“Duke Legend and Sharpshooter Gives Back to the Game with Launch of Cutting-Edge ‘Luke K Court'”
The roar of Cameron Indoor Stadium still echoes in the hearts of Duke basketball fans whenever they think of Luke Kennard. His smooth shooting stroke, calm composure under pressure, and dedication to the game made him a standout during his time with the Blue Devils. Years have passed since he last wore the Duke jersey, but Kennard’s connection to the game remains strong. His latest venture—a cutting-edge basketball facility known as “Luke K Court”—is more than just a tribute to his career. It’s a symbol of gratitude, inspiration, and commitment to the sport that shaped his life. Built with a blend of modern design, top-tier technology, and deep-rooted passion, the Luke K Court is more than just another gym. It represents a dream realized—not only for Kennard but for every young player who steps onto its polished hardwood floor. Located in Kennard’s hometown of Franklin, Ohio, the facility stands as a beacon for youth development, community unity, and the enduring power of basketball to transform lives. Kennard’s journey from high school standout to Duke star to NBA sharpshooter has always been underpinned by hard work and humility. Those same values guided the development of the Luke K Court.
From the moment ground was broken on the project, it was clear this was going to be more than just a facility with hoops and bleachers. Kennard was deeply involved in every phase of the planning, from the layout of the court to the type of floor surface used, to the lighting and sound system. His vision was to create a place where kids could not only train and play but also feel inspired—where they could dream as he once did, with the belief that anything is possible with enough discipline and heart. The court itself is a blend of function and flair. Equipped with pro-grade hoops, state-of-the-art shooting machines, and motion-capture video analysis tools, it offers players the chance to improve their game with the same resources used at the college and professional levels. There’s a dedicated film room adjacent to the court, where players and coaches can review footage and break down mechanics. The facility is also outfitted with an advanced conditioning room and a recovery space featuring cryotherapy, massage therapy, and injury prevention tools. The goal, according to Kennard, is to give young athletes everything they need to succeed—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
But the court is not just for elite players. Kennard emphasized from the beginning that Luke K Court should be accessible to everyone in the community. That’s why a large portion of the court’s schedule is devoted to free open gym time, youth development camps, local high school practices, and community leagues. Financial barriers shouldn’t prevent kids from accessing great resources, Kennard insists, which is why he established a scholarship fund to support underprivileged youth who want to train at the facility. His belief is simple: talent can come from anywhere, and opportunity should never be denied based on someone’s economic status. It’s this mindset that has earned Kennard praise not only as an athlete but also as a community leader.
For Kennard, the Luke K Court is also deeply personal. He often reflects on the long hours he spent as a young boy shooting in his driveway or sneaking into a local gym to get extra reps. He knows how much those moments meant to his development—not just as a player, but as a person. That’s why he wanted this court to be more than just a place to play. There are murals on the walls that tell the story of his journey—from his high school days to his time at Duke to his NBA career. Quotes about perseverance, teamwork, and belief line the hallways. The message is clear: greatness isn’t given—it’s earned. And it’s earned one rep at a time, one shot at a time, one failure and one success at a time.
When the Luke K Court officially opened, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was filled with emotion. Family, friends, coaches, former teammates, and fans gathered to celebrate not only the facility but what it represents. Kennard gave a heartfelt speech, thanking those who had supported him through every chapter of his career. He spoke about the mentors who had guided him, the fans who had cheered for him, and the opponents who had pushed him to be better. He talked about the hard days, the injuries, the pressure, and the sacrifices. And then he turned to the future—the kids who will shoot their first jumper at Luke K Court, who will find their love for the game there, who will chase their dreams there.
NBA players, college coaches, and basketball insiders have taken notice of the project. Many of them reached out with praise and support, recognizing the impact such a facility can have—not just in terms of player development, but in fostering a love for the game and building community. For Kennard, that recognition is appreciated, but not the goal. He’s not looking for headlines or accolades. He’s looking for smiles, sweat, and growth. He wants to walk into the gym years from now and see kids grinding, laughing, and learning—just as he once did.
The Luke K Court is also playing a role in larger community initiatives. Kennard has partnered with local schools and youth organizations to host literacy events, wellness workshops, and mentorship programs at the facility. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about building well-rounded individuals. Speakers from various professions are invited to share their experiences with young athletes, emphasizing the importance of education, leadership, and character. Kennard believes that while basketball can open doors, it’s who you are off the court that defines you.
As the facility gains traction, there are already discussions about expanding its reach. Kennard’s team is exploring the idea of creating a network of Luke K Courts in other underserved communities across the country. The vision is to replicate the model—offering high-quality training resources, mentorship, and accessibility—on a national scale. While those plans are still in early development, the success of the original Luke K Court has laid a strong foundation. Parents and coaches in Franklin have already noticed a change. Kids are more eager to train. More motivated. More disciplined. There’s a sense of pride and ownership in having such a world-class facility in their backyard. It’s no longer just a dream to go from Franklin to Duke to the pros. It’s a possibility.
One of the most striking features of the Luke K Court is the wall of dreams. Located just inside the entrance, it features photos of young athletes who train there, along with their personal goals. Some want to play in college. Some want to coach. Some just want to be part of something meaningful. Kennard reads every entry and often writes messages of encouragement for the kids. That connection—the shared dream, the shared love for the game—is what fuels everything. It’s why the court was built. It’s why it matters.
Kennard continues to be an active presence at the court. When he’s not in-season with the NBA, he frequently stops by to shoot around, run clinics, or just watch the kids play. His presence is never about ego—it’s about connection. When kids see him there, see him watching, listening, and even playing alongside them, it creates a bridge between aspiration and reality. It says: “You can do this too.”
Over time, the Luke K Court is expected to host AAU tournaments, elite showcases, and coaching clinics. But Kennard remains clear about its core purpose. This is not just a gym for stars. It’s a gym for anyone who loves the game. A place where work is honored. Where effort is respected. Where every bounce of the ball echoes with possibility.
Luke Kennard could have chosen to invest in many different ventures. But he chose this. He chose to return to his roots and give back in the most meaningful way he could. By building a space where dreams are not only encouraged but equipped. Where every child, regardless of background, has a chance to fall in love with basketball the way he did. The Luke K Court is not just a building. It’s a legacy. A promise. A reflection of a man who understands that greatness is not only measured in points scored but in lives touched.
As the lights shine down on that court each evening, illuminating the sweat, joy, and hustle of the next generation, one thing becomes clear: Luke Kennard’s shot is still perfect—not just from beyond the arc, but in how he’s chosen to give back to the game that gave him everything. The Luke K Court stands as proof that when talent, purpose, and heart come together, the impact reaches far beyond the final buzzer.
