Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković believes in sharing the wealth, both on and off the court.
The second-year bench boss will continue his tradition of donating to children’s hospitals, this year giving $70,200 USD to SickKids in Toronto, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, and University Children’s Hospital in Belgrade, Serbia.
Rajaković and his wife, Gaga, first committed to give $20 for every assist the Raptors had in 2023-24 to children’s hospitals during his first year as head coach. They upped the commitment to $30 per assist this season — in recognition of the Raptors’ 30th anniversary — during the team’s annual visit to SickKids in January.
“Thank you once again to the hundreds of healthcare professionals in Toronto, Memphis, and back home in Belgrade for all that you do for children and families that need your support,” said Rajaković in a statement released by the team. “My family continues to be inspired by your dedication to improving children’s health and we continue to be your biggest fans. We look forward to making more visits very soon.”
Toronto set a single-season franchise record with 2,340 total assists in 2024-25.
The idea suits the egalitarian style of play Rajaković has implemented since taking over the reins. The Raptors have recorded their highest assist per game totals in franchise history in each of the last two seasons, finishing sixth and seventh in the league for the category, respectively.
Toronto has recorded 4,675 assists during Rajaković’s tenure – the fifth most in the NBA over that span – resulting in a total donation of $116,000 by the Rajaković family.
Source link
