Timberwolves Kevin Garnett Honored with NBA Community Assist Award for November

December 5, 2005
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Garnett has received the NBA Community Assist Award for the month of November, it was announced today by the league. Garnett, who will receive the David Robinson Plaque, earned the honor in recognition of his community outreach efforts and on-going generosity.

“It's an honor and privilege to be given this award by the NBA,” said Garnett. “It was special to me to be able to give something back to the community. Hopefully, all of us will be inspired to give of the blessings we have received.”

Video Kevin Garnett talks about his charity contributions

Garnett who had previously participated in the NBA Players Hurricane game and visited with evacuees in Houston on Sept. 11, was further moved last month to do even more to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina and to actively participate in the gulf region’s rebuilding efforts. Garnett sent a message to talk show host Oprah Winfrey, and on her Nov. 10 show surprised her by announcing that he would contribute $1.2 million to her Angel Network. Garnett’s donation will build one new home each month for 24 months. Garnett's donation came in response to Winfrey's call to action when she said on her show, “I want everybody to give at the level that you can. Put your money where your heart is-and give.”

Also in November, Garnett joined his teammates and the Timberwolves organization by hosting more than 300 military family members for the “Wolves Give Thanks” event at Target Center.

In addition to his activities during the month of November, Garnett recently opened a Technology Center at Washburn High School in Minneapolis through his 4XL Foundation, whose mission is to connect minority high school and college students with business leaders and internet-based guidance, while preparing them for business-related careers and entrepreneurship.

As the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award, Garnett 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 to the plaque, a $5,000 gift will be given to Garnett’s charity of choice.

The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who reflects the passion the league and its players have for their communities. Other nominees for November included Golden State’s Baron Davis, Detroit’s Dale Davis, Phoenix’s Brian Grant, Boston’s Paul Pierce and Milwaukee’s Bobby Simmons.