NEW YORK, July 22, 2008 – Cleveland Cavaliers forward and 2008 USA Basketball Senior National Team member LeBron James has been named the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award for June, in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work.

The Olympics-bound James is being honored in part for the success of his third annual “King for Kids Bike-A-Thon,” in Akron, Ohio. The event raised more than $150,000 for three local non-profit organizations-- the LeBron James Family Foundation, the Akron Area YMCA and the Akron Urban League. More than 2,000 participants turned out for the day-long event, which raised awareness and funding for important community initiatives while recognizing and rewarding local youth who have achieved academic success, improved their physical fitness and made important contributions within the community.

“Giving back to the community is very important to me, especially since I grew up in the same neighborhoods as the people I want to help,” explains James. “Along with my Foundation, I am committed to bringing families together and showing kids how important it is that they do well in school, stay active and make a real difference in the world around them.”

LeBron also participates in numerous ongoing community building efforts through the LeBron James Family Foundation, which he founded in 2004. Through innovative programs and initiatives, the Foundation empowers children and single-parent families, focusing on strengthening ties between family members and building hope for those facing adversity. Among the Foundation’s most influential national programs are Meal & a Movie and the Playground Build Initiative. Meal & a Movie provides disadvantaged families with the chance to enjoy a special meal together and view a not-yet-released, family-friendly movie and the Playground Build Initiative develops safe spaces where local children and their families can bond and play.

As June’s NBA Community Assist Award recipient, LeBron will receive the David Robinson Plaque, with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition, a $5,000 donation will be given to the LeBron James Family Foundation.

The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.