Basketball’s Badge Showdown: The Ultimate Battle on the Court

The Sedona Fire District, alongside various police and fire agencies from the Verde Valley, is organizing a charity basketball game on Saturday, October 26, at 5 p.m. The event will take place at Mingus Union High School. Tickets are priced at $5, while children aged 5 and under can enter for free. All funds raised will support the Mingus girls’ basketball team.

This friendly competition will feature firefighters from the Sedona Fire District, Cottonwood Fire Department, Verde Valley Fire District, and Copper Canyon Fire and Medical District, going head-to-head against police officers from various local departments.

SFD Division Chief Jordan Baker reflected on the last game, where the police clinched victory. “We feel that was a fluke,” he stated. “We want to reclaim our throne as the champions once again.”

The evening will also include a 50-50 raffle, a silent auction, and a chance to win a 75-inch TV by making a half-court shot during halftime. Attendees can purchase raffle tickets for a shot at the prize, highlighting an engaging atmosphere. The Mingus girls’ basketball team will manage the concession stand.

The Sedona Fire District emphasized the historical significance of the event in their press release. “In past years, the game raised funds for various youth athletics, senior citizen programs, and other organizations in need,” they noted. Although there has been a hiatus since 2012, the opportunity to support a local program prompted its revival.

Baker remarked that the trophy, previously exchanged annually, could potentially resurface for the game. “If we can locate it, it will be available for the winner,” he explained, underscoring the camaraderie and competitive spirit of the event.

Cottonwood Police Department Acting Chief Kevin Murie, who will lead the police team, admitted he was unsure of the trophy’s current location. “The last time we played, we won, so it’s likely they have it somewhere,” Baker added, signaling a determined effort to track it down.

Historically, the firefighters employed a fast-paced strategy to exert pressure on their law enforcement counterparts. “We always try to outrun the cops,” Baker admitted. “The excitement lies in watching former athletes attempt to relive their glory days on the court, showcasing both the fun and challenges of aging.”

Reflecting on their past encounters, Baker reminisced about competing against Murie in his first Battle of the Badges. Murie recalled feeling both intimidated and confident when playing against adults while still in high school, illustrating the long-standing rivalry and evolution of the event.

“This is a great opportunity for the community to see public service personnel in a different light,” Baker said. “We typically engage with the community during emergencies, but this event showcases our commitment to giving back.”