Throughout his professional career, which spans 16 years and seasons, LeBron James has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all times. But, even with three NBA championships and Finals MVP awards, four NBA MVPs, 14 All-Star appearances, three All-Star MVPs, two Olympic Gold Medals an NBA scoring title, and much more, the baller’s most important accomplishment to date is opening a new school in his hometown of Akron, Ohio.
“Besides having three kids and marrying my wife, putting my mom in a position where she never has to worry about anything again for the rest of her life, this is right up there,” James said last year, of his new public school. “Championships, MVPs, I mean points, rebounds and assists, that stuff if whatever. But for me to be able to open up a school and give back to my inner city for so many kids that I know because I was those kids.”
James’ “I Promise,” school opened in July, in collaboration with the LeBron James Family Foundation and Akron Public School, servicing 240 schools in grades three and four. Set to expand to all grade by 2020, the school offers free bikes, meals and college tuition, giving struggling and underprivileged students and families a better opportunity to succeed.
Now, as a result of his good deed, James has been crowned this year’s honoree for the Offseason NBA Cares Community Assist Award.
“Kaiser Permanente and the NBA are honoring James for his commitment to creating long-term, generational change throughout Northeast Ohio by providing both youth and their parents with year-round educational and wellness resources,” the NBA said in a statement.
As a result of the award, according to Sports Illustrated, Kaiser Permanente, alongside the NBA, will donate $10,000 on James’ behalf to his foundation, as part of continued efforts to build and expand the new school.
Congratulations to LeBron James!
