A Holiday Tradition Wrapped With Full Carts, Full Hearts
by Jimmy Do | okcthunder.com Photography by Zach Beeker (OKC Thunder)Holiday Assist is presented by Cox Communications
Fueled by idled anticipation and spellbinding excitement, the antsy boys and girls were gripping the signature red Target shopping carts as if revving up for a race at the starting line. They were moments away from fulfilling every kid’s holiday dream: the once-in-a-lifetime chance to check off every coveted item on the Christmas wish list. And to make things even sweeter, the children had some shopping help from none other than the entire Oklahoma City Thunder team—not to mention Rumble the Bison and the Thunder Girls to add to the rip-roaring fun for good measure. Filled with warm hugs, high fives, big grins and commemorative selfies, the Thunder hosted the all-team Holiday Assist Target Shopping Spree going nine-year strong in partnership with the retailer and Sunbeam Family Services through the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program on Wednesday.
To some of the players, this was a familiar December pastime of providing a reprieve for the families on hand experiencing hardship. To the first-timers on the roster, this was a chance to not only give back, but also share in the heartwarming tradition with their teammates. “Walking around, seeing all my teammates and bonding with these kids to make their day, it’s awesome,” said Domas Sabonis. “Everything they want, we’re giving it to them and making them happy.”
For Erin Engelke, Sunbeam Family Services chief external relations officer, the opportunity was crucial to not only treat the kids, but also to stock up on basic necessities that went beyond the holidays for these grandparents. “These are grandparents raising their grandchildren and they sacrificed so much to raise these kids,” said Engelke. “For them to have this chance of a lifetime to shop with the Thunder players and the Thunder Girls, this is an experience they will never forget.” Buoyed by the unflagging energy and never-ending buzz generated from this year’s Holiday Assist blitz, the merry shoppers disappeared into the aisles for a rush of outrageous fun, holiday cheer and unforgettable moments.
Backcourt mates tip off the shopping blitz. This year saw some first-timers of the event including Victor Oladipo working with shopping veterans like Russell Westbrook.
All smiles. 10-year-old twins Jaylon (left) and Jazmine (right) could not contain their giddiness when Westbrook was announced as their personal shopping assistant.
New faces, familiar tradition. Domas Sabonis delivers a Holiday Assist to Anthony, 6, in finding the right size for a hoodie to get through the cooler temps of the season in style.
Santa 'Stache is back again. "It's good for us to reach out and getting the opportunity to help them," said Steven Adams.
A dream come true. Thankful grandparent Ethel Brannon: "This will be a day I will never forget. It was great. It was wonderful. They've been very, very kind to me."
Taking charge of the shopping. Kobi, 6, leads the gift-getting expedition with cousin Cody, 7. "This little girl is so funny, man. 90 percent of what we're going to buy was because of her," said Joffrey Lauvergne.
Sharing the Thunder spirit. "It's cool to be here and share the Thunder spirit. It's priceless to see everyone smiling," said Enes Kanter.
Serenading shoppers with his golden pipes. "It's pretty cool to give back like this. We're having a good time and we're just getting started." said Oladipo. Hear it.
Retail therapy with Cameron. 6-year-old Johnnie on shopping with Cameron Payne: "It feels good because I got a whole bunch of stuff. I like him so much I don't want to stop."
Checking off the list. Thunder Girl Jennie and a young shopper are on the hunt in the toy aisle.
Making wishes come true. Jerami Grant was able to help this young bookworm get her favorite titles from the Dork Diaries and The Baby-Sitters Club series.
Full video: Thunder Makes Holiday Wishes Come True