MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Northwest Prep has an infamous reputation ever since students were accused of beating up an innocent man at a BP gas station after school.

That doesn’t scare one Memphis man, though.

Instead, he started a basketball and mentoring program at the school called A-Team.

Thursday night the students had their first game. Teachers and the assistant principal rooted them on, and they even recrutied students to cheer.

Detric Golden said he’s seen improvements in grades and behavior since he started the program.

“They want to do something positive, but a lot times they don’t have any positive outlets. Every day from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., they are in the gym with me playing basketball and cheerleading,” Golden said.

He said there’s about 20 students participating in the program, but more have shown interest.

Visit the team’s website if you’d like to help his efforts.