Grizzlies Fans Weigh In on Possible National Guard Presence at Games
As Memphis officials consider expanding the role of recently deployed National Guard troops, fans of the Memphis Grizzlies are reacting to the possibility of seeing them stationed outside FedExForum on gamedays.
Mayor Paul Young has suggested that the National Guard could help manage crowds and traffic during major sporting events, including college football and NBA games.
Saturday’s preseason contest between the Grizzlies and the Atlanta Hawks marked the first major event since the Guard began patrolling parts of Memphis on Friday. Although no troops were visible outside the arena that night, Memphis Police maintained their standard gameday operations.
Fan reactions to the potential presence of the National Guard were mixed. Some welcomed the idea, citing personal safety concerns.
“It just makes people feel more secure,” said Grizzlies supporter Ashley Lupo. “I’ve been attacked in this area before. Even with police around, there’s still been trouble, so maybe this will help deter crime.”
Rajan Thakur echoed that sentiment: “I want to feel safe when I come to games and when I leave. This could make a real difference.”
Others, however, expressed skepticism about the need for the Guard at games or worried it might create unnecessary tension.
“I don’t think it changes much,” said longtime Memphis resident Julius Jackson. “The crowd’s usually well-behaved. It feels strange seeing them here when the police already do a solid job.”
Some fans also hoped that if the Guard takes on gameday duties, it might allow local police to focus on other areas of the city.
Meanwhile, members of the Memphis Safe Task Force were seen patrolling Beale Street on Friday night as part of the Guard’s initial downtown deployment.
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