Deandre Ayton (Photo: Athlon Sports)
December 17, 2025
Deandre Ayton receives NBA Community Assist award for relief efforts
National Basketball Association (NBA) player Deandre Ayton was recently surprised by his team with the league’s Community Assist Award in recognition of his relief efforts in Jamaica following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.
Ayton made a US$100,000 donation to support hurricane relief efforts on the island after the storm hit on October 28, causing widespread damage across several parishes.
The basketball player has ties to Jamaica, as his mother is from St Elizabeth, one of the areas severely impacted by the hurricane.
Ayton was visibly moved when presented with the Community Assist Award, as teammates applauded and celebrated the recognition. He repeatedly expressed that he was at a loss for words.
