Today was the 4th Annual Santa Cuz Shopping Spree hosted by DeMarcus Cousins. It's an event where Big Cuz invites children to come and purchase gifts for themselves or family members. It's a wonderful time for all who come and a very generous gesture by the Kings big man. I remember going to last year's event and seeing all the happy kids. I couldn't wait to experience that again this year at Arden Fair Mall.
The fine folks from the Kings partnered with DeMarcus for this event as part of their Do Good campaign. There were so many volunteers who came out for this... we could barely fit in the area that was designated for us in the mall. Huge props to everyone who organized this though - it couldn't have been easy! Everything went smoothly and seemingly without a hitch.
Volunteers at the event had the chance to pair up with a child and take them shopping. Kings staff from all different departments of the organization were on hand to help the kids go shopping for gifts.
This was definitely an event to remember. A lot of the families were snapping photos and selfies of their experience. It was awesome seeing all the smiles around!
Not to be left out, the Sacramento Kings Dance Team brought six representatives out to join in on the holiday fun! The dancers were greeting fans and taking photos with them as well as helping out with the shopping. The SKD did a little bit of everything... and of course did it with style!
When DeMarcus arrived a huge crowd formed around him. He was definitely the center of attention at the mall yesterday. But even though there were so many distractions, cameras, and things going on, DeMarcus had his focus completely on the kids he invited to the event. He took the time to talk to the kids and share some of his time with them.
It was awesome to see DeMarcus with the children. As intimidating and beastly as he is on the court, he's the exact opposite when talking with fans and the people around him off the court. It's a side of DeMarcus that many don't get to see because it's just not covered as much... which is too bad! DeMarcus has been an amazing part of the Sacramento community, and that's something that should be recognized more.
DeMarcus was signing shirts, taking photos, and checking out the gifts that the kids bought. That was actually my favorite part of the event - seeing the kids show DeMarcus what they got. DeMarcus really is Santa Cuz!!! Actually, now that I think about it, I've never seen Santa and DeMarcus together at the same time...
Huge thanks to DeMarcus Cousins and Kings Community for putting this event on. I was honored to have the chance to cover it and partake in the joy that it brought to Sacramento!
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