Youngstown's RESPECT Basketball League readies for second season since shooting death of founder

Community agencies are keeping William "Shimmie" Miller's legacy alive with another season of the RESPECT Basketball League at the Youngstown YMCA.

The league will tip off on June 8 thanks to a partnership between the RESPECT Foundation, the City of Youngstown, CIRV, the Youngstown Police Department and the YMCA. The league provides healthy competition along with life skills training, personal growth opportunities and leadership development.

According to a media advisory, a press conference is being held Monday morning to share updates on the league, including any changes to leadership, rules or eligibility.

Miller, who had troubles with the law before turning his life around and becoming a mentor and activist, started the league as a way to keep young people out of harm's way.

He worked with youth throughout the Mahoning Valley, working to change mindsets and curb violence.

Miller died on June 12, 2024, after being shot inside of a car near the intersection of Steel Street and Salt Springs Road on Youngstown's west side.

His death came during an outbreak of gun violence in the city that left three people dead, including two teenagers, over a four-day period.

Following Miller's death, city leaders and community activists vowed to continue building on his work including keeping the basketball league going.

The RESPECT League season was delayed for a time after Miller's untimely death but returned later that summer.

Related Coverage: Anti-violence activist found dead in car on Youngstown's West Side