If you see a basketball hanging from a wire on the street, here's what it really symbolizes.

Some young people have fun throwing sneakers on the cables for the challenge.
This can mark the end of a period of life (lycée, military service, etc.).
In some schools, this becomes a fun tradition.
If you see hanging sneakers near a school or park, it is very likely to be just a joke.

A symbol of drug trafficking zone

In some cities, especially in North America and Latin America, suspended sneakers are a secret code between traffickers and buyers.

They report that a person sells drugs in the area.
The colour and type of shoes may indicate the type of drug available.
This practice has been confirmed by several law enforcement agencies.
However, this symbol is not universal and does not automatically mean the presence of traffic. The neighbourhood context is a key element to be taken into account.

A form of street art and protest