“Jump Ball” raises the roof, raises money for Phoenix Suns Charities

The Phoenix Suns Charities Jump Ball never fails at becoming one of the most enjoyable charity galas of the year. And this year at Talking Stick Resort, the hoops-themed evening helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to help Arizona children while providing some exceptional entertainment.
More than 700 people packed a white-curtain-enclosed ballroom at the resort to celebrate with the Suns players and raise funds to support children’s causes.
The current Suns roster is a mix of established veterans and hungry young players — so while several of the veterans had experienced the vibe at previous galas, it was the first time at a Jump Ball for a number of the rookies.
Suns forward Marquese Chriss is in his first year in the National Basketball Association, but he has already gotten his start in doing work in the community.
“I like it a lot,” he said of the team’s community involvement. “Earlier in the season we went and built a playground, and I thought that was pretty big time. We’re just trying to show our face in the community as much as we can and show our support, and that we care. We have people everywhere who are willing to help.”
Chriss said that one of his goals in his own charitable involvement is going to be helping children in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.
“It means a lot for kids like that to see us and to know that they have a little bit of hope and people are out there caring for them,” Chriss said.
On the other end of the spectrum, forward Jared Dudley, who returned to the team for this season after first coming to the Suns in 2008, had been to several Jump Ball events.
“It’s good that in a fun but stressful environment like the NBA, we get to have a night to come in and dress up and relax and give back to the community,” he said. “The big thing for us is to come and interact with everyone and try to raise as much money as possible.”
As a veteran, Dudley is looked up to by the younger players on the team, a trait that carries over to actions off the court.
“I always tell young guys to do things that affect you,” he said. “For me, Boys & Girl’s Clubs were huge in my upbringing, so I try to do something for them every year. As I’m older and have kids, it’s hospitals, where you see kids going through so many unfortunate things. It’s always good to show your face because a smile goes a long way.”
The event itself got off to a raucous start with a performance by the featured artist, Grammy-award winning singer and rapper Shaggy. After ripping through a set of crowd favorites, Suns leadership addressed the audience to thank them for their positive contribution to the community.
Sarah Krahenbuhl, Executive Director of Phoenix Suns Charities, quoted the evening’s featured performed in describing how the community is making a difference through Phoenix Suns Charities — “In the words of our new friend Shaggy, only love conquers all!”
“Time and time again, I have heard Coach Watson talk about family,” Krahenbuhl said. “You have to be close knit to win on floor, and off the floor you have to take care of each other. It’s the same way in our community. W are all family, and tonight we celebrate the part of our family we work hardest to help — the children of Arizona.
Suns Head Coach Earl Watson said that the team’s chemistry on the court carries over to how it works out in the community as well.
“When we talk to our players we talk about being involved in community, getting involved to help the kids of tomorrow,” Watson said. “Everything we do is important in building a bridge to our community.”
Jason Rowley, President of the Suns, presented the Corporate Partner Award to Fry’s Food Stores for their support of Phoenix Suns Charities, and said the support of the people in the room was critical to the organization meeting its mission.
“This entire room is full of people working hard and giving back to people in need,” he said.
Managing Partner Robert Sarver took center stage in leading the live auction at the event, and with the help of the players they created a buzz in the room that led to tens of thousands of dollars in contributions.
“I love this event because it reminds me how special Phoenix Suns Charities is, and how important it is to be part of a community and be committed to giving back,” Sarver said.
But then it was back to the entertainment, with one more roof-raising set by Shaggy and a little more, um, unpolished performance by the Suns rookies finishing off the evening’s festivities.