PHOENIX, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 15: Chris Paul #3 of the Phoenix Suns reacts after making a three point basket during the second half against the Los Angeles Clippers at Footprint Center on February 15, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Because of the way he has shown support for women’s basketball, Chris Paul is set to be the first recipient of the Kobe & Gigi Bryant WNBA Advocacy Award.
Phoenix Suns star Chris Paul is a basketball legend for his accomplishments on the court, but now he’s being recognized for the way he supports the sport so others can have a shot to play.
Sunday afternoon, the WNBA announced it is set to present Chris Paul with the first ever Kobe & Gigi Bryant WNBA Advocacy Award.
According to a press release from the WNBA, Vanessa Bryant will help present the award to Paul during he 2022 NBA All-Star game in Cleveland. The presentation will take place during the game, according to the press release.
Chris Paul to receive first ever Kobe & Gigi Bryant WNBA Advocacy Award
The WNBA noted in its press release that Paul is receiving the award for his “significant contributions to the advancement of girls’ and women’s basketball, and advocacy for the WNBA.”
In the press release, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert noted Paul’s “appreciation of the WNBA” and the support he has shown.
“I have seen first-hand Chris’ appreciation of the WNBA and the game at every level for women and girls, especially in Phoenix and North Carolina, and his ardent support of our game strongly reflects the legacy of Kobe and Gigi” Engelbert said. “The league is proud to name Chris as the inaugural recipient of the Kobe & Gigi Bryant WNBA Advocacy Award, as he serves as a leader and role model for other professional athletes around growing the future of the game for young girls and all fans.”
The WNBA noted how Paul supports the WNBA by attending games, sharing the success of WNBA players, and showing support for players during the WNBA Draft and All-Star events. As the WNBA pointed out, Paul also supports girls’ basketball camps.