The Utah Jazz announced on Saturday that All-Star center Rudy Gobert is donating more than $500,000 to support both the employee relief fund at Vivint Smart Home Arena and COVID-related social services relief in Utah, Oklahoma City and within the French health care system.
Gobert was the first NBA player to test positive for the coronavirus. His teammate, Jazz All-Star shooting guard Donovan Mitchell, tested positive for the virus as well:
“I am humbled by the tireless efforts and care of people around the globe for those affected by COVID-19, especially my own communities of Utah and France, in addition to my appreciation for the state of Oklahoma and my care there, and of course, my Utah Jazz family,” Rudy Gobert said.
“I know there are countless ways that people have been impacted. These donations are a small token that reflect my appreciation and support for all those impacted and are the first of many steps I will take to try and make a positive difference, while continuing to learn more about COVID-19 and educate others. Much gratitude, RG.”
Per the Jazz, more than 800 part-time employees work events at Vivint Smart Home Arena in various areas such as food service, security and guest services.
Four upcoming concerts have been postponed through the end of April and the Jazz had 10 remaining home games on its schedule before the suspension of the season due to the coronavirus.
Mitchell and Gobert are the only players on the Jazz which have the coronavirus.
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