The Riekes Center Announces the Arrival of Hasheem Thabeet from the University of Connecticut

April 24, 2009 - PRLog -- MENLO PARK, CA – The Riekes Center for Human Enhancement, announced today the arrival of Hasheem Thabeet, the 7’3” All American Center from the University of Connecticut. His arrival comes just days after his announcement to join the NBA Draft, bringing much excitement and eagerness to watch his skills in action.  Hasheem will begin training for the upcoming NBA Draft, along with other players, at The Riekes Center.

The Riekes Center is honored to have such an experienced player as Hasheem Thabeet in their court.  The Riekes Center strives to create a non-judgmental, safe and supportive environment which Hasheem is sure to appreciate.  And as thrilled as Thabeet will be to advance to the next level, folks will be equally excited in Menlo Park, Ca. just to get a glimpse of this rising star.

About Hasheem Thabeet: Born Hashim Thabit Manka on February 16, 1987 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.  Hasheem Thabeet is a college basketball player for the University of Connecticut Huskies, in the USA.  At 7'3" and 263 lbs, Thabeet is the tallest player ever to play for the Huskies.  He did not begin to play basketball until the age of 15, when he began to watch pickup games in Tanzania.  As a junior at the University of Connecticut, Thabeet emerged on the national scene, averaging 13.6 points and 10.8 rebounds.  He earned his first career triple-double against Providence College on January 31, 2009, with 15 points, 11 rebounds and 10 blocks.  Thabeet surpassed the 1,000 point mark against Purdue on March 26, 2009.  Thabeet is projected to be a first round selection in the 2009 NBA Draft after deciding to forgo his final year of eligibility.

About The Riekes Center for Human Enhancement: The Riekes Center for Human Enhancement is a nonprofit mentoring organization that utilizes a multidisciplinary approach. Started by Gary Riekes in the late 1970s, the center emphasizes self-esteem and transferable life skills.  The mission of the Riekes Center is to help students define and accomplish their goals and interests through Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, and Nature Awareness; and to improve their character, self-confidence, and peer relationships.  Now impacting more than 4000 kids with over 28 programs, the organization fosters an environment of mutual respect and encouragement.  For more information on The Riekes Center for Human Enhancement, please visit: www.riekes.org or contact the Executive Director, Gary Riekes at (650) 298-3413 or griekes@riekes.org

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The mission of the Riekes Center is to help students define and accomplish their goals and interests through Athletic Fitness, Creative Arts, and Nature Awareness; and to improve their character, self-confidence, and peer relationships.