'Memorial Showdown' basketball game in Visalia to honor fallen officers

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- A basketball game in the South Valley has high hopes of honoring fallen officers. The "Memorial Showdown" will take place this weekend at El Diamante High School in Visalia.

The West Coast Dreamers are just warming up in a quick pick-up game against some of Lindsay High School's coaches. The players missed some key shots and the coaches won, but this game and a game against teachers at El Diamante High School are just warm-ups. The real game -- the "Memorial Showdown" -- is Saturday night.

"This is a really great way to get the public involved with fundraising for our peace officer memorial," said Megan Rapozo with the Tulare County Sheriff's Office.

This is the third time the West Coast Dreamers have been to Tulare County for this game. Money raised goes to the county's officers memorial. Etched in the memorial is Officer James Rapozo, who was killed in the line of duty in 1998. He is Megan's dad.

"It's really good to know that you're not forgotten," said Megan Rapozo.

Now, this is not meant to be a somber occasion, and the West Coast Dreamers will make sure you're entertained. Officers from each agency will also be switching uniforms and taking on the professionals. This is a rally -- a way to bring a community together.

"Putting on the badge and the gun is a dangerous job, and we don't take any of that lightly," said Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux.

And Boudreaux says it's just another way to honor the men and women who work to protect our community every day. Plus, have a little fun at the same time.

The game is Saturday night at El Diamante High School. Doors open at 6 p.m. Action News sports director Tommy Tran will also be playing in the game.