While a few are vying to get their name on the new Burgo Basketball Association Basketball Complex through monetary donations, the association had a very different naming ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 29.

Association President Steve Burgo announced one of the outdoor basketball courts has been dedicated to and named after the late Algie F. “Buddy” Wheatley, Jr.

“One of the best ball players to ever come out of New Bedford,” Wheatley was a long-time member of the association, helping out whenever he could, Burgo said.

At the Burgo Basketball Association, “it’s all about the kids,” and Wheatley exemplified that in all that he did, said Burgo.

He highlighted how Wheatley often worked the basketball camps and had anticipated returning for another season of coaching, but had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. 

“He’s been very helpful to the community,” Burgo said, also highlighting his work as a substitute teacher at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical School.

His son has now taken over his role at the association, following in his father’s footsteps, Burgo said.