Joakim Noah is a polarizing figure on the basketball, and it’s easy to see why.
He’s loud, he’s demonstrative and sometimes he just can’t help but troll.
But he’s a fan favorite in Chicago because of his passion and ability to maximize his abilities. Even while struggling last year, Noah was no fun to play against because he brought unbridled intensity and dedication to every possession.
Fortunately for the city of Chicago, that passion doesn’t end when the buzzer sounds. Noah’s foundation, Noah’s Arc, focuses on eliminating violence and making children aware of the positive impact they can have on their community.
Last month, Noah hosted the ONE CITY Basketball Tournament at the Advocate Center, pitting the South Side against the West Side. It was the second year Noah hosted the tournament, and his objective is to bring together children from different parts of the city through peaceful means.
As he is wont to do, Noah played the hype man for the event, which was once again a success. However you feel about Noah on the court, you have to respect everything he does off it.