The NBA has announced Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu as the recipient of the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for November. This honor recognizes Okongwu’s dedication to supporting individuals and families navigating grief, a mission close to his heart. In collaboration with Atlanta-based organizations, Okongwu provided encouragement, donated Hawks merchandise, tickets, and sports equipment, and engaged directly with the community. As part of the award, Okongwu will receive the David Robinson trophy, and the NBA will donate $10,000 to Kate’s Club, a nonprofit that empowers children, teens, and families coping with the loss of a loved one.
Okongwu’s commitment to this cause is deeply personal. At the age of 13, he lost his older brother, Nnamdi, in a skateboarding accident. The bond between the two was inseparable, and Nnamdi’s legacy as a standout basketball player continues to inspire Okongwu’s career. Since entering the NBA, Okongwu has faced additional losses, including the passing of his father, Mike, and his close friend, Daniel. These experiences have fueled his passion for helping others cope with grief.
In recognition of Children’s Grief Awareness Month in November, Okongwu partnered with the Visiting Nurse Health System to support Camp STARS (Sharing Together As Real Support), an annual bereavement retreat in Georgia serving individuals from ages 2 to 66. At the camp, Okongwu shared personal welcome letters with participants, created video content discussing his experiences with loss, and donated prizes for the camp’s raffle.
Just before Thanksgiving, Okongwu joined Kate’s Club for their clubhouse experience, connecting with teens who have lost loved ones. As a longtime partner of Kate’s Club since his rookie season, he has provided game tickets, shared his story at their fundraising gala, and contributed to building a playground for the organization. During the clubhouse visit, Okongwu participated in group activities, shared coping strategies, and led basketball drills. Additionally, he donated basketball equipment and other Hawks-themed prizes.
“Losing a loved one can be hard, and I know that from first-hand experience,” said Okongwu. “I have been fortunate to find organizations doing the important work of helping people work through their grief—something that I wish I had along my journey. It is an honor to partner with Kate’s Club and Camp STARS in their efforts, and I look forward to continuing to make an impact in this area.”
Okongwu will be recognized as the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner during the Hawks’ Dec. 28 game against the Miami Heat. Atlanta Hawks General Manager Landry Fields will present the award in a special in-game ceremony.
The NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award honors the late Bob Lanier, a longtime NBA Cares Ambassador and League Office executive. Lanier’s legacy of kindness and global impact continues through this recognition of players dedicated to uplifting their communities. The monthly award recipients, such as Okongwu, receive the David Robinson trophy and direct donations to a charity or foundation of their choice.
To learn more about the NBA Cares Community Assist Award, visit communityassist.nba.com.
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