March 20, 2017
NEW ORLEANS – On Sunday evening, March 19, 2017 at The Smoothie King Center during the New Orleans Pelicans 123-109 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Pelicans and arena naming rights partner Smoothie King proudly took part in a special on-court presentation which recognized the amazing efforts of the Challenged Athletes Foundation.
“Smoothie King’s mission is to inspire others to live a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Tom O’Keefe, President and COO of Smoothie King. “We are thrilled to donate to the Challenged Athletes Foundation, an organization that gives people with physical challenges the opportunities to also pursue an active lifestyle.”
This season, for each shot blocked by a Pelicans player, Smoothie King has pledged a financial contribution to the Challenged Athletes Foundation via a campaign entitled “Smoothie King Block!” On hand on Sunday from the Challenged Athletes Foundation were Kerry Ellis of Baton Rouge and Michael Lucas of Bogalusa who accepted a donation for a Basketball Wheelchair to the Challenged Athletes Foundation. Ellis and Lucas, both members of the New Orleans Rollin’ Pelicans wheelchair basketball team, accepted the donation for a customized basketball wheelchair.
Thus far this season, the Pelicans have blocked a total of 388 shots, led by NBA All-Star MVP Anthony Davis’ team-leading 2.26 blocks per game average.
About the Challenged Athletes Foundation
It is the mission of the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) to provide opportunities and support to people with physical challenges, so they can pursue active lifestyles through physical fitness and competitive athletics. The Challenged Athletes Foundation believes that involvement in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence and enhances quality of life.