Craig Campanella Replaces Over 60 Basketball Nets in New York City Parks

Craig Campanella, a 56-year-old from Queens, has taken it upon himself to replace over 60 basketball nets in more than 25 parks across New York, all at his own expense. In his free time, he travels through the city’s five boroughs equipped with a ladder, a gym bag, wire cutters, and nets that cost $11 each. Although he seems to be part of the New York City Parks Department, his efforts are entirely voluntary and aimed at uplifting his community. Campanella shared his thoughts on hoops missing nets, saying, "I see a game that's less fun... a simple thing that can be fixed." Many local players appreciate the return of the satisfying "swoosh." He believes that while he can't address every problem, his work demonstrates how one person can make a difference. "At my age, you want to do things that make people happy," he adds, highlighting his commitment to giving back. A video showcasing his efforts complements the story.