A few seasons ago, actually during my time with the Philadelphia 76ers and after the birth of my first son, I came across a series of articles that discussed the personal and family lives of professional athletes. Let me just say that the articles and all of the television coverage that followed were not pleasant. They depicted professional athletes as inconsiderate and overpaid "jocks" who spent their time away from their sports consuming alcohol, heavily involved in drugs, and most importantly fathering numerous children without supporting any of them. Knowing my personal values, which were passed on to me from both of my parents, I knew there was a different side to professional athletes. I had already been heavily involved in my own community outreach programs in my hometown of Canton, and also in Philadelphia, so I figured that I would do something to show a different side of today's professional athletes, especially those of us who are fathers. My goal was to offer my fans and supporters a different perspective and another reality. Unfortunately, this is a perspective that is rarely acknowledged or shown, but it is the reality that the vast majority of athletes live on a daily basis. I know this because I am both an athlete and a father. Actually, I am a father and husband first and then an athlete.
I have therefore decided to do my part and respond to the challenge of supporting fathers. I am prepared to share some of my time, resources, and professional status to the development of a variety of community outreach initiatives that will ultimately encourage, reward, and support families in my adopted home of Atlanta, GA, and also in my native home area of Canton, Cleveland, as well as in the surrounding Northeast Ohio region. Now that I am reaching fans, supporters, and neighbors through my new career as a basketball analyst on NBATV, I am confident that I can continue to advocate for men and fathers. With your help and prayers, we can make a difference and help fathers to enjoy more great experiences with their children and families.
Thanks for your support, and please spread the word to your friends.
Father
