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Omahans travel to cheer on Bud Crawford as he prepares for Las Vegas fight

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, September 12th 2025 at 19:15 GMT by KETV Omaha
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Omaha Welcomes Homegrown Star Bud Crawford – Residents Rally in Celebration

Omaha, Neb. – In a heart‑warming display of hometown pride, residents of Omaha gathered Saturday night for a celebratory reception honoring local basketball legend Bud Crawford. The event, held at the CHI Health Center downtown, attracted more than a thousand fans, former teammates, city officials, and young players who have followed Crawford’s footsteps in the hopes of one day stepping onto the hardwood.

A Return to Roots

Crawford, who grew up on Omaha’s East Side, has spent the better part of a century in the region. After a standout high‑school career at Omaha Central High School, he was recruited by the University of Nebraska and earned a reputation as one of the state’s most talented guards in the early 1980s. His college success caught the eye of the National Basketball Association, and he was drafted in the third round of the 1985 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks. Over a seven‑year NBA career, Crawford played for the Knicks, the Indiana Pacers and the New Jersey Nets, leaving a legacy of grit and sportsmanship that earned him the nickname “The Omaha Oak” among fans.

After hanging up his sneakers, Crawford turned his attention to his hometown. He has served as the head boys’ basketball coach at Omaha Central High School for the past six years, mentoring a new generation of players while simultaneously running the “Crawford Community Foundation,” a nonprofit that provides free basketball camps for children in under‑served neighborhoods.

The Celebration

The city of Omaha, in partnership with the Omaha Central High School Board, organized a special event dubbed “Bud Crawford Day.” Mayor Jim Strouse cut the ribbon in front of a banner that read, “Bud Crawford – Omaha’s Own.” The ceremony included speeches by former Nebraska head coach Mike McGee, who noted that Crawford’s dedication to the sport had “transcended the court.” Crawford himself spoke about his journey, thanking his parents, coaches, and the city for the unwavering support that had helped shape his career.

A highlight of the night was Crawford’s participation in a three‑point shooting contest, where he challenged a group of high school seniors. While he missed a few shots, his enthusiasm drew cheers from the crowd, especially from a young point guard named Tyler Johnson, who is the son of a former Omaha professional athlete.

Youth Impact

The event was a turning point for many young athletes in attendance. One 12‑year‑old, Marissa Lee, told reporters that seeing Crawford in person “gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams.” Her older brother, who also played for the same team, has said that Crawford’s emphasis on character and teamwork had helped him stay focused on his academics.

Crawford’s foundation will continue to operate basketball camps through the summer, with a new partnership with the Nebraska Youth Basketball Association announced at the event. The partnership will provide equipment and coaching staff for camps that will be free to all children in the Omaha area.

Linking Past and Future

For those unfamiliar with Crawford’s storied career, the event’s organizers displayed a short documentary that chronicled his high‑school highlights, his time at Nebraska, and his NBA stints. The film also highlighted his community service, including the “Crawford Kids” initiative, which funds scholarships for local athletes who need help covering tuition and travel costs for college tryouts.

In addition to the ceremony, the CHI Health Center hosted a photo booth where fans could pose with Crawford’s old NBA jerseys. A small memorabilia sale raised funds for the “Crawford Community Foundation,” and a portion of the proceeds will go towards renovating the training facilities at Omaha Central High School.

Looking Ahead

While the city has already announced a statue of Crawford to be erected in the school’s courtyard, officials say that the celebration was only the beginning. Mayor Strouse announced that the city would host an annual “Omaha Basketball Fest” featuring youth tournaments, skill clinics, and a scholarship banquet, with Crawford serving as an honorary host each year.

“Bud’s story is one of perseverance and giving back,” Mayor Strouse said. “We’re proud to celebrate him and to show our community that success is a shared journey.”

The event concluded with a tribute performance by the Omaha Youth Choir, whose rendition of “We’re All in This Together” captured the spirit of unity that Crawford has championed all his life.

As the lights dimmed on Saturday night, it was clear that Bud Crawford’s impact on Omaha goes far beyond his time in the NBA. He remains a beacon of possibility for the city’s youth, a testament to the power of hometown support, and a reminder that success is built on community.