Several players from the NBA’s New Jersey Nets have purchased several hundred full-season ticket packages, from which tickets to the games will be distributed to literally dozens of youth groups and non-profits so that its members can attend the games.

This is a terrific gesture because tough economic times or not, there are a lot of people who cannot attend a professional sports event and take in the excitement of being with thousands of others and joining in a similar cause, the home team’s win. Kudos to the Nets players and franchise for making this happen. They are sure to have a group of especially happy fans for every game.

The full press release can be found at http://www.nba.com/nets/news/nets_players_purchase_600_nets_2009_10_01.htmland is also included below.  You can learn more about the Nets’ community relations efforts at http://www.nba.com/nets/community/nets_inthe_community.html.

Oct. 1, 2009

Nets Players Purchase 600 Nets Season Tickets for Underprivileged Youth Groups

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – NETS players Devin Harris, Brook Lopez, Yi Jianlian, Eduardo Najera, Keyon Dooling, Rafer Alston, Josh Boone, Trenton Hassell, and Tony Battie will give back to their fans by purchasing a total of 600 full NETS season tickets for the 2009-10 season, which will be distributed to underprivileged youth groups and non-profit organizations in the metropolitan area.

Under the NETS Athlete Assist Program, these tickets will enable kids to attend a NETS game who might not have been able to otherwise.

Each of the groups will be recognized during the game and select groups will have the opportunity to participate in some of the in-game entertainment activities.

“Our players have always been incredibly accessible and generous with their fans, but this year they have stepped up to an even higher level,” said Petra Pope, the NETS Vice President who oversees Community Relations. “We want to thank the players for making a difference in children’s lives.”

Organizations that want to learn if they qualify for the NETS Athlete Assist Program should either go to the Community page on www.njnets.com, call 201-635-3126 or email at crelations@njnets.com.