"Zach Randolph is often credited for having a big heart and the Grizzlies' All-Star power forward invites you to see it smile.

That's how Randolph describes the feeling of giving back to the community during the holiday season. It's with a smiling heart and a humble background that Randolph has played Z-Bo Claus to help make Christmas bright for hundreds of underprivileged children in Greater Memphis.

Randolph, a Marion, Ind., native, is 29 and rich with NBA talent. However, he hasn't forgotten his childhood as the kid who used to routinely sleep on the floor as one of four kids growing up in a two-bedroom house.

"I can understand. People can relate to me because I came from an environment like this," Randolph said. "I've had adversity and overcame it. I've been knocked down and bounced back up.

"I was one of those kids. People were bringing me and my brother gifts from the Angel Tree. We used to be like 'Wow.' It didn't matter where it came from; we just liked getting gifts. And no NBA players ever came to my 'hood. I never got to see any or meet any. I know if I did, it would have made my day."

Randolph was busy Wednesday spreading holiday cheer and his message of hope.

His day began with a national television appearance on CNN's "American Morning" to talk about his charitable work. After practice, Randolph stopped by the Salvation Army Women's Shelter and distributed toys to more than 50 kids."