Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo has been named the 2025-26 NBA Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion, the league announced on May 23. The award, which honors players who pursue social justice and community engagement, is named after Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
The recognition includes a $100,000 donation from the NBA to Adebayo’s chosen charity, the Bam, Books & Brotherhood Foundation. The award allows winners to direct charitable donations to organizations of their choice.
“Bam Adebayo has followed in the path of Kareem and other humanitarian leaders from throughout the league’s history by using his platform to create sustained impact for young people and families across South Florida and North Carolina,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum in a statement. “From investing in educational access and youth mentorship to addressing food insecurity and creating spaces where young people can thrive, Bam has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing opportunity and equity for others. We are proud to recognize him as the 2025-26 NBA Social Justice Champion.”
Adebayo’s efforts include providing mattresses, uniforms, and school supplies for students at the SEED School of Miami; funding transportation for more than 19,000 students to attend the Miami Book Fair; and hosting mentorship opportunities that help students explore career pathways. He was selected from finalists Harrison Barnes (San Antonio Spurs), Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics), Tobias Harris (Detroit Pistons), and Larry Nance Jr. (Cleveland Cavaliers).
The award was inaugurated in the 2020-21 season with Carmelo Anthony as its first recipient. Subsequent winners include Reggie Bullock (Dallas Mavericks), Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors), Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves), and Jrue Holiday (Boston Celtics), with Adebayo now joining this list.
Many NBA players participate in similar charitable activities regardless of awards or recognition.