The NBA Foundation has extended its partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF), where they will put US$3.6 million towards the NBA HBCU Fellowship Program.

With the addition of the NBA HBCU Fellowship Program, the CDF will be able to provide even more opportunities for black students to develop their skills and transition into the workforce with the support they need.

This move by the NBA Foundation, which is one of the largest grants to-date, demonstrates the organisation’s dedication to investing in the future of black youths and provides them with the tools they need to succeed.

Commenting on the partnership, NBA Foundation executive director, Greg Taylor, said: “We are excited about the expansion of our partnership with the Children’s Defense Fund to bolster the NBA HBCU Fellowship Program.”

CDF president and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, added: “CDF’s legacy of social justice and unique approach to professional development for young people of colour elevated them as the perfect collaborator and will help our program step into a new model centred on youth wellbeing,” he said.

“Through leadership development and collaboration, Children’s Defense Fund helps young people activate their power and agency.

“As an alumnus and cheerleader for HBCUs, I envy the hundreds of NBA HBCU Fellows who will benefit from this innovative effort the NBA Foundation, Fearless Dialogues, and our energized staff team are crafting together.

“We look forward to supporting them and following their lead,” he said.

The announcement comes after the NBA launched their new Augmented Reality game, NBA All-World.