Wichita ? The NBA lockout proved to be a blessing for some Wichita residents.

Washington Wizards forward Maurice Evans spent some of his free time in his hometown Tuesday, delivering 500 turkeys as part of the NBA’s Great Turkey Giveaway. He handed out turkeys at a Boys & Girls Club.

Evans played basketball at Wichita Collegiate, Wichita State University and the University of Texas. He’s played in the NBA for seven years, last season with the Wizards.

The Wichita Eagle reports reports that Evans said the players association usually distributes the turkeys in cities with NBA franchises. But he suggested some of the turkeys could go this year to players’ communities.

Evans, vice president of the National Basketball Players Association, said he remains hopeful that season will resume.