CHARACTER COUNTS

Suns vice chairman pledges $10 million to league foundation

Apr 4, 2021, 7:16 AM

Black Lives Matter is seen on the court prior to the start of the game between Indiana Pacers and P...

Black Lives Matter is seen on the court prior to the start of the game between Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns at Visa Athletic Center at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 06, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The Phoenix Suns continue to give back to the community.

Suns vice chairman Jahm Najafi has pledged a $10 million commitment to the NBA Foundation over the next 10 years, foundation executive director Greg Taylor announced on Wednesday.

“This past year I have been inspired by the NBA family’s efforts to advance social justice, especially through the NB Board of Governor’s long-term commitment in creating the NBA Foundation,” Najafi said in a release.

Najafi’s $1 million contribution per year will further the foundation’s mission to increase economic empowerment for Black communities through employment and career advancement.

“I’ve seen firsthand how economic opportunity can change lives, and I look forward to supporting the Foundation over the next 10 years as they impact the lives of Black youth,” Najafi added.

The Suns vice chairman’s donation will be added to the $10 million the Suns have already pledged to the league’s foundation as part of the $300 million commitment made by all 30 NBA teams.

“The NBA Foundation is grateful for Mr. Najafi’s generous commitment,” Taylor said. “As a proven leader in sports and business and advocate for social justice, we look forward to working together toward our shared goal of creating greater opportunity and outcomes for Black young people.”

Najafi recently teamed up with Colin Kaepernick to create the Mission Advancement Corp., a company committed to creating meaningful financial, social and cultural values.

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Suns vice chairman pledges $10 million to league foundation