NBA champion Isaiah Hartenstein is proving that true greatness not only happens on, but also off the court. The Oklahoma City Thunder center has been named the 2025 offseason recipient of the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award, a prestigious honor recognizing players who make a meaningful difference in their communities.
Hartenstein’s offseason was a masterclass in giving back. Fresh off winning an NBA championship in June, he turned his attention to Oklahoma City’s youth, partnering with local nonprofits, funding educational initiatives, and even building a basketball court to inspire the next generation.
Through the Hartenstein Foundation, Isaiah teamed up with Positive Tomorrows, an organization that supports families experiencing homelessness. In June, he donated $10,000 to the group, followed by an additional $12,000 in September to provide back-to-school essentials like backpacks, clothing, and supplies, for students in need.
He also organized shopping experiences for students, giving them the freedom to choose their own gear and feel confident heading into the school year.
One of the most impactful moments came when Hartenstein unveiled a brand-new outdoor basketball court at the Boys & Girls Club in northeast Oklahoma City. The court, funded and designed by his foundation, offers a safe space for kids to play, grow, and dream.
“That’s how my dream started. On an outdoor court,” Hartenstein said. “Seeing it now, it’s something really special. Just giving kids that safe space where they can go out and be themselves.”
In recognition of his efforts, the NBA and NBPA Foundation will donate $20,000 to the Hartenstein Foundation, amplifying his mission to uplift underserved communities.
The award, named after Hall of Famer Bob Lanier, celebrates players who embody the league’s values of service, leadership, and compassion. Hartenstein joins a distinguished list of past winners, including Jrue Holiday, Bradley Beal, and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Hartenstein credited Thunder GM Sam Presti and the organization for instilling a culture of community engagement.
“When I got here, Sam did a great job of showing us the Oklahoma Standard,” he said. “That’s always my first intent; to give back and help the next generation.”
During the summer, Hartenstein returned home to Germany to host the iHartFest in Ulm which included a 3v3 basketball tournament, slam dunk contest, music, food and a kid’s playground.
“Winning the award means a lot and being recognized for something like this is really special,” said Hartenstein. “At the end of the day, you don’t do it for awards, you really do it to give back to the community and change people’s lives.”
