MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - National Guard troops could soon become a fixture outside FedExForum during Memphis Grizzlies games as city officials explore expanded roles for the recently deployed forces.
Mayor Paul Young previously said the National Guard could assist with crowd control and traffic coordination during major events during college football and NBA basketball season.
Saturday night’s preseason matchup between the Grizzlies and Atlanta Hawks was the first major sporting event in Memphis since National Guard troops began patrolling on Friday. While no Guard members were stationed outside the arena Saturday, Memphis Police Department officers maintained their usual gameday presence.
Grizzlies fans shared a mix of opinions about the potential National Guard presence at games. Some welcomed the additional security, particularly those who have experienced safety concerns in the area.
“I think in general it makes people feel safer. As someone that’s personally been attacked around here,” said Ashley Lupo, a Grizzlies fan. “The police are one presence but I think there’s been so much conflict even with them around has people not wanting to come out here and commit crime.”
Rajan Thakur, another fan, said he supports the deployment. “I want to feel safe when I come around here, so it’s gonna make a difference that I’m gonna be safe when I’m at the game and come back home,” he said.
However, other fans questioned whether the National Guard would make a meaningful difference or potentially escalate tensions.
“I don’t see any difference in it. The crowds are pretty reasonable, seems like everybody wants to have a good time. said Julius Jackson, a lifelong Memphis resident. “It looks awkward that they’re here. The police seem to be doing a pretty good job.”
Some fans said they hope National Guard assistance at games would free up Memphis police officers for other duties throughout the city.
Members of the Memphis Safe Task Force were patrolling Beale Street Friday night as part of the National Guard’s initial deployment to downtown Memphis.
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