On Wednesday, the Washington Wizards kept up a tradition that began over 20 years ago when Andray Blatche, JaVale McGee, Dominic McGuire, Oleksiy Pecherov, DeShawn Stevenson, Nick Young, Interim Head Coach Ed Tapscott, G-Wiz, and several members of the Wizards organization traveled around the Metropolitan D.C. area handing out presents to families in need.

"Family to family actually started almost 20 years ago with Wes Unseld," said Senior Vice President of Community Relation, Judy Holland. "He wanted to come up with an event that would involve his family and the community to make sure everyone had a wonderful Christmas. So it has really evolved over the years and it is one of our favorite events because it has such a personal touch on families. We go out and shop for the gifts. We wrap the gifts. We make sure they get what they want and the players really get into it."

The event began following practice, as the Wizards hopped on a bus and traveled around to four houses where the players were greeted with big smiles, happy children and hugs from the recipients.

"It is the holiday season and we want to make sure we share the Holiday Cheer with the rest of the community," said Interim Head Coach Ed Tapscott who also participated in the event last season. "The Wizards have been very involved in helping families in the Metropolitan D.C. area. To be able to bring some smiles to young children's faces during this time is a very very special thing. We are enjoying it immensely and you can see the players really get into and have a great time at this event."

Oleksiy Pecherov, who was experiencing his first Family to Family, echoed his coach's sentiments.

"It's great to make families happy and see them smile when you give them presents. All the families are so excited and it really means something to all of them to have us here and make their holiday a happy one."

While the families were the ones receiving the gifts, it was hard to see who was enjoying the experience more as the players were interacting from the moment they entered the house with Nick Young even playing video games with one of the kids.

"I'm really excited about getting to participate in this event," said Young. "It is always good to give back and see the joy on their faces when we go into the house. I am having a great time right now with my teammates and the Wizards organization."

The 12 Days of Holiday Cheer will take place between Dec. 4- Dec. 20, and have been designated to help provide assistance to the youth, homeless and underserved in the D.C. metropolitan area. For more information on the 12 Days of Holiday Cheer please click here.