Rocky Mount hosts second annual Battle of the Badges basketball tournament

Rocky Mount, NC, Public safety agencies from across North Carolina will converge at the Rocky Mount Event Center on September 12, 2026, for the second annual Battle of the Badges basketball tournament. The event, which began as a friendly local rivalry, has grown into a regional competition, drawing participation from teams including the Rocky Mount Fire Department, Rocky Mount Police Department, Raleigh Fire Department, Edgecombe County EMS, and state correctional and community supervision agencies.

This year's tournament, scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 12, will feature teams from beyond the Twin Counties, marking a significant expansion from the inaugural event. Doors open at 1 p.m., with the first game tip-off at 2 p.m. Admission is $10, with all proceeds benefiting the American Heart Association.

"The response to this year's Battle of the Badges has been incredible," said Cali Green, Catering & Conventions Manager at the Rocky Mount Event Center and 2026 Twin Counties Heart Walk Chair. "We have public safety agencies from across the region, businesses, sponsors, and community partners all stepping up to support something bigger than basketball. The event is special because it unites people in competition, fellowship, and a common purpose."

The event aims to raise awareness and support for cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death in North Carolina. According to data from the North Carolina State Center for Health Statistics, 9.4% of adults in Eastern North Carolina report a history of cardiovascular disease, compared to 8.3% in the Piedmont region. "Eastern North Carolina continues to bear a disproportionate burden from cardiovascular disease, and that reality gives greater meaning to why we support the work of the American Heart Association," said David Joyner, General Manager of the Rocky Mount Event Center.

For the first time, the event will include a Corporate Community Partner, Astemo, an Edgecombe County company, which will compete as the special guest team. Astemo joins the competition as part of the event’s 2026 Corporate Community Partner initiative, adding a new dimension to the competition and expanding the role of the business community.

Tarboro native Danisha Lowe, known as "The Host with the Most," will serve as the official host for the event. She also works as the HSE Department Administrator at Astemo, bringing a local connection to this year's competition.

Impultz Entertainment will provide entertainment throughout the afternoon, and cheerleaders from Southwest Edgecombe High School and Rocky Mount High School will add hometown spirit to the championship court. Families can enjoy the Kids Zone, sponsored by District Attorney Jeffrey Marsigli, featuring inflatables, games, and activities for children.

Halftime competitions will engage fans, with Target as the Halftime MVP Sponsor, offering prizes including a 40-inch Roku television, a Keurig Mini, and a Fujifilm Instax Mini. Guests will also have access to concessions and participating vendors throughout the event.

Battle of the Badges is supported by a growing group of businesses and community partners, including Astemo, Crumbl, DICK'S Sporting Goods, Buffalo Wild Wings, Texas Roadhouse, Chick-fil-A, Bojangles, Alpha-Lit Rocky Mount-Greenville, Burrito Shak, Jersey Mike's, East Carolina Inflatables, and The Sports Facilities Companies.

Fans are encouraged to fill the stands and support the teams competing for this year's Battle of the Badges title. Whether cheering for the defending champions, backing a hometown agency, or simply enjoying an afternoon of competition and community, there is something for everyone.

BATTLE OF THE BADGES Saturday, September 12, 2026 Doors Open: 1 p.m. First Game: 2 p.m. Admission: $10 Location: Rocky Mount Event Center Proceeds Benefiting: American Heart Association