In an unprecedented move that is sending shockwaves throughout the sports world, Indiana Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton has made a stunning and selfless decision that transcends the game of basketball. Upon officially signing his new NBA contract extension, Haliburton has announced that he is donating his entire $75 million signing bonus to causes focused on underserved communities across the United States.
The 25-year-old NBA All-Star, already known for his high basketball IQ, leadership, and philanthropy, stunned fans, teammates, and league officials alike with the announcement at a press conference held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse earlier today.
“Basketball gave me everything — now it’s time I give back.”
“I’ve been incredibly blessed,” Haliburton said during his emotional address. “Basketball has given me opportunities I could have never dreamed of. But there are people in this country — kids especially — who don’t even have access to clean water, healthy food, education, or a safe place to live. That’s not okay. This isn’t about headlines or attention. This is about action.”
Where the Money Is Going
According to Haliburton’s team, the full $75 million will be distributed over the next five years through a newly formed foundation called “The Assist Project” — named in honor of his role as one of the league’s premier playmakers.
The funds will be allocated to:
- Educational equity initiatives in underserved school districts
- Youth mental health support and counseling services
- Affordable housing development in low-income neighborhoods
- Food security programs including mobile food pantries
- Community sports and recreation centers to keep kids off the streets
The foundation has already partnered with organizations like Feeding America, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and grassroots nonprofits in cities like Detroit, Oakland, Chicago, and Indianapolis.
Reactions from Around the League
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement calling Haliburton’s donation “one of the most remarkable acts of generosity in NBA history,” adding, “Tyrese reminds us all of the true power of sport — not just to entertain, but to uplift.”
Hall of Famers and current stars flooded social media with praise:
- LeBron James: “Mad respect to @TyHaliburton. This is leadership beyond the court. Salute, young king.”
- Stephen Curry: “A true assist leader in every sense. Huge move from a huge heart.”
- Victor Wembanyama: “Inspiring. This is what greatness really looks like.”
A New Legacy
While Haliburton’s on-court legacy is still unfolding — with averages of 21.4 points and 10.7 assists per game last season and a leading role on Team USA this summer — his off-court impact is already legendary.
Longtime Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle put it simply:
“Tyrese just changed lives today. Not just with his money, but with his heart.”
In a league increasingly defined by its stars’ influence beyond basketball, Tyrese Haliburton has just redefined what it means to give back. And in doing so, he may have just made the most meaningful assist of his career.
