March Madness @home: Five Swanky Sports Courts
The NCAA March Madness Basketball Tournament has tipped off, and basketball fans around the country (this writer included) are keeping the mouse cursor hovered over the Boss Button in case they need to click away from the games.
But why just watch the action when you can have your very own basketball court right in your own backyard? Or basement. Or rooftop.
From an old school hoop in the attic of a North Shore estate to a full-length outdoor court in Lake Geneva, Wisc., we’ve rounded up five amazing properties that feature sports courts, so you can shoot hoops when your bracket goes up flames.
1. 900 E Ringwood Road N, Lake Forest – $4,995,00
Nestled on a sprawling 3.8-acre wooded home site in the heart of East Lake Forest, this magnificent estate is a true masterpiece. Designed by Perkins, Fellows, and Hamilton and completed in 1916 for Mrs. Cyrus McCormick, the home boasts an elegant European Manor-style architecture that exudes grace and sophistication.
From the grand reception hall with its French limestone floors and marble walls to the intricately carved walnut woodwork and teak and rosewood floors, every inch of this meticulously maintained home speaks of a bygone era.
The mansion features 10 bedrooms, eight full, four half baths, and 10 fireplaces and an elevator. But the big surprise is in the attic, where a lone basketball hoop hangs above a hardwood floor emblazoned with an early-vintage Chicago Bulls logo. It’s the perfect invitation to sneak away from the cocktail party for a quick game of HORSE. When summer arrives, move the game out to the backyard, where an in-ground pool features another hoop built into a bluestone terrace.
2. 225 N Columbus Drive #7505, Chicago – $1,599,000
If, like his Airness, you’re more comfortable at higher elevations, this 75th floor condo at the Jeanne Gang-designed Aqua tower might be more your two-handed jam. The breathtaking three-bed, three-bath residence offers unparalleled views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, Navy Pier, and the city skyline. A wrap-around balcony also allows for 270-degree exposure to the surrounding beauty.
The residence is thoughtfully designed, with floor-to-ceiling windows, professionally finished closets, and recently updated hardwood floors throughout. The modern chef’s kitchen boasts high-end appliances and cabinetry and opens to the spacious living room and separate, corner dining area.
When you’re ready to put up some shots, an indoor basketball court is just an elevator ride away. Other amenities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a hot tub, fitness center, sauna, steam room, outdoor running track and more.
3. 2842 Moelter Drive, Lake Geneva – $1,999,900
Nestled in the Bridlewood Estates, this 16.5-acre property is a recreational paradise. The rustic-contemporary main residence has five bedrooms, four and a half baths and expansive views from nearly every room. Other features include heavy wooden beams, massive stone fireplaces and a kitchen with exposed brick. Outside, an in-ground pool is surrounded by impeccable landscaping, creating a secluded and serene setting for soaking up the sun.
But the highlight for hoopsters is a completely separate 7,600-square-foot building complete with a full-size basketball and tennis court…on the roof! Talk about being on top of your game. The pavilion also includes a large garage and auto shop for maintaining a car collection, a fitness room, theater, billiards room and office.
4. 655 W Irving Park Road #1315, Chicago – $220,000
No one said you need to have deep pockets to own a home with a basketball court. Just ask Jimmy Chitwood, the no-frills hero from the classic movie, Hoosiers, who honed his craft on a dirt court on his Indiana farm.
A slightly more cosmopolitan option is Park Place Tower in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, where you can practice your bank shot without breaking the bank. Currently on the market is a south-facing one-bed, one-bath condo that features a bright and airy living space with hardwood floors, a spacious bedroom with ample storage, and an updated bathroom clad in subway tile. The kitchen is outfitted with stainless steel appliances.
Given the affordability of Park Place, the offering of amenities is exceptional, starting with the full outdoor basketball court. After getting in your runs, you can unwind in the junior-sized Olympic outdoor pool, kick back in a cabana, or catch the Final Four in the theater, complete with plush seating and stereo sound.
5. 585 Longwood Avenue, Glencoe – $9,750,000
A new construction project in Glencoe, this proposed seven-bed, eight-bath lakefront home will offer approximately 10,000 square feet of finished space. That leaves plenty of room for a basement basketball court (photo from existing property), a perfect spot to stay active and have fun, no matter the weather.
The ultimate luxury residence, this home will also include a tram down to a private beach, a wine cellar, gourmet kitchen two wet bars, a media room, exercise room and the absolute finest finishes.
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