Oakland High legend and Portland Trail Blazers phenom Damian Lillard is giving back to the community where he forged his epic basketball career.
The nine-time NBA All-Star, born and raised in Oakland, announced on social media that he is sponsoring a backpack giveaway at the Ira Jinkins Recreation Center in East Oakland — not far from where he grew up and a place he frequented every day as a youth. The backpacks will be filled with school supplies for kids in the local community. Lillard is also funding renovations to the center, including major upgrades to its basketball courts.
The event will feature games, music, and food. Backpacks will be available while supplies last. Here are the details:
When: Saturday, Sept. 5, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Ira Jinkins Recreation Center, 9175 Edes Ave., Oakland
Lillard is not the only NBA great to come out of Oakland. Other notable legends include Bill Russell (McClymonds High) and Gary Payton (Skyline High School).