BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — It wasn’t your typical Friday night matchup on the hardwood at the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club in Bridgeport , where kids and police officers faced off in a high-energy basketball game aimed at building community bonds.

The event is part of the Summer Midnight Basketball Program, an initiative designed to give young people a safe, positive space to spend their Friday nights — and to see local law enforcement in a new light.

“If you can get a ride, definitely get here,” local teen Tristian King said.

The court was full of laughter, trash talk and team spirit as kids dribbled, passed and shot alongside officers in friendly and at times competitive games.

“When the law enforcement officers do come, are you guys better than them?" King was asked.

"Yeah, of course, abso

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