According to a news release, the annual award recognizes a current NBA player for pursuing social justice and advancing Abdul-Jabbar’s mission to assist individuals and groups who have been historically marginalized or systemically disadvantaged.
Phoenix’s Chris Paul, Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr., San Antonio’s Tre Jones and Boston’s Grant Williams are also named finalists. The winner will be announced during the conference finals and receive a $100,000 donation from the NBA to a social justice organization of his choosing. The other four finalists will receive a $25,000 contribution.
Dallas’ Reggie Bullock was named Social Justice Champion last season. Carmelo Anthony won the inaugural award in 2021.
Curry continues to act as co-chair of former First Lady Michelle Obama’s When We All Vote initiative, and has used his influence to attract millions of new voters, according to the release.
During the Warriors’ trip to the White House in January to celebrate last season’s championship, Curry met with President Joe Biden to discuss policy matters, and participated in a White House press briefing with head coach Steve Kerr to bring attention to address community safety concerns.
Curry also donated $6 million to the Howard University men’s and women’s golf teams and hosted students from Black Culture Zone, a nonprofit organization focused on community projects in East Oakland.
Steph and Scoot: Curry and point guard Scoot Henderson, one of the top prospects in this year’s draft, have agreed to a partnership focused on mentorship. In what they call a “strategic alliance,” Curry will provide support for Henderson in basketball, media and social impact.
Henderson, 19, has aligned himself with Curry’s Unanimous Media, Eat. Learn. Play., Curry Brand and UNDERRATED Golf and Basketball.
Henderson, a Marietta, Ga., native, averaged 18.3 points, 6.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game this season for G League Ignite.
“I have been watching Scoot and his family for a while now, and I am beyond impressed with what he has accomplished thus far, and excited to watch him take control of his future and grow,” Curry said in a release. “Our values are deeply aligned when it comes to prioritizing family, hard work and appreciating the blessings in our lives. I firmly believe that what he and the Henderson Family are building is transformative and will change the narrative for how athletes and their families leverage their influence.”
