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Cavs’ LeBron James wins NBA citizenship Award

By Jake Goldstein-Street

May 7, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) controls a ball during the second quarter in the second round of game four of the 2017 NBA Playoffs against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
May 7, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) controls a ball during the second quarter in the second round of game four of the 2017 NBA Playoffs against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /
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After being snubbed as an NBA MVP finalist, an NBA citizenship was awarded to LeBron James for his work in Akron, Ohio.

The Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award is given each year for ”outstanding service and dedication to the community.” LeBron James is being awarded for his work in providing scholarships to students in-need in his hometown, according to the Associated Press. The Professional Basketball Writers Association gives the award.

The award comes just days after an NBA MVP finalist snub shocked the NBA world. Russell Westbrook, Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden were announced as the top-three candidates, instead.

LeBron James averaged 26.4 points this season along with 8.6 rebounds and 8.7 assists, which are both career highs. James has played outstanding in the NBA Playoffs, thus far. Due to his great play, the Cavaliers have yet to lose a game in the postseason. They dominated the Boston Celtics in their first two meetings in the Eastern Conference Finals. The team looks set to appear in their third straight NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors.

The LeBron James Family Foundation partnered with the University of Akron in 2015 to try to give students an education they wouldn’t otherwise receive. The four-time MVP helped more than 1,100 students with his work. Additionally, he is starting a new “I PROMISE” public school to give students easy access to education.

James does a number of thoughtful things for the kids of Akron. He mentors them by writing letters and calling their homes. Occasionally, he gives students tickets to Cavaliers home games.

PBWA President Josh Robbins of the Orlando Sentinel explained the decision:

"“James’ efforts to help young people are exemplary. He is making a difference, and so are the other 25 people who were nominated for this award.”"

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The other four finalists for the award were the Knicks’ Carmelo Anthony, Bulls’ Jimmy Butler, Trail Blazers’ CJ McCollum and Grizzlies’ Zach Randolph.

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