To recognize his continued work with the Memphis community and its youth, the NBA has decided to honor Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley with the January NBA Cares Community Assist Award.

Via NBA.com:

Kaiser Permanente and the NBA are honoring Conley for the support and opportunities he provides youth throughout Memphis. In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and National Mentoring Month, Conley participated in a candid discussion and tour at the National Civil Rights Museum with five young men from Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School. Leading them in conversation about the work and legacy of Dr. King, the group shared ideas on ways to bridge community divides and actively address social issues. An active board member of the Grizzlies Foundation, Conley regularly provides guidance to empower young men of color at Grizzlies Prep and has donated more than $200,000 to the organization.

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Conley, now 31 years of age, knows he has a big platform, and he chooses to use it for those who do not. No matter their status in life, he feels that everyone deserves an equal opportunity.

“For professional athletes, I think we have a responsibility to utilize our platforms to stand for something bigger than our individual selves and to be the voice and support for those who don’t have one,” said Conley. “I feel young men and women of color need to be provided with equal opportunities no matter what their socioeconomic status may be. Through Grizzlies Prep, I am helping to close the opportunity gap for young men of color in the city of Memphis.”

Conley and the Grizzlies will be back in action on Wednesday night, as they're scheduled to serve as hosts to the Chicago Bulls. Tip-off inside FedEx Forum is set for 8:00 p.m. ET.