Lakers News and Rumors: Pau Gasol Pledges $1000 To Typhoon Haiyan Victims For Every Point He Scores Friday
Los Angeles Lakers superstar Pau Gasol will arguably be the most interesting player to watch on Friday as he pledged to donate $1,000 to the Typhoon Haiyan relief effort for every point that he scores against the Golden State Warriors.
In a post on his Twitter account, Gasol announced his decision to help the children of the Philippine provinces that were badly devastated by Typhoon Haiyan, which is said to be the strongest typhoon in years.
"Kids in the #Philippines need help. I'm pledging $1,000 per pt @ Friday's game. Will u pledge w me?" Gasol posted on his Twitter account.
Gasol's initiative also attracted his Twitter followers to make the same pledge. One of the notable personalities that also pledged to donate a specific amount based on Gasol's performance against the Warriors is former Lakers coach Phil Jackson, who promised to give $50 per point, $50 per rebound, and $1,000 for every charging foul drawn.
@paugasol i'm in for $50 per point, $50 per rebound, and $1000 for every charge taken, mi compadre
— Phil Jackson (@PhilJackson11) November 21, 2013
In a statement posted on CrowdRise, Gasol said that the Philippines need a lot of help after several provinces were completely devastated by the typhoon, which left thousands of people dead and a huge number of homeless families.
"Children are suffering in the Philippines. Typhoon Haiyan -- the year's most powerful tropical storm -- is the latest natural disaster to strike a country already reeling from monsoon flooding and a massive earthquake. These children desperately need shelter, clean water, medicine and nutrition," Gasol said. "Together we can help make a difference for the children of the Philippines! Your generosity will help UNICEF provide access to lifesaving care and support to millions of children in the Philippines."
The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) have already donated a total of $500,000 for the relief effort through UNICEF, while the Miami Heat, through the initiative of coach Erik Spoelstra, who traces his roots to the Philippines, will also donate at least $1 million, according to the Miami Herald.