Retired NBA superstar Michael Jordan and NBA commissioner Adam Silver were among eight people named Friday to the board of directors for the NBA Foundation to oversee social activism projects.
The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association said the group will direct activities and work with league clubs to support initiatives in league cities.
The board includes Silver, Charlotte Hornets owner Jordan, players Harrison Barnes of the Sacramento Kings and Tobias Harris of the Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans owner Gayle Benson, Atlanta Hawks owner Tony Ressler, NBPA executive director Michele Roberts and Toronto Raptors owner Larry Tanenbaum.
The foundation initially will be funded by $30 million annually over the next 10 years by NBA team owners.
Its goals are to drive economic empowerment for Black communities through employment and career advancement, boosting educational access and support for high school, college-aged and career-ready men and women, and assist national and local organisations with skills training, mentorship, coaching and pipeline development in NBA markets.
The foundation is part of the NBA’s efforts to address racial inequality and promote social justice. The league and union are committed to greater Black inclusion throughout the league, with more Black-owned and operated businesses being used by the league and its clubs.
