Tobias Harris already active in Detroit community
Tobias Harris promised Detroit Pistons’ fans, and the community of Detroit, that he would be active in the community. After just two weeks with the Pistons he’s fulfilling that commitment.
In case you are unfamiliar with Tobias Harris, he’s a man that likes to give back to the community.
After just two weeks with the Pistons, he’s already making his appearance felt in Detroit.
"Tobias Harris, the newest Piston, sat in the auditorium at Detroit Osborn Monday afternoon, talking to a group of high school students. It was an off day for the Pistons, but he was out in the community doing something special.“We are here to help you guys,” Harris told the students in one of the roughest areas of the city on Detroit’s east side. “We are here to see you guys be successful. We are here to see you guys, someday, be leaders in this world. We are here to see you guys be successful in whatever you want to do. That could be in sports. That could be in being a doctor or lawyer. That could be in anything you want to do.”A few minutes earlier, the Pistons had announced plans to donate $300,000 over three years to bring City Year, an AmeriCorps program, into Osborn to give these students academic, social and emotional support.“I’m the perfect example of somebody who has been sitting in those seats, just like you guys, in high school, sitting there, wondering what I was going to do when I got older, or what I was going to do in my life,” said Harris, who signed up to be an honorary AmeriCorps member. “One thing all of you guys should be doing is writing down your goals. Everybody here (can) help you reach your goals.”A few feet away, Dave Bing, the former Piston and Detroit mayor, nodded his head.“I love getting involved in the community and with kids and working with you guys,” Harris continued. “Because there is so much potential. You don’t want to waste your potential. You guys all have one basic gift right now, an amazing opportunity to be special.”It was a powerful moment. How many of these kids have ever been told that they could be special? And by a Piston, no less?“The people here today, the organizations, are here to help you do that,” Harris said. “Take full advantage of it. Really make sure you get the best out of whatever you want to do. This is an amazing opportunity for you.”"
Too many times in today’s world athletes are publicized for the wrong reasons. Too many times major sporting organizations overlook player’s character flaws outside of the game, so it’s refreshing to see a player like Harris who values being a role model and an active member in charity.
Credit Stan Van Gundy for looking for guys who are talented, but also good people.
Sure he took a risk on Marcus Morris who had a shady background–a move I initially didn’t approve of for those very reasons–but it looks like the Pistons did their homework, as Morris’ issues appear to have mostly stemmed from being with his brother.
I’m thrilled the Pistons were able to acquire Harris. His talent’s fit exactly what the Pistons needed.
His off the court charitable work makes the deal even sweeter.