2/14/2009 NBA Cares & Cooks, All Star Weekend, Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, AZ


 12 years ago today...

February 14, 2009 - Phoenix, AZ 

Chefs from top local restaurants teamed with former pro basketball greats to raise money for hunger relief at the inaugural NBA Cares & Cooks event.

Phoenix was hosting the NBA All Star Game for the third time.  The night before the game, this event blended signature menu samples with basketball celebrities and charity auction at Phoenix Convention Center.

Each grazing/drinking station featured a local chef with a special dish to taste, a wine pairing and a former NBA player to meet & greet.

JoJo White, Dominique Wilkins, David Thompson, George Gervin, Spencer Haywood, Tom Chambers and Eddie Johnson were among the NBA alumni.  Vincent's, Phoenician, Elements and Arizona Biltmore were some of the restaurants participating.  This was a delicious way to enjoy Valentine's Day and be part of the All Star Weekend festivities without attending the game.

Confined to a wheelchair from cancer treatments, pro player-turned-jazz bassist Wayman Tisdale introduced his band as the musical entertainment.  The basketball world was stunned and saddened when the popular player and recording artist died just 90 days later.





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