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NBA social justice award is named after Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 2019
A new NBA award, named after Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, will honor players committed to community action, social change and justice.
(Richard Shotwell / Invision/Associated Press)
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Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will have his name attached to a new annual NBA award honoring players committed to community action, social change and justice.

Each team will nominate one player from its roster for the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion award, the winner being chosen by a committee of NBA legends, league executives and leaders in the social justice movement.

The winner will receive $100,000 to contribute to an organization of his choice. The other four finalists will win $25,000 to contribute to an organization.

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“I’m honored and grateful to be associated with this award that will recognize the dedicated and selfless people fighting to promote social justice for all marginalized people,” Abdul-Jabbar said in a statement. “To me, it’s another giant step in the right direction for the country and all people who value equality.”

In addition to a legendary career that includes being the NBA’s all-time scoring leader, Abdul-Jabbar has added to his legacy with his lifetime involvement in activism. Abdul-Jabbar has written about social reform for a number of publications, including the Los Angeles Times.

“In addition to being one of our greatest players, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has devoted much of his life to advocating for equality and social justice,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “With this new award, we are proud to recognize and celebrate NBA players who are using their influence to make an impact on their communities and our broader society.”

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