Zach Davis of the Winslow Police Department lines up a jump shot as Winslow Fire Department firefighter Sal Hernandez leaps to block him during the first annual Fire vs. Police Basketball Showdown in Winslow. In a nail-biter until the final minute, the fire department claimed a 62-57 victory in its inaugural game.
Zach Davis of the Winslow Police Department lines up a jump shot as Winslow Fire Department firefighter Sal Hernandez leaps to block him during the first annual Fire vs. Police Basketball Showdown in Winslow. In a nail-biter until the final minute, the fire department claimed a 62-57 victory in its inaugural game. Photo by Shawn White
Members of the Winslow fire and police departments pose together for a group photo following the first annual Fire vs. Police Basketball Showdown, which ended in a thrilling finish and sets the stage for an exciting new tradition.

Winslow’s inaugural Police vs. Fire Department basketball game took center stage last Saturday, drawing a spirited crowd at the local gym. Organized by the Winslow Recreation Department, the event won praise from Acting Chief of Police Ernie Cano, who said, “This is an awesome event, I am hoping to have it every year.” Fire Chief Michael Duran also joined the festivities to cheer on his squad.

Representing the Police Department were Sgt. Adam Reeves, Sgt. Caleb Davis, cadet Cayden Warneke, community service officer Steven Crisp, dispatchers Kristina Stewart and Avrial Atchison, and Tucker Conatser (son of WPD dispatcher Taylor Conatser).

Facing them on the other side of the court were Winslow Fire Department members Ector Aguilara, James Martinez, Carlos Quezada, Michael Lawrence, Sal Hernandez, Hayden Hendricks, Michael Yazzie, Roy Lawrence, Merle Stago, Derek Begay, Norman Horn, and Terrance Tso.

Although the police raced ahead in the first half, the fire department slowly chipped away after halftime. With under a minute left, the teams were deadlocked at 57-57. That’s when James Martinez nailed a clutch 3-pointer for the fire department, drew a foul, and added 2 more points on underhanded free throws, sealing a thrilling 62-57 victory. Attendees left with smiles, excited for what is sure to become a beloved annual tradition.