Hoops Night gives Raleigh teens chance to connect with officers

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- South Raleigh teens faced off against Raleigh police officers on the basketball court Friday as part of the Raleigh Police Department's Hoops Night initiative, a program designed to provide young people with a safe space to have fun and build relationships with officers.

The program, started by Police Chief Rico Boyce, brings officers and teens together in a relaxed setting through community basketball games held across the city.

"I came out because I just want to play against cops," said Jordan N'goran, a student at Carnage Middle School.

Community members said the events offer more than just recreation.

"I'm very excited to see the children get positive mentorship, direction and encouragement," said Sharon Crenshaw of the group Women of Southeast Raleigh.

Boyce said participation has continued to grow throughout the summer.

"Every week that we host one of these days, I see the attendance increase. So, that lets us know that the message is resonating through the community," Boyce said.

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Organizers say the games are intended to give teens a positive activity on Friday nights while also creating opportunities to connect with mentors in their neighborhoods.

"This is a beginning, a new beginning for the kids and of the generation that needs to know that they have people that they can come to," said Dorothy Adams of Women of Southeast Raleigh.

Community advocates also said the events help young people interact with law enforcement in a positive environment.

"With this type of program, it gives them a sense to be able to communicate and to get your feelings out and know that all police officers are not bad," said Joni Craven of Women of Southeast Raleigh.

The success of the program has prompted department leaders to consider expanding similar activities beyond the summer months.

"I see the momentum here in what we're doing, and we're going to start looking at it as something that we can do throughout the year," Boyce said.

For some participants, the games are also an opportunity to improve their basketball skills.

"Get more advanced with other cops so I could get better and better," N'goran said.

The next and final Hoops Night event of the summer is scheduled for next Friday at the Lake Lynn Community Center.

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