Hy-Vee hires NBA star to promote children's health, wellness

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Hy-Vee has hired an NBA player to promote health and fitness among children around the Midwest, the supermarket chain said Wednesday.

Hy-Vee, which operates 233 stores in eight Midwestern states, announced that it hired Iowa native and NBA rookie Harrison Barnes, who will appear at stores and events such as the Hy-Vee Triathlon and Hy-Vee IronKids youth triathlons, encouraging participation in sports and fitness activities while also reaching to the public through social media. Barnes started this past season with the Golden State Warriors, based in Oakland, Calif.

"We've had the privilege of watching Harrison Barnes grow up here in Iowa and go on to succeed at the highest level of his sport," Hy-Vee VP marketing and brand image Donna Tweeten said. "We're proud not only of the things he's accomplished, but also the way in which he's accomplished them — through discipline, drive and determination to be the best he can be. He's a role model who will inspire both kids and adults to achieve their own health and fitness goals."