Cole Anthony named as NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner for October

For the members of the UNC basketball program, being a high-character person is just as important as being a successful athlete.

Former Tar Heel Cole Anthony exemplifies what it means to be both a considerate person and an accomplished athlete. Anthony, a point guard on the Orlando Magic, was named October's NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner.

The award is named after former NBA player Bob Lanier, who passed in 2022. Lanier’s memory and his mission for inspiring the community and youth, live on in this award.

As stated on the NBA Cares page, this prestigious award is revered by the entire league.

“The award recognizes one player each month during the regular season who best demonstrates the passion that the league and NBA players share for giving back to their communities.”

The NBA Cares article on Anthony’s continued service highlights the immense impact he’s had on thousands of lives in his community. He is a true champion for giving back to others and providing opportunities for the youth.

“Anthony is being recognized for his work supporting youth health and wellness through hosting a financial literacy workshop, fundraising events and youth basketball clinics. Anthony will receive the David Robinson trophy, and the NBA will donate $10,000 to his 50 Ways Foundation.”

Anthony’s 50 Ways Foundation aims “to inspire and empower our youth by providing mentorship, new experiences, and resources that can create different opportunities for them to be successful.”

Anthony truly embodies everything Lanier and his award stand for. With athletes like Anthony, the world is a brighter place, and the young basketball community is in good hands. Tar Heel nation should be proud to call Anthony one of our own, as he epitomizes what it means to be part of the Carolina family.