We know Kawhi Leonard to be the Fun Guy of the NBA. As it turns out, though, the Los Angeles Clippers star has a softer side to him.
Leonard recently attended a dedication ceremony for a new basketball court in his hometown Moreno Valley. There, the Clippers forward said a few words of encouragement to the kids attending the program. (via Los Angeles Daily News)
“This community means more than just a basketball court. And I’m gonna keep working to … keep putting you on the map. It’s about the kids and the youth; that’s what I’m about. Just making the youth, better, stronger. Just (preparing) them for the outside world. Because once you make it past them mountains, it’s a different story.”
Kawhi clearly has a soft spot for his hometown. Despite winning the 2019 NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors, Leonard elected to leave Canada to join the Clippers. One of the primary reasons for that move was Leonard's desire to be closer to his family and hometown.
He's also done his part to help better the community. In April of this year, he and his family gave away sneakers to children of low-income families. And last year, he was part of a drive to help give school supplies to children in need in Los Angeles. These actions are greatly appreciated by the community, and shows Kawhi Leonard's commitment to the Clippers.
Everyone at tonight’s Clippers game will receive a backpack with this message from Kawhi Leonard asking to “pay it forward.” Kawhi will meet with his middle school – Palm Middle School – before the game and give teachers and students backpacks with Chromebooks and school supplies pic.twitter.com/PjPmkEkFc6
— Ohm Youngmisuk (@NotoriousOHM) February 28, 2020
Clippers fans are hoping that Kawhi will recover from his ACL injury earlier. The organization is certainly doing their best to get Leonard the best help possible. For now, though, they can relish in the fact that Kawhi doesn't look to be leaving LA anytime soon.
Follow Us
Subscribe