Who are the New York Rens

New York Rens—short for Renaissance—were more than just a basketball team. Established in 1923 and based in Harlem, New York. This team dominated their competition and laid the foundation for Black athletes.

Founded by Robert “Bob” Douglas, he is recognized as the “Father of Black Professional Basketball.” The Renaissance Ballroom and Casino, located at 138th Street and Seventh Avenue, served as the home for the Rens. They achieved national prominence by defeating leading white teams and courageously challenging segregation laws that prevented them from participating in professional leagues. Their story is one of resilience and inspiration!

History

From the late 1920s to the 1940s, the New York Rens were nearly unbeatable. During the 1932–33 season, they achieved an impressive record of 120 wins and just eight losses. They toured extensively, often playing over 100 games in a season.

In 1939, the Rens demonstrated their dominance by winning the inaugural World Professional Basketball Tournament held in Chicago. They achieved this by defeating the previously undefeated Oshkosh All-Stars in the final game. This victory was not only a triumph on the court but also a symbol of Black excellence.

The team disbanded in the late 1940s, but its legacy remains significant. In 1963, Bob Douglas was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, and his team is recognized as a pioneer in the history of basketball.

The story of the New York Rens is one of perseverance, talent, and cultural impact. They weren’t just playing the game—they were changing it.

Conclusion:
Long before the NBA opened its doors to Black players, the Rens were proving their greatness on the hardwood. Their legacy should never be forgotten; it should be celebrated as a foundational chapter in the story of basketball.