TAMPA, Fla. — A Tampa police officer recently turned a routine neighborhood patrol into an impromptu basketball moment, joining a pickup game with local residents.

According to the Tampa Police Department, the officer spotted the game while proactively patrolling the area and took the opportunity to connect with community members by stepping onto the court.

The game brought plenty of smiles and a few baskets, reinforcing the department’s ongoing efforts to build trust and strengthen relationships with residents through everyday interactions.

Officials say community engagement moments like this help foster mutual respect and bring officers and neighbors closer together.

Source: Tampa Police Department