Minnesota Timberwolves star and France international Rudy Gobert put on his Santa hat on Monday and gifted over 450 Target Center workers $50 each as a token of appreciation for their services.
Donating cash gifts to hundreds of people is not only a big deal, but a commendable gesture as the 7’1″ big man’s bill was more than $22,500, TMZ reported. Gobert’s team said the recipients included ushers, security personnel, concession staff, and changeover crew.
Gobert performing a goodwill gesture to arena staff is nothing new. During his time with the Utah Jazz, he donated $500,000 to a relief fund that was set up for employees at Vivint Smart Home Arena. That was in the wake of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
The donation was disbursed to families the pandemic affected. And the recipients included residents in Utah, Oklahoma City, and his home country of France. The 30-year-old All-Star center joined the Minnesota Timberwolves this year after he was traded from Utah Jazz. And though he did not feature in Monday’s game as a result of an ankle injury, he has had an impressive season as he has averaged double-double figures.
Gobert is also undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the league. He has won the award for Defensive Player of the Year on three occasions. Also a three-time NBA All-Star, Gobert – whose father is from Guadeloupe – has made the All-Defensive First Team six times.
Gobert recorded the highest number of blocks in the 2016–17 season. He was also the league’s top rebounder in the 2021–22 season.
Tonight, @rudygobert27 gifted more than 450 @TargetCenterMN employees each with $50 as a thank you for the contributions each and every night! pic.twitter.com/wjEPncl1Ww
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) December 20, 2022
