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Like many of Brookline’s leafy public spots, Waldstein Park (a.k.a. “Dean Road Park”) offers the full compliment of recreation options: there are a dozen tennis courts, a large family area (playground, dog-zone, mom-friendy benches), and a giant field complete with a West-facing knoll perfect for chilling in the sun.
All this is to say there are plan-b possibilities if the bball scene is too empty, or too mellow, for your liking. Which it very well may be, since the solitary basketball court at Waldstein offers the type of “feast or famine” pickup scene endemic to Brookline.
Still, players looking for an evening run can usually scare up some decent 5-on-5 here. The attractive scenery and diversity of the court faithful make it easy for ballers of all ages and levels to run and feel comfortable--a vibe enhanced by the court dimensions which are big enough to break a sweat but small enough to keep games from becoming fast-break-fests.
There are other perks too: the court is ¾ fenced in, which reigns in loose balls, and it offers a closeby water fountain and picnic table, both of which are nice amenities between games.
Given all this, its hard to believe Waldstein isn't more of a hotspot. but while it may not yet be a bankable competitive pickup option, Waldstein is worth a look for Brookline ballers, and worth keeping on the radar for the rest of us.
The Bottom Line on Waldstein Park:
Location: Dean Road off Beacon Street in Brookline. The D Line tracks run parallel to the park.
Distinguishing Feature: The only basketball oasis in a sea of tennis courts.
Recommended Kicks: New Balance 888s would be a good choice--something unpretentious, but ready for action.
“And 1”: Come on a nice day, and bring a book. You may have to wait for a game, but the scenery is nice.
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