NBA Star Devin Booker Pledges $2.5 million to Phoenix Charities
January 18, 2019
NBA Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker announced last Friday that he will donate $2.5 million to Suns Charities over the course of the next five years.
"A lot of people look at basketball as just a bunch of guys that make a lot of money out there on the court. It's not that. It's a lot bigger than that for us,” Booker said. “So, I've been inspired by our owner Robert (Sarver), and I've seen how serious the Phoenix Suns organization takes their relationship with our community partners."
Booker said he will donate $500,000 per year for each of the next five years to various charities. Each year, he will connect with Suns Charities Board of Directors to pick what he calls the 'Starting Five' in order to determine how to allocate those funds.
"We're going to find five deserving non-profit organizations, give them $100,000 each to help them continue doing what they're doing in Arizona to help the kids and the families that are in need," Booker said.
In his fourth NBA season, Booker is the Suns' leading scorer this season, averaging 24.8 points per game and a career-high 6.9 assists. In July, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract extension with the Suns, the most lucrative in the history of the franchise.
About Suns Charities
Since 1968, the Phoenix Suns have been committed to the Valley and have strived to deepen their connection to the Phoenix community that they proudly represent. From local non-profits to Phoenix schools to surrounding businesses, the Suns have assisted in helping shape Phoenix through their constant support and impact throughout the community.
Through Suns Charities, established as the very first NBA team foundation, the organization continues to give back in support of its mission to support child and family services throughout the state of Arizona.
Just last season, Suns Managing Partner Robert Saver and Phoenix Suns Charities awarded a $1 million grant to refurbish, restore and build 50 basketball courts throughout Arizona. The initiative helped revitalize areas of the community in need, and created safer and more enjoyable experiences for children throughout the Valley.