Pelicans star Zion Williamson has donated $100,000 to help victims of the deadly New Orleans terror attack.
Fourteen people were killed and dozens were injured after Shamsud-Din Jabbar rammed his truck into a crowd of revelers in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
On Friday night, the Pelicans played their first home game since the tragedy and ahead of the game, Williamson opened up on how the attack had impacted him – and why he decided to donate.
‘As a father, son, and someone who loves this community, this hit me hard. This isn’t just about money – but standing together and making sure no one feels alone,’ he told ESPN.
His $100,000 donation will go towards the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Tragedy fund.
Earlier this week, New Orleans Saints star Cam Jordan donated $25,000 to the relief effort. And on Friday he came together with Pelicans guard CJ McCollum to send an inspiring message to the city.
Zion Williamson has donated $100,000 to help victims of the deadly New Orleans terror attack
The city is reeling after a terrorist rammed a vehicle into a large crowd, killing 14 people
Shamsud Din Jabbar (pictured), 42, has been identified as the driver behind the attack
The tragic attack comes two decades after New Orleans was devastated by Hurricane Katrina, which flooded the city and killed 1,392 people.
McCollum, Jordan and Saints owner Gayle Benson narrated a video message in which they vowed that the city would not be defeated by this latest tragedy.
‘Dear New Orleans,’ they said. ‘We have previously experienced the unimaginable. We have all lived through and overcame unspeakable tragedy
‘But horror and heartbreak did not define us then. And it will not define us now. What does define us is the way we spring into action.
‘Literally, rolling up our sleeves to do whatever it takes to heal our community, that’s who we are. It’s who we have always been.
‘So while our hearts may be heavy, the defiant spirit of New Orleans will never be defeated. Our Superdome will always be a place where memories are made and where fans become family.
‘And we will get through this like we always do – together.’
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