"Hasheem Thabeet's late father, Thabit Manka, instilled in his son the belief that if he was good to others, he would grow up to do great things.

That explains why the Grizzlies' second-year center from Tanzania is proud to be taking part in the NBA's Basketball Without Borders Africa camp in Dakar, Senegal.

Thabeet, Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins and several other NBA players arrived in Africa Thursday and will be there until Monday. While in Senegal, they will help coach the top 60 19-under players from Africa, as well as participate in several community-service events.

"I'm doing this for (my dad) right now," Thabeet said. "I don't have words to explain it.

"Several years ago, I was invited to this camp and I ended up coming to the U.S. to pursue my high school education. I'm happy, and I'm excited. This is a great opportunity. I'm from the same lifestyle these kids are coming from. Right now, giving back is just great. Hopefully, I'll get to come out here for the next one and more to come." "