Hoop dream: Young NBA player donates $2 million to his Tampa alma mater

For NBA superstar LeBron James, a $2 million charitable donation would be nothing to get too worked up about, but for a 22-year-old hoopster in just his fourth pro season, it’s a significant chunk of change. So, it comes as a pleasant surprise that Kevin Knox II, a small forward for the Atlanta Hawks, has given that amount to his alma mater, Tampa Catholic High School, which will use the funds to build a new fieldhouse named after him. (The New York Knicks traded Knox to the Hawks Jan. 13.)

Knox, drafted in the first round by the Knicks and No. 9 overall in 2018, signed a four-year, $18.5 million contract. Expiring at the end of the 2022-23 season, Knox’s deal will pay him an average of more than $4.6 million per season.

When you factor in taxes and other expenses, $2 million is quite the outlay for a young player. But Knox, who attended Tampa Catholic from 2013 to 2017, says he wouldn’t be in the NBA without the support of the school and its faculty and staff.

“I was inspired to give back to Tampa Catholic, as they helped me become the person and player I am today,” Knox states in a news release. “Being a TC Crusader will always be a part of who I am on and off the court.” 

The Kevin Knox II Fieldhouse, the release states, will feature a gymnasium, fitness center, TC hall of fame pavilion and champions hall, coaching suites, video scoreboard, men’s and women’s locker rooms, bleachers and concessions. It’s under construction and set to open in the spring.

“We can’t imagine a finer example of an alumnus who exhibits faith, excellence and family,” Tampa Catholic Principal Robert Lees states in the release. “Kevin is a champion on and off the court, and we are so grateful for this gift that will enhance the experience for every Tampa Catholic student, current and future.”