City basketball championships at Peabody may bring “home game” feel to Obama students

Tomorrow, both boys’ and girls’ City League basketball teams will play their Championship games at Peabody. But because Obama Academy is slated for a move to the Peabody facilities, the game may make Eagles’ fans feel like they’re visiting a new home.

Right now, City basketball championships and state playoffs are the only non-Obama-specific varsity athletic functions being held at Peabody. Pittsburgh Public Schools Athletic Director Michael Gavlik explained that Obama Academy already uses various Peabody facilities for their athletics on a permitted basis. For example, Obama swim practices are held at Peabody. But next year, all Obama Academy functions will be moved to the Peabody building, which will house grades 6-12.

The former Reizenstein building (where Obama Academy exists now) has been sold, so its facilities will not be available for use as activity venues. Gavlik noted that the Pittsburgh Public Schools would love to have an athletic facility, but that Reizenstein has been sold to Bakery Square.

Bakery Square is a collection of retail shops and offices. One of the complex’s initiatives for expansion is to include residences.