Conrad Brunner
October 1, 2001
INDIANAPOLIS, October 1, 2001 - Reggie Miller, the Indiana Pacers' five-time All-Star guard, announced Monday that for every 3-point field goal he makes during the NBA's preseason and regular season, he will donate $1,000 to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, benefiting the families of the victims and heroes from the tragic events of Sept. 11 in New York City and Washington, D.C.
Based on his average output, that would generate a donation in excess of $145,000 from Miller.
''At a time like this, everyone wants to do something and it gives me a chance to give back to my country, '' said Miller, the NBA's all-time leader in 3-pointers with 2,037.
Over the course of his 14-year career, Miller has averaged 145 3-pointers per season with a high of 229 in the 1996-97 season. Last year, Miller hit 170, the third-highest total of his career. ''I'm hoping I can break my single-season record,'' said Miller.
At the conclusion of the 2001-02 NBA season, Miller will make the total donation to the Disaster Relief Fund.
In conjunction with Miller's announcement, the Pacers announced a matching $1,000 donation to the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis for every 3-point field goal Miller makes in the preseason and regular season.
''Reggie's contribution is indicative of what he has done for the Pacers, the City of Indianapolis and the State of Indiana throughout his career,'' said Pacers President Donnie Walsh. ''Reggie has had some great, memorable games in New York and it's appropriate he is making this, great, memorable gesture. We wanted to match his gift to show our appreciation for everything Reggie has done and, obviously, to benefit the local Red Cross during this time of national need.''