In a move that has shocked fans, teammates, and the entire NBA community, Oklahoma City Thunder center Serge Ibaka has made an incredible gesture of compassion and generosity that transcends the sport of basketball.
Upon signing a $25 million contract extension, Ibaka announced that he will be donating the entirety of his $25 million signing bonus to launch a global initiative focused on providing clean drinking water, healthcare access, and education to underserved communities in Central Africa, including his home country, the Republic of Congo.
“Basketball has given me a platform, but my purpose goes far beyond the court,” Ibaka said in an emotional press conference earlier today. “There are millions of children growing up in the same situation I did — without clean water, without basic healthcare, without hope. This is for them.”
The initiative, called “Project Elevate”, will begin construction of solar-powered water purification centers in rural areas starting early next year. In addition, Ibaka’s foundation is partnering with several NGOs to build mobile clinics and fund scholarship programs for young girls in the region.
A Legacy Bigger Than Basketball
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called the move “one of the most selfless acts we’ve ever seen in professional sports.”
“Serge is not just a great player — he’s a world-changer,” Silver stated. “This reminds us what the spirit of the NBA is really about.”
Ibaka, long known for his humanitarian work and humble background, grew up in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, where he often went days without running water or electricity. Since entering the league, he has consistently used his platform to give back — but this donation marks the largest single philanthropic act by an active NBA player to date.
Teammates Inspired
Thunder teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reacted on social media, writing:
“Incredible. We all talk about making a difference, but Serge does it. Honored to share a locker room with a real-life hero.”
Fans across the world have flooded social media with praise and admiration. The hashtag #ThankYouSerge was trending within hours of the announcement.
As for Ibaka, he says he’s just getting started
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