Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell has been awarded the NBA Cares Community Assist Award for his continued efforts to advance social justice and champion education.
In December, Mitchell pledged $12 million to Greenwich Country Day School, where he and his sister, Jordan, attended and where his mother, Nicole, taught for more than 10 years.
His contribution was the largest single donation in the school’s history and will be used to create the Mitchell Family Scholarship Fund to help students from pre-K-12th grade.
Mitchell’s commitment to advance social justice also led to him being named to the inaugural board of the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition which will “leverage the game’s influence to raise awareness, educate and advocate for meaningful reform, and regularly gives back to those most in need through his SPIDACARES organization.”
“I’m honored to receive the NBA Community Assist Award. We, as athletes, have a responsibility to do our part to give back to our communities and raise the bar for the next generation,” said Mitchell. “Not too long ago I was one of those kids that looked up to professional athletes, and I recognize how blessed I am to be in this position to give back to the multiple communities that have contributed to my growth not only as an athlete but as a person. My goal is to continue to inspire and encourage youth, from coast to coast with an emphasis on the importance of education.”
The 24-year-old is currently in concussion protocol and is questionable to play against the Dallas Mavericks tonight, but he will still be recognized during the game.
In 17 games, Mitchell is averaging 23.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game.
