BREAKING NEWS: In a moment that has captured the hearts of fans and entire NBA organization around the world, Golden State warriors Safety Joseph James DeAngelo has made headlines for a reason far beyond NBA. Upon signing his latest contract with Indiana pacers, Joseph James DeAngelo has done something no one saw coming — he has chosen to donate his entire $30 million signing bonus To…see more
In a moment that has captured the hearts of fans and the entire NBA community around the globe, Golden State Warriors’ standout Joseph James DeAngelo has made headlines — but not for a game-winning shot, record-breaking stat, or a buzzer-beater. This time, it’s for something far bigger than basketball.
Upon signing his latest contract with the Indiana Pacers, DeAngelo — who had become a defensive powerhouse and fan favorite during his time with the Warriors — shocked the world by announcing he would be donating his entire $30 million signing bonus to a cause deeply personal to him.
The recipient? The National Center for Victims of Crime, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of violence and trauma, including survivors of abuse, assault, and stalking.
“More Than a Game”
At a press conference following the official signing, DeAngelo held back tears as he addressed the media.
“Basketball has given me a platform — but what I do with that platform has to mean something,” he said. “I’ve seen pain, I’ve seen injustice, and I’ve seen what silence can do. This isn’t just a donation. It’s a statement. A promise. We can do better, and we must do better.”
DeAngelo went on to share that he has been working privately with trauma survivors over the last two years, and that the decision to make this donation was not made lightly. Sources close to him say the player has long been passionate about victim advocacy and has spent time volunteering in shelters and crisis centers during offseasons.
NBA and Public Reaction
The NBA community has responded with overwhelming support. League commissioner Adam Silver released a statement shortly after the news broke:
“Joseph’s courage and compassion are a shining example of what it means to be a leader both on and off the court. His actions will have a ripple effect that extends far beyond the game.”
Teammates, coaches, celebrities, and fans have taken to social media to applaud DeAngelo’s unprecedented gesture. #DeAngelo30Million trended worldwide within an hour of the announcement.
A New Chapter
While basketball analysts have speculated heavily on what DeAngelo will bring to the Pacers in terms of defense and leadership, it’s clear that his legacy is being shaped by far more than athletic achievements.
The Indiana Pacers organization also released a statement commending DeAngelo’s actions:
“We are honored to welcome Joseph not just as a player, but as a humanitarian and changemaker. His generosity and integrity reflect the very values we strive to uphold as an organization.”
As DeAngelo prepares for the upcoming season in a new uniform, he does so with the eyes of the world not just on his performance, but on his purpose.