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Derrick Rose, Other NBA Players to Donate $1,000 Per Point for Japan Relief

Mar 25, 2011 – 4:00 PM
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Derrick Rose, contender for the league's MVP award as high-scorer for the Chicago Bulls, is leading the NBA's efforts to help Japan. For every point Rose scores in tonight's game against the Memphis Grizzlies, the superstar point guard will donate $1,000 to Direct Relief International.

Direct Relief International is a U.S.-based nonprofit that supplies medical assistance to troubled spots across the globe. In all, 20 NBA players have committed to supporting the Direct Relief's effort to help the people of Japan recover from the devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 11.

Derrick Rose
Scott Cunningham, NBA / Getty Images
Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls could end up donating more than $25,000 to earthquake and tsunami relief in Japan if he reaches his average score in Friday's game.
At an average of 24.9 points a game, Rose's donation could easily top $25,000.

Others big scorers -- and big spenders -- who have also pledged a grand per point are the Los Angeles Lakers' Pau Gasol, LaMarcus Aldridge of the Portland Trail Blazers and the Washington Wizards' JaVale McGee, who will donate according to games they play through Sunday. Other NBA players have committed to donate a set amount.

The donations will go to Direct Relief's Japan Relief and Recovery Fund. Formed with the Japanese American Citizens League, the fund supports the immediate health needs of people by working with local authorities best situated to assess, respond and prepare for the long-term recovery.

"We are incredibly proud that our athletes have rallied together to assist with Direct Relief's efforts in Japan," said Arn Tellem, principal of sports management agency Wasserman Media Group.

"Due to the gravity of the situation, we hope that citizens around the world consider following the example of our athletes by making a donation of any amount to an organization of their choice assisting in the Japanese relief efforts."

Fans interested in joining their favorite players can donate directly to the Japan Relief and Recovery Fund.

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