NEW YORK CITY — In a jaw-dropping move that’s rocking the sports world and beyond, New York Knicks standout Josh Hart has just done what no one saw coming: donated his entire $20 million performance bonus and sponsorship earnings to charities focused on homelessness, youth empowerment, and mental health.
That’s right—$20 MILLION. All of it. Gone from his bank account. Poured directly into the lives of those in desperate need.
> “Money was never my motivation. If I can help someone sleep warm tonight or give a kid hope, that’s worth more than any contract,” Hart said in an emotional press conference this morning.
🌍 A Legacy Bigger Than Basketball
The 30-year-old forward, known for his tenacity on the court and humility off it, announced the donation shortly after receiving his performance bonus following the Knicks’ deep playoff run.
Hart’s donations will be split among:
New York Homeless Relief Coalition
Youth Rise Foundation
The Hart House Project – a new initiative he’s launching to build transitional housing for single mothers and veterans.
According to sources close to Hart, the sponsorship portion of the donation came from a recent shoe deal and several high-profile brand collaborations. Instead of pocketing the seven-figure deals, Hart redirected every dollar toward his causes.
📣 Fans, Celebrities, and Athletes React
Social media exploded within minutes of the news, with celebrities, fellow NBA stars, and even politicians praising the gesture.
> “This is what real influence looks like. Respect, Josh Hart.” – LeBron James via X (formerly Twitter)
“Knicks fans, you’ve got a real one.” – Stephen A. Smith on ESPN
“What he just did could change lives forever.” – NYC Mayor Eric Adams
💬 Why He Did It
In the press conference, Hart cited his upbringing and past brushes with hardship as major motivators.
> “I know what it’s like to wonder where your next meal is coming from. I know the pain of watching loved ones struggle. I play for the Knicks, but I live for people.”
This donation marks one of the largest personal charitable acts in NBA history by an active player—and it’s already inspiring a wave of “Hart Challenges” online, encouraging people to give what they can.
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👀 What’s Next for Josh Hart?
While Knicks fans celebrate both his heroics on and off the court, Hart made it clear that he’s not done giving.
> “This is just the beginning. You don’t have to wait until you’re a millionaire to make a difference.”
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Stay tuned for updates on the Hart House Project and how YOU can get involved.
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