CLEVELAND — Cleveland Cavaliers power forward Kevin Love was presented with the Humanitarian of the Year Award presented by Union Home Mortgage at the 21st annual Greater Cleveland Sports Awards on Thursday night.
Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, this year's event was held virtually and aired on WKYC Channel 3 and WKYC.com.
A five-time All-Star, Love's humanitarian efforts date back to 2018, when he published an essay in The Players' Tribune detailing his struggles with anxiety and depression. In the years that have followed, the UCLA product has become one of the most famous athletes to consistently discuss the importance of mental health, launching The Kevin Love Fund, which aims to promote emotional and physical well-being.
“I know so many people out there are suffering right now,” said Love in the essay. “I’m no different. I’m still going through it."
Last year, Love donated $100,000 to help team and arena staff affected by the coronavirus pandemic, which brought a premature end to the Cavs' 2019-20 season. He also donated $500,000 to anxiety and depression research at his alma mater, UCLA.
“We are very excited to award Cleveland Cavalier Kevin Love with Humanitarian of the Year,” said David Gilbert, President and CEO of Greater Cleveland Sports Commission.
“This first-year award which recognizes sports leaders who give back to our community, was incredibly important to us coming off such a difficult year for so many. Love’s commitment to help other with their mental health, willingness to provide financial aid and support front line workers is truly inspirational.”
The 2021 Greater Cleveland Sports Awards was hosted by 3News' Jay Crawford and included video presentations from 3News' Jim Donovan. You can watch the ceremony below: