A festive mood was apparent at Verizon Center on Thursday as the Washington Wizards kicked off their annual 12 Days of Holiday Cheer. The Acela Club was full of good smells, music and smiling people as 200 seniors from all around Washington D.C. were invited to feast on a holiday luncheon hosted by the Washington Wizards.

The Washington Wizards coaching staff, rookie JaVale McGee and President Ernie Grunfeld were on hand to greet guests, serve lunch, and spread holiday cheer.

“This is a wonderful event,” said Interim Head Coach Ed Tapscott. “It’s really a wonderful opportunity for members of the coaching staff and members of the Wizards organization to share some cheer with some of our senior citizens.”

Washington Wizards assistant coach Phil Hubbard echoed his sentiments.

“We’re in the giving spirit at the Wizards – we’re just trying to help everyone out. I think it’s a great cause.”

As the seniors gathered at tables, laughing, chatting and eating, Washington Wizards senior director of community relations Sashia Jones explained the importance of the annual event.

“The seniors mean a lot to our community,” Jones noted. “You want everybody to feel the cheer around the holidays, and I think our coaches and our front office staff feel the warmth too.”

Betty Bennett from the J.B. Johnson Nursing Center expressed her appreciation for the special afternoon.

“Seniors are often forgotten, so this is a great event,” Bennett expressed. “A little something goes a long way, and this means a lot to the seniors. This is awesome – I could stay here all day.”

The Wizards will continue to spread joy throughout the Washington D.C. community during the month of December. The next event in the 12 Days of Holiday Cheer will take place Saturday, December 6. In partnership with Allied Advertising, the Wizards Wives will host teen mothers and their children from MEI Futures Academy Public Charter School and ladies of the Ascending Girls Program for a performance of “The Wizard of Oz” at the Warner Theater.