Fathers of NBA players bring message to Robbins
Fathers of NBA players bring message to Robbins
BY TIA CAROL JONES
Fathers of NBA players visited Robbins to participate in a forum, which brought youth from the community together with local politicians and others with the goal of inspiring the youth.
The NBA Fathers Network is a group of fathers of NBA players who travel throughout the country and speak at events. Dwyane Wade, Sr. is the father of retired NBA player Dwyane Wade. “My son went to the NBA. He’s accomplished something that is beyond great,” he said. “We’ve all been a part of the community for so many years.”
Charles Paul, who is the father of Oklahoma City Thunder player Chris Paul, said he wanted to support Dwyane Wade’s father. “He’s a part of us. He let us know what it would mean for us to come here for this event,” Paul said referring to Dwyane Wade’s father.
Paul said he understands the fathers that are a part of the group have the opportunity to make a positive impact.
“These kids might not get a chance to see our sons in person, they might see our sons on TV, but they will see us,” Paul said. “We know we are truly blessed to be in the position we are in.”
Ed Gordon is the father of Aaron Gordon, who plays for the Orlando Magic, and Drew Gordon, who plays professional basketball in Poland. Gordon said having a son that plays for the NBA is wonderful, for the most part.
“It’s pretty surreal. It’s higher highs and lower lows,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun. It’s a roller coaster.”
Gordon said he always wants his sons to do well in their careers. “We like to try and get out into the community and have the young men see fathers and father figures,” he said. “We just want to reach out and pass on a positive message.”
Part of that message, said Wendell Carter Sr., father of Wendell Carter, Jr., who plays for the Chicago Bulls, is to stay humble and don’t get caught up in material things. “Don’t change your lifestyle,” Carter, Sr. added.
Gary Harris is the father of Gary Harris, who plays for the Denver Nuggets. Harris said he came to support Wade and his father.
“We go around the country and reach back, to be an inspiration to these kids. We’re reachable and we can relate,” he said. “Any inner-city area reminds me of where I come from.”
Anthony Randolph is the father of Anthony Randolph, Jr., who plays professional basketball in Madrid, Spain. “We want to let them know there are men out there who care about them, there are positive role models out there,” Randolph said. “We hope at least one child gets inspiration from us, has a productive life and follows their dreams.”
Robbins Mayor Tyrone Ward welcomed the fathers coming to the community.
“This is a great step forward in our attempts to eliminate the fatherless children crisis in our communities. Hearing from these dads of their positive steps as well as their challenges in raising young boys is a great boost for fathers
everywhere,” Ward said in a release.
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