One of the coolest incentives for winning the NBA All-Star Game is that the two squads will get paychecks that go to local charities. The winning squad gets a check for $350,000, while the losing squad will get one for $150,000. It’s a heartwarming way to add some stakes to a game that is often considered to be a boring exhibition.
On Wednesday morning, the two captains announced the charities which will receive donations when the game comes to an end. Both LeBron James and Steph Curry recorded videos in which they announced the Los Angeles-based organizations their teams will support.
First up, Team LeBron will give its charitable donation to After-School All Stars, which helps more than 8,000 children in 52 low-income schools in Los Angeles by offering “access to free programs that offer academic support, enrichment opportunities, and health and fitness activities,” per a release.
“I love everything that you guys do, I love everything that you guys are about, and this is a great way for you guys to benefit, but I’m happy that I’m able to be a part of it,” James said. “Much respect.”
Team Stephen’s charity, Brotherhood Crusade, also looks to support children in Los Angeles, as it directly helps 3,000 underserved youth annually while helping 20,000 more via “special projects.”
“For nearly 50 years, the Brotherhood Crusade has been working to empower and support low-income and underserved youth in South Los Angeles,” Curry said. “Through mentoring, education, and leadership programs, the Brotherhood Crusade has helped young people overcome barriers on their pathway to success.”
Both of these charities do really important work in their communities, and it’s awesome that James and Curry are using their platforms as captains of the All-Star teams to offer up support for them.
