Liverpool youth basketball tournament aims to reduce crime

The UK’s biggest free 3×3 basketball tournament has returned to a city as part of an initiative to reduce violent crime.

Youngsters from Merseyside are taking part in the event in Liverpool, which is the basketball equivalent of football.

The event, held at Liverpool ONE’s Chavasse Park, was conceived by Toxteth El8te CIC and is funded by the Merseyside Violence Reduction Partnership (MVRP).

Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell said the event would “give young people the chance to channel their energy and skills into positive activities during the school holidays”.

The tournament was first held in the city in August 2023, when around 200 youngsters took part in the activities on a purpose-built court.

Emile Coleman from Toxteth El8te said the first event was a “huge success” and there was an unprecedented number of entries this year, filling all team slots within 10 days.

Ms Spurrell said the power of basketball was “incredible” and by working alongside Toxteth El8te, she hoped to inspire more young people to give it a go.

Debi McAndrew from MVRP said: “Employing young people is vital if we are to help them reach their full potential and prevent them from getting involved in activities that could lead them down the wrong path or lead to harm themselves or others”.

Iain Finlayson, director of ownership at Liverpool ONE, said grassroots sporting organizations like Toxteth El8te were essential in bringing young people together and in turn having a positive impact on their confidence and mental health.

This year’s event, which is supported by Liverpool ONE, started on Friday and runs until Sunday.

Free coaching and mentoring sessions are offered every day between 10:00 and 12:00 BST with the aim of giving more young people the chance to try the sport of basketball and put their skills to the test.

Then in the afternoon, between 12pm and 8pm, over 60 3X3 teams will bounce the ball, competing to reach the grand final on Sunday afternoon.