow everyday.

A true rapper at heart, Blake sets his intentions to inspire the youth to focus on lyricism, adding he wants “people to start rapping for real again.”

Personally, I agree with this statement, and believe Blake’s vision will help our generation achieve that goal.

“When you’re hearing actual rapping, actual lyricism, you can connect.”                                                         Blake Breeze

The balance between incredible production and superior lyricism is tough for many artists, but Blake Breeze can truly do both. In his opinion, the two elements of production and lyricism can separate an artist from their peers. Blake believes the key to longevity lies in the artist’s ability to become well-versed within music.

“One Love” Blake Breeze’s debut gives the listener, excellent lyricism through honest reflections and hard-hitting punchlines.

Wrapping up our conversation, Blake stated sports and documentaries have always served as a major inspiration as well. Much of the goals Blake embarks on helping the younger generation and being an individual of positive influence.

At the age of 20 years-old, the similarities between Blake Breeze and Holcombe Rucker are apparent. Two young men willing to take those extra steps to provide leadership and compassion for their respective artistry.

As a community, we must respect the young women and men taking those strides each and every day.

Much respect to Blake Breeze!

Links:

Stream “One Love” - http://hyperurl.co/30fou0

Released by HeartBox Records LLC

I would like to give a personal thanks to Blake Breeze, Quentin Lavon, Michael Outlaw, and D’Andre Campbell for making this vision possible.

Edited by Alison Preston

#why?™ #blakebreeze #holcomberucker #youngcornbread #ruckerpark #harlemworld #onelove

[dailydsports-blog]

Holcombe Rucker Park is the Mecca of NYC schoolyard basketball. Story link in bio: dailydsports.com/the-rucker • • • • • #basketball #basketballislife #therucker #holcomberucker #ruckerpark #schoolyardball #schoolyardbasketball #nyc #nycbasketball #thedailydose #dailydsports #dailydosesports #holcomberuckerpark

#schoolyardball #holcomberuckerpark #nyc #dailydosesports #basketballislife #basketball #dailydsports #therucker #schoolyardbasketball #thedailydose #holcomberucker #ruckerpark #nycbasketball

[fiveeightconsulting]

117th St Harlem w/ my cousin Tye at #HolcombeRucker HS #Basketball Tournament watching his son lil Malik play. #Saturday (at Uptown, Harlem)

#holcomberucker #basketball #saturday

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

Coach Best with JumpShots Over GunShots 12U Winners #12ubasketball🏀 #joverg #theydidntbelieveinusgoddid #goddid #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerbasketball #survivingruckerpark #teenblackexellence #studentswillwin #kids2daystars2morrow #goodmorningteenamerica #teenblackexellence #imnotplayingcasketball #nogunsnobullletskeepliving (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgbLbXGOTXW/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

JumpShots Over GunShots @ Holcombe Rucker Park. 12U Basketball 🏀 @ Rucker Park #holcomberucker #jumpshotsovergunshots #survivingruckerpark #ruckerparkstreetball #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #teenblackexellence #studentswillwin #buildingabetter2morrow #imnotplayingcasketball #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #theydidntbelieveinusgoddid #goddid #educationmatters📚 (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgaI4qOP1At/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

Coach RON, Coach Cornell for JUMPSHOTS OVER GUNSHOTS @ Holcombe Rucker Park 155. #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #joverg #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #teenblackexellence #kids2daystars2morrow #goodmorningteenamerica #12ubasketball🏀 (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgaIMLUPsaF/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #joverg #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #teenblackexellence #kids2daystars2morrow #goodmorningteenamerica #12ubasketball🏀

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

Cornell Green 12 U Basketball 🏀 JUMPSHOTS OVER GUNSHOTS #jumpshotsovergunshots #joverg #jogsportsapparel #theydidntbelieveinusgoddid #goddid #educationmatters #studentswillwin #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #imnotplayingcasketball #kids2daystars2morrow #schoolsnotprisons #jumpshotsovergunshotsapparel #12ubasketball🏀 #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerbasketball #survivingruckerpark (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgaHcWlP2B4/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#jumpshotsovergunshots #joverg #jogsportsapparel #theydidntbelieveinusgoddid #goddid #educationmatters #studentswillwin #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #imnotplayingcasketball #kids2daystars2morrow #schoolsnotprisons #jumpshotsovergunshotsapparel #12ubasketball🏀 #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerbasketball #survivingruckerpark

