NEW YORK, Nov. 9, 2007 – In recognition of Jamal Crawford’s outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic work, the NBA has honored the New York Knicks guard with the Community Assist Award for October.

During October, the 6-foot-5 Seattle native, unveiled the “Crawford Library,” a newly created full-service and state-of-the-art library at P.S. 58 in the Bronx, New York. Crawford’s partnership with the school began last fall through the nonprofit organization PENCIL. The organization works to improve student achievement in New York City public schools by creating and supporting customized partnerships leveraging the expertise, talents, commitment and resources of school and business leaders. The organization also runs an annual Principal for a Day program which the eighth-year guard participated in.

The entire project was underwritten by the Jamal Crawford Foundation, and includes new furniture, equipment, bookshelves, tables and chairs, carpeting, paint, a computer station, and a collection of new reading resources.

“I made a promise to Principal Velma Gunn last fall when I partnered with the school through PENCIL,” said Crawford. “The condition of the school’s library was unacceptable, and we agreed that the students deserved far better in order to get motivated about reading and learning. I’m confident they will take full advantage of what this newly renovated library has to offer.”

In addition to the NBA’s Community Assist Award, Crawford recently received the ‘Shining Stars’ award during the annual Starlight Starbright’s Celebrity Sports Auction, held in New York City for his work in the community. Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation helps seriously ill children and their families cope with their pain, fear and isolation through entertainment, education and family activities.

During the 2007-08 season, the Knicks star will host “Crawford’s Crew,” a section of 20 seats per game inside Madison Square Garden that are donated to community groups which serve youth in the NY-metro area. With an assist from Crawford, over 800 children will be able to experience a Knicks game in person this season at The World’s Most Famous Arena. Crawford also participated in a commercial shoot for this season’s Knicks and Garden of Dreams School Supply Drive. The Knicks will host school supply drives during three home games in December and fans that bring supplies will have a chance to meet a former Knicks player and receive a special commemorative item from the Knicks and Garden of Dreams.

In addition to his work during October, Crawford continuously devotes his time and resources to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Garden of Dreams Foundation, which is committed to "making dreams come true for kids in crisis,” and his own foundation, which helps expose inner-city children to numerous activities outside of their usual experiences.

As the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award, Crawford will receive the David Robinson Plaque with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition to the plaque, a $5,000 donation will be given to the charity of Crawford’s choice. The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.