Trevor Ariza Gives Back Big Time

You hear a lot of stories about basketball stars giving back to their communities, but Trevor Ariza made sure that his community in Los Angeles would be well taken care of.

Houston Rockets small forward Trevor Ariza may have suffered defeat in the Western Conference finals this year, but he was the true winner this weekend for the successful launch of his 1st Ariza Elevated Game Awards.

With home always being on the forefront of campaigns players are a part of off the court, it was great to see Ariza back in action where he loves to be most.

Home sweet home.

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Los Angeles.

Ariza kicked off his Community Weekend in style, with an action-packed celebrity basketball game on Saturday.

Celebrities such as Terrell Owens, Layzie Bone, Casper Smart, and Robert Riley laced up their shoes and participated in the charity game in front of a sold out crowd at Cleveland High School.

Ariza created the star studded celebrity game in hopes that it will raise awareness for his new youth-based non-profit organization, Ariza Elevated Game Awards, or AEGA.

I had a chance to catch up with Ariza prior to the game, and he had this to say about the event’s inception:

"Anytime you’re in a position to give back, its a must and something you have to do. For everyone to come out and support it, is just unbelievable.I’m just very thankful and happy that everyone can see what we’re trying to do, and what we’re trying to do for our community.Trevor Ariza"

This is a community that Ariza holds very dear to his heart. Ariza graduated from Westchester High School in Los Angeles, prior to shining on UCLA’s basketball team.

Although he’s been playing professional basketball for the last 11 years, he has never forgot where he’s come from. Ariza is committed to further developing his community, which is why he started AEGA.

The very true essence of the AEGA, as described on their website, is about inspiring and motivating the youth that you cannot give up.

You must continue fighting.

You have to keep going, keep studying, keep training hard because one day it will all pay off.

Ariza was quick to show gratitude for all those that came out to support him.

One of those supporters, ex-NFL star Terrell Owens, was ecstatic to come out and offer his support.

"We’re here for a great cause, Team Ariza. I’m here to support his involvement with the community and its all about giving back.Terell Owens"

Overall it was a successful weekend, and most importantly, it was an inspiring weekend for all those that participated.