By Patrick Hayes

Jeffrey Eisenband recently wrote a profile about former Flint Northwestern and University of Minnesota star Trent Tucker. Tucker discusses his charity efforts and the infamous ‘Trent Tucker Rule’ in the NBA, but he also mentions the role his hometown played in shaping his life and philanthropic pursuits:

Tucker retired from the NBA in 1993 after winning an NBA title with the Bulls and began planning his own charitable foundation. Dating back to Tucker’s youth, the 52-year-old learned the importance of helping others.

“Growing up in Flint, Mich., it was a very tough environment,” Tucker says. “I was lucky enough to have a mother and father in the house, but also the community was so good in supporting us, and we always had someone in the community, who was willing to step in and help out in a time of need. I asked one of the guys during that time, how could we ever repay you back for what you’ve done for us, and he said if you’re ever in a position to help, just pass on the knowledge, and that stuck with me throughout my entire sports career life.”

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