Hoops Return to Bolden Mack Park After Stabbing Incident Leads to New Rules

The familiar sound of basketballs echoing through Bolden Mack Park has returned, bringing a sense of relief to the North Amityville community.

 

Youth and adult leagues run by the MACK Academy are officially back in action after a temporary suspension threatened their entire summer season.

 

The league's permit was abruptly pulled by the Town of Babylon following a violent incident in late June.

 

A woman was stabbed after the league's opening day event, which drew crowds far exceeding the park's permitted capacity.

 

Officials confirmed that police arrested Demeatreous Phillips of West Babylon in connection with the assault.

 

That chaotic event, which featured vendors and music, led to a swift shutdown by town officials who cited safety concerns over the massive turnout.

 

This forced a complete renegotiation between the MACK organizers and the town.

 

After weeks of discussion, a new five-year agreement was established, restoring the popular Amityville basketball program with stricter guidelines.

 

Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer stated the park simply couldn't handle oversized special events, calling it a “postage stamp.”

 

Under the new memorandum, the group can only host basketball games and tournaments—no more large-scale festivals.

 

Games must now end an hour earlier, at 8 p.m., and all vendors or special guests require preapproval from the town.

 

MACK co-founder Andrew Ayodeji expressed his relief, calling Bolden Mack Park the community's “Madison Square Garden.”

 

For local families, the suspension was deeply felt.

 

One parent said her family was “heartbroken” when the games were suspended, stressing the league's importance in her son's development.

 

Now, with clear rules and a renewed focus on the sport itself, the community is eager to move forward.

 

 FAQs 

 

Why was the basketball league at Bolden Mack Park suspended?

 

The Town of Babylon suspended the MACK Academy's permit after a special event drew over 1,000 people, far exceeding the 600-person limit. A stabbing occurred after the event, prompting major safety concerns.

 

What are the new rules for the Amityville basketball program?

 

The new agreement restricts MACK Academy to hosting only basketball games and tournaments, with no other special events. Games must end by 8 p.m., and all vendors or guests must be preapproved by the town.