The Steve Patterson Award for Excellence in Sports Philanthropy

The Patterson Award honors the legacy of Steve Patterson, whose outstanding basketball career was surpassed only by his giving heart, unwavering optimism, unifying leadership, and dedication to improving the lives of others.

When I think of Steve, the saying, "you make a living by what you get and you make a life by what you give" along with "you can give without loving but you can't love without giving," signify the man and the life that Steve Patterson was committed to being in sports and in life.”

Coach John Wooden

About Steve Patterson

Steve became widely known as the center of three national championship teams at UCLA, as an NBA player, and as head coach at ASU, but it was his contributions off the court—uniting businesses and communities to help those less fortunate—that are his most enduring.

After Steve’s death from cancer at age 56, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation created this first-of-its-kind award in 2005. It celebrates and promotes the selfless service of those within the world of sports whose passionate efforts make a difference in the lives around them.

Contact us

For more information about the Steve Patterson Award contact:
Alisha Greenberg
pattersonaward@rwjf.org
(301) 657-9379

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