A new mural dedicated to Buck O’Neil has been unveiled near Sporting Kansas City’s front office, covering over 4,000 square feet. Commissioned by the Missouri Department of Transportation and painted by local artist Phil “Sike Style” Shafer, the artwork pays tribute to O’Neil’s legacy in Kansas City.
Sporting KC players Ryan Schewe, Mason Toye, and Ian James recently visited the mural to learn about O’Neil’s impact on Black history and community leadership in the city. The visit provided an opportunity for these players from various parts of the country to connect with Kansas City’s past.
Schewe expressed his appreciation for learning about the Negro League and its significance: “I mean it was pretty cool,” he said. “I knew nothing about the league in general. So just kind of getting an idea was kind of nice.” His teammates shared similar sentiments about both the artistic representation and historical importance captured in the mural.
Mason Toye noted his newfound understanding of O’Neil’s role: “I had like, I knew a little bit about the Negro League, but I didn’t really know about Buck O’Neil… to learn more about a legend of the city and somebody that was big in Negro League baseball, but just in general in terms of pushing the Black community forward, it was super interesting.”
Shafer is known for his geometric portrait style which incorporates symbolism into his work. This includes references such as the Monarchs logo and a depiction of O’Neil wearing a green suit—a nod to personal stories intertwined with cultural elements. Toye remarked on this vivid detail: “You know, the Steve Harvey reference… so I can tell Buck was full of light… big heart and a bright heart.”
For Ian James, art’s storytelling power was evident: “There was so much to learn and so much to take in… there’s just so many small details that I would have never picked up if I wasn’t explained to them.” He highlighted one particular detail—the handshake—emphasizing unity within sports history: “My favorite part was the handshake… it really makes you think about progress Black people have made.”
Shafer also incorporated personal memories into his work by painting an image of his father tipping his cap as homage—an intergenerational connection through art.
As Schewe reflected on seeing such tributes daily: “Everyone just passes that every day and sees his face. So, it’s amazing.”
The Buck O’Neil mural stands at Broadway Ave. and 3rd St., inviting residents like these Sporting KC players deeper into what defines prideful moments within Kansas City culture today.
