Canton native, NBA guard CJ McCollum recognized for youth justice reform
Canton native and New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum was chosen as the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner for the month of October.
The NBA recognized McCollum for his work in juvenile justice reform, youth engagement and education and literary, according to a news release. He teamed with the Louisiana Center for Children’s Right and the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition for a visit to the Juvenile Justice Intervention Center and Travis Hill School in New Orleans.
McCollum has used his status as a pro basketball player to address social issues he views as important.
“When I first got to New Orleans, I recognized the tremendous opportunity I would have to impact lives and meet the needs of the most vulnerable in our community,” McCollum said. “I am grateful to win this award and to continue this work with local and national partners to provide a fair and equitable experience for justice-involved youth in New Orleans."
McCollum is averaging 21.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 5.7 assists in six games this season.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Canton native, NBA guard CJ McCollum recognized for youth justice work
