NEW YORK – Los Angeles Sparks center Amanda Zahui B. has been named the May WNBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by State Farm^® recipient for her participation in health and wellness programming, contributions to the LGBTQ+ community, and her ongoing commitment to support and uplift marginalized groups by serving as a role model to young girls and dedicating her time to helping the homeless population.

Zahui B. participated in the Sparks’ Healthy Mind/Healthy Body Virtual event, where she spoke with local teens and their parents during Mental Health Awareness Month. Zahui B. was commended by the event’s sponsor, Anthem Blue Cross, for her authenticity and transparency during the event.

In celebration of WNBA Pride presented by Deloitte, Zahui B. wrote an article for wnba.com on what PRIDE means to her. She continues to serve as a role model and ally to the LGBTQ+ community and is constantly offering her time to do community appearances and share her experiences.

Additionally, Zahui B. started a book club with a local 14-year-old girls AAU basketball team. The group focuses on the work of Black authors and meets together via zoom to read together and discuss passages. Similarly, Zahui B. has shown interest in the continued work the Sparks do with Read for America.

Further, Zahui B., in her first season with the Sparks, is passionate and committed to creating a more comfortable environment for the homeless population in Los Angeles. Recently, she has dedicated her time and resources to volunteering in soup kitchens, handing out water, and donating necessities such as feminine products.

“Giving back to the community is a core part of being my authentic self. I’m passionate about inspiring youth and making the world a better place,” said Zahui B. “This is just the beginning of the impact I plan to make in Los Angeles, raising awareness about mental health and helping make our community a better place for everyone.”

The WNBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by State Farm^® is awarded monthly during the season to the player who best reflects the WNBA’s passion to make a difference in the community.  In recognition of Zahui B.’s efforts, the WNBA and State Farm^®  will donate $5,000 to benefit The Children’s Institute.

Please visit wnba.com/statefarmcommunityassist for more information on the award and its recipients.