Why former Tennessee basketball guard Jahmai Mashack was back in Knoxville

Former Tennessee basketball guard Jahmai Mashack chose to spend one of his scarce free days off in Knoxville, putting his skills to work for the Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. On August 29, Mashack participated in every step of the food donation process, from handing out fresh produce to local families to taking pictures with fans. He then traveled to a farm partnership with Second Harvest, assisting in food production for those facing hunger in Tennessee.

Mashack, a three-year starter for the Vols, was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2025. Before delving into the logistics of the food bank, he volunteered at Ladies of Charity, an organization in north Knoxville that provides food, personal care items, and other supplies. There, he helped distribute fresh produce such as corn, tomatoes, and watermelon from local farms, before heading to Hickory Corner Farm in Speedwell, Tennessee.

Mashack learned about Second Harvest's Harvesting Hope program, which supports East Tennessee farmers by purchasing directly from them and distributing the goods to those in need.

The importance of charity has been a part of Mashack's life since he was a child growing up in southern California. His mother, Meika, often took the family to feed people in their community during the holidays. After joining the University of Tennessee in 2021, Mashack began donating his money to Second Harvest. While he prefers to keep his charity work private, Second Harvest CEO Rachael Ellis encouraged him to visit Knoxville and meet the people he was helping.

Mashack's involvement with Second Harvest started in 2022 when he visited the facility in Maryville for the first time.

Mashack describes the experience of being in the food bank and meeting the people who need the supplies as different and impactful. He feels it's essential for him to give back to the team, the community, and the relationships he's built. Mashack is on a two-way contract with the Grizzlies, fighting to make the NBA roster full-time. He views his time with the Rockets as a long-term commitment rather than a four-year contract.