Sixers Game Preview

Sixers celebrate Thanksgiving with families in need at the Liacouras Center

Click to view the photogallery.

The Sixers held a Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday night at the Liacouras Center to benefit families living in the Philadelphia Housing Authority. Players Willie Green, Kareem Rush, Reggie Evans, and Marreese Speights joined the effort to reach out to the community by serving Thanksgiving Dinner to the families.

"It's just a blessing that I’m in a position that I can actually give back to someone. Especially in the tough economic time we’re in, to help out people who may be less fortunate - it’s always a great reward to be able to give back," Green said.

Each guest at the dinner was given a special care package including a ticket to an upcoming Sixers game among other items. The night was filled with smiles and joy as citizens of the community joined together to break bread with their favorite NBA players and share what they were thankful for.

"To have these people come out today shows a lot of spirit. Even on a rainy day like today where it’s about to snow outside, there’s a lot of warmth in here,” said Ambassador of 76ers Basketball World B. Free.

Spirits were lifted as the Sixers organization provided a night of interaction with the players, Sixers Dancers, and beloved mascot Hip Hop.

"I think this is one of the most useful things they could’ve done for underprivileged children,” said Rose Marie Bryant, Resident Leader and Volunteer with the Philadelphia Housing Authority. “It does my heart good to see the Sixers making kids happy, and encouraging them to succeed so maybe they can grow up to be the next 76er."

Meals were served, door prizes were given and many had the opportunity to share with the room what they were most thankful for as the holiday season approaches.

"I'm thankful for their service," said resident Ronald Davis. "These children don’t have an opportunity like this come around often. It’s just good to see them serve the children - it shows fans how much the team appreciates us when they give back like this."

The tone of the night was set after dinner when player photo opportunities arose and a spontaneous dance party broke out, as guests enjoyed themselves and moved to the music.

"Words can’t describe how it makes me feel to see this event tonight," Free said. “To see the guys out here just helping and serving people of the community, and to give them an opportunity for a Thanksgiving dinner with the Sixers that they wouldn’t otherwise have is wonderful."

The focus of the night was on the many kids in attendance who undoubtedly experienced one of the highlights of their years.

"It made me feel famous to have the Sixers serve dinner to me," said 10-year-old Dyone Pickett of West Philadelphia. "I got two autographs and I got to hang out with Hip Hop. I don’t think I could have a better Thanksgiving than that!"

Reggie Evans felt grateful for the opportunity to help in this event.

"We don’t have an NBA team where I come from. It's definitely a motivation to the kids, and my hope is that it's a motivation for them to want to give back, too. It's not something you do just to kill time. It’s meaningful and it’s something that’s fun while you’re doing it, and seeing how much your service means to everyone."

The Sixers would like to say a special thank you to the following:

Alan Giannone - Village Catering
www.villagecatering.com

The Liacouras Center