Tyreke Evans sports a vest on the USO tour
This past week, Tyreke Evans took a weeklong tour in Hawaii with the USO to show support for the troops. Tyreke joined seven other top names in basketball—Derrick Rose, D.J. Augustin, Al Horford, Robin Lopez, Brook Lopez, JaVale McGee, and Mike Miller—on the tour. Throughout the week, the stars led basketball clinics for children, toured military facilities, and played one-on-one with service members. The players also faced off in two intense games, with Tyreke scoring the winning point in one of them! I talked with Tyreke just after he returned and asked him a few questions about his experience.
Why did you get involved with the USO Hoops for Troops?
I got involved to support the troops and families who give up so much for the freedom we enjoy.
Tyreke jumps to make a shot during one of the USO games. Photo courtesy of the USO.
What was your favorite part of the trip?
I liked talking to the troops about their war experiences. Most of the guys I talked to were around my age.
How did you like playing in the basketball games while you were there?
It was an honor to perform for our troops.
I saw some pictures of the players trying on military gear. What were you doing?
We played a simulated game at the barracks. Brook Lopez put on the armor piercing suit and got bit by the attack dog like they do in training.
Did you get to meet anyone in particular that stood out?
One of the wives told me that I was her husband’s favorite player. I played basketball with their son at the kids’ clinic, and she said her husband was currently stationed overseas and would be happy to hear about this.
What was the overall experience like for you?
I was a baby when my brother, Doc, served in Desert Storm. This made me appreciate him even more now that I’m older and understand what these troops do for the love of our country.
Check out some more photos from the event below.
Tyreke gathers with troops and other players while in Hawaii. Photo courtesy of the USO.
Tyreke and other NBA stars hold a basketball clinic for children. Photo courtesy of the USO.
Tyreke and the other NBA players gather around a tank. Photo courtesy of the USO.
The children practice drills during a basketball clinic.
Tyreke signs autographs at one of the USO games.
For more information about the USO, to learn more about Hoops for Troops, or to see more photos of the tour, visit the USO homepage.
About Tyreke Evans and VSP Vision Care:
VSP Vision Care is proud to be the exclusive eyecare and eyewear provider for Tyreke Evans. Tyreke plays professional basketball for the Sacramento Kings and was named 2010 Rookie of the Year. He’s the fourth rookie ever to average 20 points, 5 assists and 5 rebounds per game. The only other players to accomplish this were Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Not only is good vision a critical component for being successful in sports, it’s also an important part of every day life. Be sure to follow VSP Vision Care on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with Tyreke’s Activities.
