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, is planning to give away free backpacks 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.
This will be the 15th year of the event and according to a representative, Lillard and his family and friends will be in attendance.
The backpacks will be filled with school supplies, and shoes for some 300-400 kids in the local community. Lillard is also funding renovations to the center, including major upgrades to its basketball courts. Last Christmas, he gave out gifts to more than 400 families.
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).