Community basketball tournament on April 3

WADESBORO — Community members and law enforcement are teaming up for the first annual first responders vs. community basketball tournament and cookout at Harvest Ministries.

The Wadesboro Police Department and first responders will challenge members of the community in a friendly basketball tournament starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 3.

The idea originated when Officer Josh Helms went out to Harvest Ministries in the summer while kids were playing basketball. At first the players were looking at Helms like “deer in headlights,” confused why he was there.

“They all stopped and stared at me,” Helms said. “I got out and they had that, ‘Oh here we go again’ look. I put my hat backwards and said, ‘Hey, let me get a shot.’ ”

Helms ended up playing a full game of basketball and they all ordered pizza after. A video of Helms playing with the kids circulating around Facebook with positive feedback. And so, a tournament idea was born to continue this friendly competition.

The original plan was to have a game or two for the event, but the overwhelming response led to a tournament style. There will now be some trophies or medals to win and of course, bragging rights.

The tournament was a long time coming as COVID-19 pushed back the date, but now as restrictions have eased, participants will be able to play or watch, following social distancing guidelines and wearing masks.

“I love basketball and just showing people that we’re human too,” Helms said. “If that’s what can bring us and the community closer, I’ll do it.”

Basketball is constantly being played at Harvest Ministries, according to Pastor Steve Adams. Sometimes there will be about 30 people playing games. The games sometimes last until midnight, which is why Harvest Ministries added lights. The court was also resurfaced within the past couple years.

“The community has been for it for the most part,” Adams said. “This was a no brainer when Officer Helms reached out.”

The event grew from a friendly game between first responders and the community to a full on basketball tournament.

Given the climate of the world, and with recent events locally, Adams believes this is a perfect time to bring together the community.

There will be tables and benches set up for a free cook out. County Commissioner Robert Mims will be grilling up some food. A local AAU team will be coming out to help keep score of the games and volunteer referees to make it a real game. Each team will have jerseys and about 40 t-shirts will be available for free on a first come, first serve basis.

Harvest Ministries bought glass backboards from Wingate University and Adams hopes they will be able to get the backboards set up before the tournament.

Helms has about 20 people on the first responders side ready to play. Six to 8 people will be on a team. The game will be played 5-on-5, so the extra few people will allow for subs.

Registration will start at 2 p.m. Teams will each have two practice games before everyone breaks for a late lunch break. Afterwards, a double-elimination tournament will start.

A former Anson resident who lives in Virginia even called Adams saying he wanted to play, bringing along other teammates he used to play with at Anson. Bearcats star alumni B.J. Tyson will be coming back to play.

If you want to play but do not have a team, they will put you on a team. You can even come the day of and register.

“I’m just grateful to be apart of it,” Adams said. “To show the community in spite of what is happening, we can come together. There is no doubt we can’t…We’re not as far apart as people are making us.”

This is just the beginning for Helms’ vision as he thinks it can continue to grow year after year with more participation.

To donate or be part of the event, call 704-695-2879 or email jhelms@wadesboropolice.com.