RACINE (WITI) -- The Milwaukee Bucks have had a busy off-season making moves so their roster is ready for their season opener on the road on October 30th in New York. Caron Butler is one of the Bucks' new faces, and was introduced by the team last week.
After 12 seasons in the NBA, an NBA championship and two All-Star game appearances, Butler is back where he belongs -- in his native state of Wisconsin, playing for the team he grew up watching -- the Milwaukee Bucks.
Butler chose to have his news conference at Park High School in Racine, where he attended. It was quite the homecoming. The gym was packed with students, fans and Butler's family.
For Butler, the opportunity to play in his home state made him emotional.
"You know, I'm a little emotional. I definitely am. Y'all see me crying at press conferences and all them things all the time -- Draft Night, but it's a different emotion now, because it's a dream come true. It's something I always dreamed about and thought about -- and I never thought it would happen, so it's special," Butler said.
Butler is special to the Bucks, because of his community involvement and veteran status, the front office and coaching staff feel he will be a leader on the roster.
The hopes are high for Butler, but his mindset says it all.
"It's all about legacy, and leaving your stamp on the game the right way, and this is a great way to do it, and a great situation. I feel like I can prosper in this situation and I'm grateful for it," Butler said.
Butler has returned to Racine almost every year since he's been a pro to run skills camps and tournaments. He also started the Caron Butler Foundation in 2010, which honors students who exemplify Butler's principles of determination, dedication and discipline.