Richard Jefferson Pledges $2.5 Million Gift to Cavaliers, Affirms Lifelong Loyalty to Team and Fans
CLEVELAND, OH – May 17, 2025 — Former Cleveland Cavalier Richard Jefferson has reaffirmed his deep ties to the franchise and its supporters with a headline-making $2.5 million donation to the Cavaliers’ community and youth development initiatives. The gift, announced Friday at an event at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, underscores Jefferson’s enduring commitment to the team that launched his 17‑year NBA career and to the city where he remains a beloved figure.
“I wear Cavalier blue in my heart forever,” Jefferson told a crowd of current players, front‑office staff, and longtime fans. “Cleveland believed in me as a young player, and now I want to invest in our next generation—both on and off the court.”
Strengthening Community and Youth Programs
The multi‑million‑dollar contribution will be directed toward the Cavaliers’ Cavaliers Cares Foundation, specifically funding:
- Youth Basketball Academies: Expanding free clinics in underserved neighborhoods to teach fundamental skills, teamwork, and leadership.
- Academic Support Grants: Scholarships for student‑athletes in the Greater Cleveland area, covering tutoring, college prep, and STEM workshops.
- Facility Upgrades: Modernizing community centers and local gymnasiums to provide safe, year‑round training spaces.
“We’re honored by Richard’s generosity,” said Cavs CEO Nic Barlage. “His investment will have tangible impacts on thousands of kids—many of whom may follow in his footsteps.”
From Rookie to Role Model
Drafted 13th overall in 2001, Jefferson spent his first two NBA seasons in Cleveland before a journeyman career that included a pivotal role on the 2016 championship‑winning Golden State Warriors. Throughout his travels, he never forgot Cleveland, frequently returning in the off‑season to mentor local prospects and coach camps.
“Richard’s always been about more than points and rebounds,” said longtime Cavs broadcaster Fred McLeod. “He’s a pillar in this community.”
A Continuing Legacy
Jefferson’s gift arrives at a critical moment: the Cavaliers are embarking on a renewed push to build a contender around their young core. By investing in grassroots development, Jefferson aims to create a pipeline of talent—and to reinforce the bond between the team and its fanbase.
“Basketball brought me to Cleveland, but the people kept me here,” Jefferson reflected. “This is for every kid who dreams of hearing ‘Welcome to Cleveland’ on draft night.”
The Cavaliers plan to unveil the first renovated youth facility—renamed the “Jefferson Family Arena”—this summer, with ribbon‑cutting ceremonies scheduled for July 10. Fans and community members are invited to attend and celebrate the continuation of Jefferson’s far‑reaching impact on Cleveland basketball.