Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu has done good work on the court. Now, the NBA has recognized him for his good deeds off the court.
On Monday, the league announced that the 24-year-old won the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for the month of November. The award honors NBA legend Bob Lanier, an NBA League Office executive and NBA Cares Ambassador for more than 30 years.
Last month, Okongwu worked with Atlanta nonprofits to help those who have lost loved ones. He donated Hawks’ merchandise, tickets and sports equipment to the community.
For his efforts, Okongwu earned the David Robinson trophy. As a part of the award, the NBA will donate $10,000 to Kate’s Club – an organization dedicated to empowering children and teens, their families and young adults following the death of a parent, sibling, caregiver, or someone important to them. Okongwu has partnered with the organization since he was a rookie.
“Losing a loved one can be hard and I know that from firsthand experience. I have been fortunate to find organizations who are doing the important work of helping people work through their grief - something that I wish I had along my journey,” Okongwu said in a statement. “It is an honor for me partner with Kate’s Club and Camp STARS in their efforts. I look forward to continuing to make an impact in this area.”
Okongwu has dealt with the loss of a sibling and parent in his life. His brother Nnamadi Okongwu passed away from a skateboarding accident when Onyeka was 13 years old. Just two years into his NBA career, his father Mike Okongwu passed away. One season later, the Hawks center lost a close friend unexpectedly.
The Los Angeles native also partnered with Visiting Nurse Health System and supported their Camp STARS (Sharing Together As Real Support), a bereavement retreat held annually in Georgia.
The Hawks will recognize Okongwu during the Heat-Hawks game on Dec. 28 with general manager Landry Fields presenting him with the award.
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