Instead of basketball, being athletic and playing in front of large crowds, Kings players Ron Artest and Quincy Douby talked to the students at Grant High School this week about staying focused on education, and life.

The pair visited Grant High School to honor the 2008 Sacramento County Teacher of the year winner, Jeanette Providence.

Both Artest and Douby explained the importance of staying in school. “It’s all about getting your education right now,” said Douby. “If it wasn’t for going to school and taking it seriously, Ron Artest and I wouldn’t be here today.”

Artest explained that Douby didn’t even play basketball until his sophomore year, but because of his love for the game, propelled himself to a first round pick in the NBA. “Because of God, determination and education, Quincy is where he is today,” said Artest. “It took a dedication to wanting to learn.”

Artest and Douby fielded questions from the students and Ms. Providence, who asked about everything from the player’s majors in college, to the feelings they felt when they were drafted in the NBA.

The players talked about the importance of finding real role models in the community who they can relate to. Douby explained that his role model was his high school coach because he took him “under his wing” and kept him focused on his goals.

“You have a teacher in Ms Providence who isn’t giving up on you guys, and she makes sure you get opportunities,” Douby said. “So you have to take advantage of that.”