More Than Just A Basketball Player

Andre Emmett was always about family. He loved his mom and his sister and his little girls more than anything else.

Andre Emmett was more than just a basketball player. Basketball was his career not who he was. He was gifted on the hardwood. He made plays and created highlights that inspired. His greatest gift, however, was using his basketball skills to give back. Andre was a natural leader and kids admired him not only for how he played the game, but for how he took the time to show them how to play it correctly. He also went the next step and instilled values to these kids along the way. Andre Emmett was always about family. He loved his mom and his sister and his little girls more than anything else. His support system of family and close friends allowed him to live his basketball dreams and in return he always gave back to the communities that raised him to be a man of character.

From the playgrounds of Dallas, to Carter High School, to Texas Tech University, Andre carried the pride of his family and friends with him. He refused to let them down. As an All American, as an NBA player with the Grizzlies and the Nets he always reached back. As an representative of the USA playing literally all over the world, Andre always came back home to tell stories and inspire. He was a bright light gone too soon. He was taken from his family and friends much too soon but his impact will never be forgotten. His power was his example he set for those who dreamed big dreams and small dreams. Yes you can, because I did it too.

~Chris Arnold