Aside from the game itself, NBA mascots are the highlight of in-arena performances around the League.

Not just friendly and furry folks, there are real people behind the always-entertaining costumes.

The people who make the mascots come to life are a close-knit bunch, so when Eric McMahon, better known as 'Grizz' of the Memphis Grizzlies, was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in December 2007, his friends knew they needed to do something to show their unity and support. First, it took an honorable move by the Grizzlies organization. To show their support and respect for their mascot, the team decided not to have a replacement mascot and opted to hang up his costume for the season.

Upon hearing the Grizzlies' plan, his mascot friends from around the League came to a consensus. They were going to help, the best way they knew how.

"All the mascots got together and decided they needed to do something for McMahon," Slamson's spokesperson Jaime Morse Mills said. "First they decided to shave their heads to show their support. Then, they went a step further and collectively presented a plan to the Grizzlies that would ensure Grizz was a part of the remainder of the season, 'We know you aren't going to have a mascot replacement for Grizz, so why don’t you let each of us do a home game?'"

The Grizzlies were delighted with the offer and agreed to host 14 different mascots for their home games played between February 2 and the end of the regular season.

On behalf of Maloof Sports & Entertainment, Slamson will take his entertaining act to Memphis on Friday, February 22 as the Grizzlies battle the Mavericks.

"You truly know who your friends are not when you’re at the height of your game but when you’re at your lowest point," Mills said. "I know Grizz is very touched by the gestures of his friends around the League."

As for the reception other mascots have received prior to Slamon's visit, Mills said they have all been very well received. Grizzlies’ fans have really appreciated the opposing mascots’ entertainment value and show of support for Grizz.

Due to travel constraints, Slamson won't be able to bring his entire bag of silliness to the Bluff City, but he does have a few special skits in store.

"With the NBA season being so long, like the players, mascots have to stay sharp," Mills said with a smile. "So it’s actually fun for Slamson to have the opportunity to work a different crowd every once in awhile. What's interesting or what works for one crowd might not work for another crowd and vice versa. So this is a chance for Slamson to do what he does best, have a great time and help those at FedExForum have a great time as well."

Kings Fans who want to show their support for Grizz can purchase a “Friends of Grizz” wristband for $3 from the Grizzlies Den Team Store online at: http://www.memphisgrizzliesstore.com/.

Proceeds from the sale of the wristbands will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The organization has also created a “Friends of Grizz” community program that brings patients and families from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to a game on behalf of Grizz.

Fans can send cards and get well wishes to McMahon, care of Grizz, to 191 Beale Street, Memphis, Tennessee, 38103, or via e-mail at grizz@grizzlies.com. Fans wishing to donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital can log on to www.stjude.org