Big 3 stars Ricky Davis, Charles Oakley give back in Detroit

DETROIT (WJBK) - They were once huge stars in the NBA but just because they're retired, doesn't mean they're done playing ball. The Big Three Basketball League is in Town at Little Caesar's Arena and they handed free tickets to the community before the games.

Former NBA players Ricky Davis and Charles Oakley stopped by the NSO homeless shelter before the Friday night games to give back before the games.

"We try to do something in every city we go to Big 3 - Just trying to see people happy, a lot of times people can't get a good meal so they're going to get a good meal today," Oakley said.

He was manning the grill while Davis served. They both say they feel blessed to give back.

"Growing up on the streets and seeing everything and seeing that these guys just need a little love sometimes," Davis said.

The Ricky Davis Legacy Foundation partnered with the Oakley Foundation to also passing out toiletries.

"We're lifting them up, we're celebrating them and recognizing that even though they're homeless, they're still human," Detroit City Council Pres Pro-tem Mary Sheffield said.

It wasn't just hot meals. They went from Downtown Detroit up to 7 Mile where a basketball game outside Strictly Sportswear on the city's northwest side was interrupted and tickets were delivered.

Although Big 3 founder Ice Cube, couldn't stop by, he did send his love.

"He said this is his favorite store. He loves strictly." owner Kathy Hamlin said.

All of the kids and the parents are now packing the seats - for free.

The Big 3 is an independent basketball league in its second season. Friday night's games will be on FOX Sports 1 at 7 p.m.