Last few years have been extremely challenging for Oakland. First, they saw their beloved Warriors franchise switch home base to San Francisco’s Chase Center. A year later, the Raiders skipped town and moved to Las Vegas. And the city’s final hope, the Athletics, also followed in the Raiders’ footsteps and left for Sin City. That’s three major sports franchises valued at a combined $17.3 billion leaving in a span of five years. Obviously, this was a huge blow to Oakland’s economy. But with the commencement of this year’s All-Star festivities, all eyes are back on the Bay Area this weekend.

Of course, the star-studded events taking place on the hardwood will be the major highlight. However, the focus will also be on uplifting the Oakland community. And who better to lead the charge than Bay Area’s own, Stephen Curry!

As part of the league’s Day of Service, Steph and Ayesha led their Eat.Learn.Play. Foundation to two local schools in Oakland on Friday. With nearly 300 volunteers taking part, including Warriors’ legends Andre Iguodala and Shaun Livingston, the foundation helped remodel the school by planting several trees and painting murals on campus walls. Even the school library was stocked with new books for the children to expand their knowledge.

Turns out, Sonics legend Gary Payton was also part of the wholesome initiative alongside The Baby-Faced Assassin. Although The Glove never played for the Warriors, he was born and raised in East Oakland. Addressing the impact of their effort this weekend, Payton said, “It makes it a lot easier for these kids. These kids get more motivation… And that’s the best thing around here for right now.” 

In true GP fashion, he was seen coaching the young kids and hyping them up after a made basket. Meanwhile, Steph also understood how much the city needs their support right now, “Oakland’s lost a lot over the years in terms of sports franchises and that hope and inspiration. So, for us to remain present there and plant our flag there is really important.” So, Steph and Ayesha’s initiative is surely a morale booster for the community, “That foundation is so important for them to get there. We want them to feel like they have an opportunity to do whatever they wanna do.” Moreover, Steph is not the only NBA superstar doing wonders for the city of Oakland.

Damian Lillard brings $25,000 relief for Bay Area students

Although Lillard has never been a part of the Warriors franchise, he has deep ties with Oakland. That’s because long before he became an NBA superstar, he was a student at Oakland High School. Sure enough, he used this All-Star Break as an opportunity to give back to the community, as he visited his old school for a massive announcement, “Here to announce a partnership with Portland State of a scholarship in my name. $25,000 a year.”

Yes, as part of The Damian Lillard Scholars Program, the Bucks star will provide scholarships to students of nine local High Schools, helping them with tuition if they choose Portland State University. “Lighten the load of being an out of state student. Bringing together both of the places that I probably have the most ties to. Oakland being home and having reached the platform and success I have, I think it’s kind of my duty to come back.” Dame said.

Of course, Lillard lived in Portland for the majority of his career as part of the Blazers’ roster, and he believes that the city is a great place for young students to grow. Since his initiative, 27 students have applied to Portland State and fifteen have already received admission. Surely, that number will continue to grow in the coming days. Of course, this is a massive boost for the Oakland community and will help its kids get the best resources to build a lucrative career and become successful individuals. With Steph working to make school kids’ lives better and Lillard’s initiative providing a platform to young college students, it’s safe to say that the city is in great hands. Do you agree?