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

J.O.G Victory Over FAITH BOYS🏀 51 - 33 JOVERG 12 U @ Holcombe Rucker Park. Each 1 Teach 1 #survivingruckerpark #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerplayground #holcomberuckerbasketball #joverg #jogsportsapparel #jumpshotsovergunshots #studentswillwin #imnotplayingcasketball #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #educationmatters (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgaGmzSveqP/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#survivingruckerpark #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerplayground #holcomberuckerbasketball #joverg #jogsportsapparel #jumpshotsovergunshots #studentswillwin #imnotplayingcasketball #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #educationmatters

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

JumpShots Over GunShots 12 & Under Basketball 🏀 Victory for J.O.G #joverg #teenblackexellence #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #jumpshotsovergunshots #anothervictory🏀 #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #imnotplayingcasketball #studentswillwin #kids2daystars2morrow #buildingabetter2morrow #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CgaE1p9PaO4/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#joverg #teenblackexellence #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #jumpshotsovergunshots #anothervictory🏀 #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #imnotplayingcasketball #studentswillwin #kids2daystars2morrow #buildingabetter2morrow #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

JumpShots Over Gunshots 14U July 10th Summer 2022 2nd Win the J.O.Gees 53 - 23 J.O.G vs. Team Roc #jumpshotsovergunshots #joverg #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #ruckerpark155 #ruckerpark155th #schoolsnotprisons #educationmatters #teenblackexellence #goodmorningteenamerica #sportsworldwar #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #imnotplayingcasketball #survivingruckerpark (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf2deZtFNep/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#jumpshotsovergunshots #joverg #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #ruckerpark155 #ruckerpark155th #schoolsnotprisons #educationmatters #teenblackexellence #goodmorningteenamerica #sportsworldwar #nogunsnobullletskeepliving #imnotplayingcasketball #survivingruckerpark

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

#holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #jumpshotsovergunshotsfilms https://www.instagram.com/p/CbbQRedFMro/?utm_medium=tumblr

#holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #jumpshotsovergunshotsfilms

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

#holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #jumpshotsovergunshotsfilms (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CbbQFeoFGQZ/?utm_medium=tumblr

#holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #jumpshotsovergunshotsfilms

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

#holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #jumpshotsovergunshotsfilms (at JumpShots Over GunShots) https://www.instagram.com/p/CbbPxeRlpZr/?utm_medium=tumblr

#holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #survivingruckerpark #jumpshotsovergunshots #jumpshotsovergunshotsfilms

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

#mylettertokyrie My Letter to Kyrie #retakesandretakes #retakesandmistakes #retakesandouttakes #retakesmistakesandouttakes #outtakesandmistakesmakeushuman #outtakesarethebesttakes #outtakesandbloopers #mistakesandretakes #mistakesandouttakes #havingfun #havingfunwithit #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #joverg #jogsportsapparel #jumpshotsovergunshots #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerplayground #gregmarius #gregmariuscourt #educationmatters #entrepreneurshipmatters #directorrightjones #survivingruckerpark #nbparuckerpark #nbpa #nbpatop100 #nbparuckerlegends #jrjournalist (at Rucker Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CVWWC81F2kA/?utm_medium=tumblr

#mylettertokyrie #retakesandretakes #retakesandmistakes #retakesandouttakes #retakesmistakesandouttakes #outtakesandmistakesmakeushuman #outtakesarethebesttakes #outtakesandbloopers #mistakesandretakes #mistakesandouttakes #havingfun #havingfunwithit #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth #joverg #jogsportsapparel #jumpshotsovergunshots #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerplayground #gregmarius #gregmariuscourt #educationmatters #entrepreneurshipmatters #directorrightjones #survivingruckerpark #nbparuckerpark #nbpa #nbpatop100 #nbparuckerlegends #jrjournalist

[jumpshotsnevergunshots]

My Letter to Kyrie #mylettertokyrie #retakesouttakesandmistakes #retakesandouttakes #outtakesandmistakes #mistakesandretakes #retakesandmistakes #retakesandretakes #outtakesarethebesttakes l#jogsportsapparel #joverg #jumpshotsovergunshots #directorrightjones #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerplayground #gregmarius #gregmariuscourt #nbpa #nbparuckerpark #nbpatop100 #nbparuckerlegends #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth (at Roc Nation) https://www.instagram.com/p/CVWWCrmFH7Q/?utm_medium=tumblr

#mylettertokyrie #retakesouttakesandmistakes #retakesandouttakes #outtakesandmistakes #mistakesandretakes #retakesandmistakes #retakesandretakes #outtakesarethebesttakes #jogsportsapparel #joverg #jumpshotsovergunshots #directorrightjones #holcomberucker #holcomberuckerpark #holcomberuckerplayground #gregmarius #gregmariuscourt #nbpa #nbparuckerpark #nbpatop100 #nbparuckerlegends #empoweringdisadvantagedyouth