Don’t Hit the Wall

It is that time of year where the rookies are beginning to hit the so called, “wall” that they often do at this point in the season.  As a rookie in the Community Investment (CI) department, I also am trying to jump over the, “wall”, not hit it.  The CI department has been busy with many events in the past couple of weeks.  The CI staff worked with Grizzlies players Mike Conley, Kyle Lowry, Rudy Gay, and Hakim Warrick distributing shoes to Memphis youth at STREETS Ministries.  The Grizzlies worked in conjunction with Samaritans Feet, a philanthropic organization that strives to provide shoes for people around the world.  Samaritans Feet engages in many other programs, such as one that connects students from around the world to create a mutually beneficial learning experience.  For more information visit samaritansfeet.org.

MLK day was an exciting day.  It was moving to have had the chance to be a part of the pageantry of the occasion, and especially considering the energy in the air was palpable due to the eagerly anticipated inauguration of Barack Obama.  Prior to the game, I was standing in the first row for one of my duties and the next thing I know, recording artist Brandy is standing right next to me.  That was definitely cool to say that I have been a few inches away from someone that has sold millions of CDs.

This season, I started managing the Honorary Ball Kid program.  For several of the games, a kid is selected as the Ball Kid.  They have the unique opportunity to engage in activities that young fans would not otherwise be able to.  The first few times I helped out with the Ball Kid I felt like I was more excited than the kids were.  During warm-ups, I chaperon the Ball Kid down to the court where they help rebound for the team.  This is outstanding, because not only do I and the Ball Kid get to be a few feet from the Grizzlies, we get to have an up-close view of opposing players such as Kobe Bryant and Carmelo Anthony.  I am confident that former Ball Kids would agree the best part is meeting the Grizzlies after the game for pictures and autographs.

In any event, I and the CI department look forward to the rest of the season, continuing to work to reach out to the Mid-South community.  Also, it is worth mentioning that all of my interactions with the players have been positive ones.  These guys have all jumped in and been great stewards of what the NBA sets out to do in the community.  The Grizzlies players really enjoy helping out and it always leads to a great number of smiles.