The participants play in an organized basketball league for one year. There are three seasons, which conclude after playoffs and a championship game.The program is held two nights each week from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight - prime time for crime. The idea is to give them a positive alternative to drugs, gangs, crime and violence while teaching life skill development such as discipline and anger management. Basketball is merely the lure to attract these young men. Nite Hoops was established with the pre-game workshops and case management as its priority. Discipline and security are paramount to Suns Nite Hoops success. Participants lose eligibility and are suspended if they do not adhere to the program's strict rules. The highly competitive nature of the basketball league helps motivate these young men to stay out of trouble and complete the season. Through the sense of accomplishment and responsibility obtained through completion of the program, the participants are less likely to turn to crime and more likely to apply their energy towards a positive and fulfilling lifestyle. |


