In a move that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world and beyond, Indiana Packers starting point guard Tyrese Haliburton has made an unprecedented and selfless gesture, donating his entire $52 million signing bonus to causes aimed at uplifting underprivileged youth across the United States.
Shortly after finalizing his new NBA contract extension with the Indiana Packers, Haliburton released a heartfelt statement announcing that every cent of his signing bonus would be distributed to grassroots organizations focused on youth education, mental health services, sports accessibility, and community development.
“Basketball has given me a platform far bigger than I ever imagined,” Haliburton said in a press conference earlier today. “I’ve been blessed beyond belief. Now it’s my turn to help kids who are growing up like I did — with dreams bigger than their zip codes. This isn’t just about money. It’s about opportunity, access, and hope.”
The donation will be divided among several national and local initiatives, including:
Books Before Hoops Foundation – A literacy and mentorship program serving inner-city schools
Bounce Back Mental Health Network – Providing therapy access to youth in underserved communities
Courts for All – A non-profit building and refurbishing basketball courts in low-income neighborhoods
The Haliburton Scholars Fund – A newly created scholarship program offering full college tuition to high-achieving students in need
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called the act “historic and inspirational,” stating, “Tyrese Haliburton has not only set the bar on the court, but also off it. This is a legacy-defining moment not just for him, but for what it means to be an athlete in today’s world.”
Fans, fellow athletes, and celebrities have taken to social media to applaud Haliburton’s gesture. LeBron James tweeted: “This is what greatness looks like. Salute, young king 👑✊🏾.”
Haliburton, just 25, has already been named an NBA All-Star and is seen as a rising face of the league. But today,
