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While the threat of COVID-19, or the coronavirus, that the world is currently facing right now is a scary one, it has brought out the best in people in many ways (and less so in others). Nets guard Kyrie Irving is decidedly a part of the former group.
It’s well known that Irving — who turned 28 today — was as big of a Kobe Bryant disciple as there is in the NBA. He collaborated with Bryant on one of his first signature shoes, and FaceTimed the Lakers legend nearly the second he won his first title with an instantly iconic shot. On his birthday, he decided to give $323,000 to Feeding America to “help marginalized communities” get food during the current coronavirus crisis, and if you’re wondering why he donated that specific amount, well, its a tribute to Bryant:
On IG, @KyrieIrving announces $323k donation to @FeedingAmerica.
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeck) March 23, 2020
Why $323k? Today (3/23) is Kyrie's birthday. Also, I'm told, because 3+2+3=8, in honor of @kobebryant. pic.twitter.com/klue3hpHoQ
This is a really cool gesture from Irving for all of those reasons, but most of all because he’s using his substantial platform to advocate for an important cause, and putting his money where his mouth is to help.
And one doesn’t have to be an NBA star or team to help others right now. Feeding America’s website has a button at the top that allows anyone to donate to the cause, and also a search tool where you can find a food bank close to you if you have a surplus of resources right now. Our sister site, Bright Side of the Sun, is also doing an excellent fundraiser for those hit hard financially during this pandemic.
And if you don’t have money to offer right now, we all can make a difference just by practicing social distancing in order to try and slow the spread of this thing so it doesn’t overwhelm our already taxed medical system. Irving set a great example here that Bryant — who was a big advocate for and donor to the homeless community — would surely be proud of. Let’s all do our part to make a difference too, no matter what shape that takes.
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