Last week, Lakers center Deandre Ayton brought joy to local youth by hosting a basketball clinic at the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) facility in New York City. The event, organized in collaboration with Ayton’s Ayton Family Foundation, welcomed around 50 children from various backgrounds, including those supported by the Jamaican and Bahamian Consulates.
As Ayton arrived at the gym, the children’s excitement was palpable. They eagerly lined up, extending their arms in anticipation. With a smile, Ayton made his way down the line, greeting each child with a handshake or eye contact. “It fills me, for real, just seeing their smiles,” Ayton remarked. He took the opportunity to engage with the children on the court, noting their skills and knowledge of the game.
During the clinic, Ayton demonstrated his commitment to youth development and community service. He shared insights about basketball, reminiscing about his own experiences with professional players who inspired him during his upbringing in the Bahamas. “They are on you like white on rice, watching your every move,” he said, reflecting on the energy and enthusiasm of the young participants.
The clinic allowed many of these children to witness Ayton’s talent firsthand, as they had attended a game where he played against the Brooklyn Nets on February 3, 2025. In that match, Ayton showcased his skills with seven points, eight rebounds, and three assists. His performance throughout the season has been impressive, as he maintains a shooting percentage of 67.5%, the second-best in the NBA, while averaging 13.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.
Ayton expressed the importance of giving back, stating, “Just having guys in my position visiting these camps… you could feel the power and the energy of how excited they are.” He emphasized the impact of his presence, recalling how he, too, was inspired by professional athletes during his childhood.
While the Lakers were in New York for a series of games, Ayton chose to dedicate part of his downtime to the camp. “I found that it was the right time to be in New York City,” he explained, appreciating the cultural significance of the event. Chris Jean, the NBPA associate vice president for Elite Youth & Basketball Activation, praised Ayton’s commitment to community service, highlighting his contributions to Jamaica and the Bahamas.
Ayton’s philanthropic efforts have not gone unnoticed. He received the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for November 2025, recognizing his work in providing hurricane relief in Jamaica and supporting youth initiatives in Los Angeles. He credits his mother, Andrea Ayton, for instilling a sense of community service in him. “Mom started all that, that giving stuff, that just feeding the village,” he said, acknowledging her influence on his charitable endeavors.
The event was made even more special when dignitaries from the Jamaican and Bahamian Consulates presented Ayton with a proclamation in recognition of his kindness and generosity. “I feel so special,” Ayton admitted, finding the moment overwhelming as he received thanks from attendees and officials alike.
As the clinic concluded, Ayton’s enthusiasm for nurturing the next generation of basketball players was clear. His dedication to both the sport and community reflects a commitment that extends beyond the court, inspiring youth to pursue their dreams while emphasizing the importance of giving back.
