
Kevin Durant has played in Oklahoma City for five years. (Layne Murdoch/Getty Images)
Thunder All-Star forward Kevin Durant donated $1 million Tuesday to the American Red Cross through his family foundation to assist with disaster relief efforts in the wake of a tornado that swept through Oklahoma on Monday, killing at least 24 people and injuring hundreds of others.
“The Red Cross relies on its donors to perform its mission in relieving human suffering following disasters,” Janienne Bella, Red Cross’s regional CEO said in a statement. “Mr. Durant’s gift and support to Oklahoma comes at a time of great need and we’re forever thankful for his generosity.”
Later Tuesday, the Thunder organization also pledged a $1 million donation.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by the devastation that has occurred within our community this week,” Thunder chairman Clay Bennett said in a statement. “We are focusing Thunder resources to help where we can in the relief efforts and to support the organizations that are on the ground assisting those affected by this week’s storms. Even with so much loss, the strength and resiliency of this community have once again been on display, and we will continue to work together as our community and state recover from this disaster.”
The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association also pledged $1 million on Tuesday.
Durant tweeted a message of support to storm victims on Monday.
“Praying for the victims of the Tornadoes in OKC these last few days,” he wrote. “Everybody stay safe!”
Thunder center Kendrick Perkins sent Durant a message of thanks for the donation on Tuesday.
“Love it bro,” he wrote. “That’s how you keep it real. That’s a good thing bro. One million dollars is a blessing for the community.”
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