Inside the gym at the California Medical Facility in Vacaville, incarcerated men with physical disabilities and able-bodied men play wheelchair basketball side by side, according to a story by The Marshall Project published by CalMatters.
Why it matters: California is betting on sports as rehabilitation. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Second Chance Sports Act on Sept. 30, directing the prison system to plan for more sports programs.
Rollin' to Rebound
The program, called "Rollin' to Rebound," held its opening night in late 2022 with Paralympic medalists playing an exhibition game against incarcerated athletes, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said at the time.
It was created by Jeremiah Holland, the prison's recreation supervisor until about a month ago, CalMatters reported. The words "RE CREATION" are painted on the gym wall. "People are always larger than the role that was assigned to them," Holland said.
Head coach Mieko Chambers also coaches the Los Angeles Clippers Chairmen, a National Wheelchair Basketball Association team. Her husband, two-time Paralympian Joe Chambers, is one of the team's outside coaches.
Lessons off the court
Larry Roach, an incarcerated "inside" coach, said the game forces players to slow down and find another option when their path is blocked. "So what's the next best option?" he said.
Former player Landon Jackson said the gym taught men to address problems "so it doesn't get violent." Holland put Jackson's name forward for resentencing, and the warden's letter of support played a role in his release, according to the story.
Under the new law, people who take part in organized sports will reportedly be able to earn credits toward early release.