BREAKING NEWS: Thunder Legend Nick Collison Donates $4.5 Million to Build Housing Facility for Homeless and At-Risk Youth in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City — In a heartwarming act of generosity and community leadership, Oklahoma City Thunder legend Nick Collison has announced a monumental $4.5 million donation toward the construction of a new housing facility aimed at supporting homeless and underprivileged youth in Oklahoma City.
The upcoming state-of-the-art complex, to be named The Collison Hope Center, will serve as a sanctuary for young individuals facing housing insecurity, providing them with shelter, meals, counseling, and educational support. The facility is expected to house over 100 youth annually and offer access to vocational training and mentorship programs designed to empower them with tools for long-term success.
Collison, who spent his entire 15-year NBA career with the Seattle SuperSonics and Oklahoma City Thunder, has long been recognized for his leadership both on and off the court. His latest initiative is being hailed as one of the most impactful charitable contributions by a professional athlete in the city’s history.
“I’ve always believed that we should give back to the community that gave so much to us,” said Collison during Thursday’s press conference. “This city is home. I’ve seen the challenges our youth face, and I want them to know they’re not forgotten. This center is about giving them a real chance at stability, hope, and a future.”
Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt praised Collison’s commitment to social change, calling the donation “a transformative moment for our city’s future.”
Thunder General Manager Sam Presti also released a statement, applauding Collison’s “unwavering compassion and leadership,” noting, “Nick is the heart of OKC basketball, and now he’s becoming the heart of its healing.”
Construction of The Collison Hope Center is set to begin later this year, with an anticipated opening date in fall 2026. The Thunder community and citizens of Oklahoma alike are celebrating the legacy of a man whose contributions off the court continue to shine just as brightly.