On New Year’s Eve, Black boys and men from the greater Seattle area sacrificed their kickbacks and fireworks to play basketball in honor of victims of gun violence. Kent’s Emerald City Basketball Academy was filled to the brim with young talent and nearly 200 people personally affected by the all too common tragedy. Jeremey Winzer, a youth support specialist with the Progress Pushers organization, organized the “Hoop to Heal” event. In an effort to provide an outlet for families affected by the senseless violence, the event gave young Black men the space to face these harsh realities amidst the love and support of one another.
Suited in black and orange to signify gun violence awareness, the young men put on a show for attendees. The teams consisted of exceptionally talented players from all around Washington State, and the high energy in the gym could certainly attest. From dunk contests to video games, all in attendance were kept engaged throughout the entirety of the event and an honest sense of unity was felt in the atmosphere. Winzer carefully crafted the night down to the most meticulous details: the ten basketballs used were branded in bold Sharpie with the names of victims as well as “Gun violence is preventable” etched above.
Winzer, who mentored numerous youth who have faced legal trouble, is well-aware of the importance of having a passion in life. With the presence of structure, youth are often kept distracted from the horrors they may potentially face outside a basketball court. Winzer personally experienced a similar experience., once he “lost” his structure after seizing to play basketball post-college, he found himself in prison. This lack of accessible structure or outlets for the youth are reflective of King County’s record-setting 2024, where young people’s homicide reached its ultimate peak.
Two of the young victims who were honored that night, Amarr Murphy-Paine and Soloman Taylor, were connected to Garfield High School. Both of the teenagers were lost to gun violence in the last year and while loved ones are still grappling with the unimaginable loss, they continue to honor and remember the young men with activities like Hoop to Heal. While basketball nights alone can’t put an end to the matter, Winzer’s flawlessly executed event was certainly a step in the right direction as the new year begins.
Winzer repeatedly stresses the need for community. In an environment where it’s easy to be led astray or feel overall helpless, his ultimate goal is to make noise for change, push back, pressure our community to have those uncomfortable conversations, and reflect on what we should be doing to prevent the loss of life. Every player that night was sent home with a gun lockbox and encouraged to discuss firearm security with members of their household. And while these things may sound small, they can make all the difference.
