by Cedric ‘BIG CED’ Thornton
This honor is awarded to a player, coach, or athletic trainer who has given outstanding service and dedication to the community.
McCollum, an 11-year veteran, was selected by the Professional Basketball Writers Association (PBWA). This honor is awarded to a player, coach, or athletic trainer who has given outstanding service and dedication to the community. The citizenship award is named after the NBA’s second commissioner, J. Walter Kennedy.
The Pelicans guard beat out four other finalists: Miami Heat assistant coach Caron Butler, Washington Wizards forward Anthony Gill, Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving, and Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr.
“C.J.’s passion, generosity, and commitment to improving the lives of the youth in his community is truly impressive,” said PBWA President Howard Beck, of The Ringer, in a written statement. “The members of the Professional Basketball Writers Association salute him and all the nominees for their inspiring work.”
McCollum is also president of the National Basketball Players Association.
He is being recognized for his community work in and around New Orleans, focusing on education, social justice reform, and efforts to provide equitable resources and opportunities for youth.
McCollum joins a list of players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Damian Lillard who have taken home the award in recent years.
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Source: Black Enterprise
