Lakers Center Deandre Ayton Earns NBA’s November Community Assist Award
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Los Angeles, CA — Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton has received the NBA’s Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for the month of November, honoring his extensive charitable work in Southern California, the Bahamas and Jamaica.
Ayton, 27, said Monday he was “speechless” upon learning of the recognition. “It was an award I didn’t expect,” the 7-footer told reporters after practice. “I try to invest to give back and contribute the best way I can in things me and my family care about, and I can just say thank you. We’re honored.”
The veteran was signed to a two-year contract by Los Angeles after a summer buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers. On the floor he is averaging 15.3 points, 9.0 rebounds and shooting 71 percent, but league officials cited his off-court initiatives in selecting him for the November honor.
Key community efforts
• Hurricane relief: Ayton and the Ayton Family Foundation (AFF) donated $100,000 to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa and committed to supporting rebuilding projects through 2026.
• Youth access: The AFF’s “Ayton Alley-Oop” program provides live sports experiences for underrepresented and economically disadvantaged children across Southern California.
Ayton, who also supports projects in his native Bahamas, said winning the award will not change the foundation’s plans. “We’re not gonna stop doing what we do,” he said. “I truly appreciate the community, especially the Lakers, for making it worldwide.”
Head coach JJ Redick noted that the organization has enjoyed getting to know the center during his first season in Los Angeles. The Lakers, he added, value both on-court performance and meaningful community involvement.
Source: LakersNation.com
