Swish! Miami's Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex was alive with the electric buzz of competition as local teens and police officers faced off in the Fourth Spring Classic Youth & Cops Basketball Tournament. This annual event, organized by the Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section (LEC/COS) of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, mixes sports with social connection, aiming to bridge gaps between law enforcement and the youth.
The tournament featured twelve teams, comprised of six adults from various law enforcement agencies and six local teens, many of whom were high school basketball standouts. Spectators were treated to high-flying dunks and impressive three-pointers. "We had some very talented players—cops and teens—which made it really fun to watch," LEC/COS Community Outreach Specialist Corey Mackay told the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The final match pitted the Florida Highway Patrol against the North Miami Police Department in a fast-paced game. FHP ultimately clinched the championship, to the delight of their supporters. But the real victory was off the court, with the camaraderie and friendships forged through every pass and layup between the officers and teens.
J.D. Smith, Tournament Director and LEC/COS Chief, emphasized the events' greater mission beyond sports. "The games were exciting to watch, and we had a nice crowd showing support. Basketball is one thing, but we began this event to help establish a rapport between our youth and our law enforcement officers. That’s what I really enjoy watching... the interaction between them," Smith explained in a statement to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. He added, "It’s crucial for them to interact in social settings where they can find commonalities."
With multiple agencies like the Miami Gardens Police Department and the Miami-Dade Police Department—Intracoastal participating, the tournament also served refreshing refreshments and a supportive community atmosphere, courtesy of the Miami Gardens Parks & Recreation Department. All in all, the event underscored an ongoing effort to humanize officers in the eyes of young citizens and sow seeds for a more united community.
