SPRINGFIELD , Mass. - Around 100 kids from all over Greater Springfield are taking time to explore career options, while also enjoying a 3-on-3 basketball tournament.

It's part of Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni's seventh annual "Hoop Up Springfield" basketball tournament and summer job fair.

Employers, including Big Y, Six Flags and state law enforcement were at American International College on Monday to provide youth employment opportunities.

"It's really just a great opportunity for us to connect with young people," Gulluni said. "Put a different face on law enforcement from the District Attorney’s Office. Get them here on a college campus and open up their minds to the possibility of college and the jobs that all comes with getting them here because of basketball."

We spoke with a few kids excited about competing in the tournament.

"I was like looking forward to getting into basketball more," said Brightwood Elementary Student Julies Monge.

"I've been playing on the Springfield Trailblazers, and I'm trying to improve," said Holyoke STEM Academy Student Aiden Scott.

Gulluni said the basketball tournament combined with the job fair is a great way to get young people out of the house and involved in healthy activities.

He said kids who stay employed during the summer are less likely to get in trouble with the law.

The district attorney said it's important to give them a safe space to grow and develop good working habits.

"For the summer when they're out of the school and then just open their minds to work," Gulluni said. "Some of these kids might not have great examples around them. So for them to get an opportunity to work, and say 'Hey this is what it's like. I like this,' and in particular get involved with a good employer."