PP teams up with basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal to fight crime

Shaq and the PM - Let me show you how, Prime Minister

The people of Beetham got more than they expected Saturday when Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and some members of her cabinet showed up to hand out to residents keys for HDC homes.

One of the people present was legendary basketbal star Shaquille O'Neal, who was there for the PM's announcement of a crime fighting plan that includes a basketball tournament with a $1 million prize for the best team.

"Hoop of Life—The Sweat 2012", which was simultaneously launched at Beetham Gardens and Marabella, will see community basketball groups compete for cash prizes. It's a project of the Ministry of National Security and involves several other State agencies, including the National Infrastructure Development Company (Nidco) and the Sports Ministry.

Persad-Bissessar told her audience her government is launching a "Shaq attack" on crime and juvenile delinquency. The term "the sweat" is part of local vernacular for sport in the evening. Persad-Bissessar said "going for a sweat" is a great way to keep fit and she noted that she has two hoops in her yard.

The big surprise of the day was Shaq, who was mobbed by people in the areas, many of whom showed up with basketballs to greet the former NBA star.

Shaq helps the PM in this Newsday photo... delighted kids and adults watch the game

Shaq called the Prime Minister "a good woman" and urged the community to end the violence. "The blood-letting must stop," he said. He noted that the Beetham area, considered by many to be a ghetto, is a "luxury" area compared to the place where he grew up. And he told young people to make the best of their lives.

"I was told I wasn't smart," he said. "I was told I can't play. But I believed in myself." That belief and his determination made him who he is today. He excelled on the court and also in academics, graduating with a PhD in organisational learning and leadership.

Shaq told parents to keep an eye on their kids and encourage them to get involved in sports. "Let them play," he said. 

Sports Minister Anil Roberts would announce details of the Hoop of Life competition at a later date. The prizes are: $1 million for the top team, a second prize of $500,000 and a third prize of $250,000.