Chicago Bulls' star Joakim Noah recently won 2014-15 J. Walter Kennedy Award. Adding another feather in his cap, the 30-year-old is honoured for his work towards society's youth and their development.
Tobias Harris of Orlando Magic, Greg Monroe of Detroit Pistons and Chris Paul of Los Angeles Clippers were also in the race for the prestigious award, which is given to a player, coach, or staff member of basketball league to highlight the outstanding service and dedication to the community.
The recipient of the award is decided by the Professional Basketball Writers Association, which includes 175 writers and editors who cover the NBA on newspapers, online outlets and magazines regularly, NBA reported.
Noah has been coveted with the honor due to his extraordinary initiative of supporting those impacted by violence and encouraging youngsters to express themselves through sports and art. The two-time All-Star's philanthropic foundation recently launched "Rock Your Drop: The Drop of Consciousness" campaign, in which youths are counseled and motivated to develop a stronger sense of self.
The foundation has also produced a tributary album featuring those who have lost their loved ones to violence along with his team mates Taj Gibson, Nazr Mohammad and Derrick Rose. The foundation had also hosted a basketball match last year for local youths.
Meanwhile, on the court this season, Noah was seen struggling and finished this season at 9.6 rebounds, an all time low since the 2009-10 season.
"I went through a lot this year," Noah stated, Chicago Tribune quoted him as saying. "It wasn't easy, but I'll come back stronger."
Noah, who has undergone a surgical process to treat his left knee, has famously forecasted on the first day of Bulls training camp that he will have a tough time this season. However, the 6 feet 11 inches tall player admitted that he has lots of work to do and will come out as a stronger and better player.