Thunderous Intentions
Fansided

Taj Gibson: Your guide to the OKC Thunder’s secret weapon

By Heather Koontz

Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) speaks to the media prior to action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) speaks to the media prior to action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
7 of 9
Next
Taj Gibson
Mar 14, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Consequently, Oklahoma City Thunder shooting guard Victor Oladipo (5) celebrates his three point shot against the Brooklyn Nets with Thunder power forward Taj Gibson (22) during the fourth quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Philanthropy

Gibson is a man of humility and heart. Due to the devastating events of his past, coupled with the values instilled in him by his parents, he knows the impact of hope.

“I had great parents, and they instilled a lot of great things in me,” Gibson told the Bulls. “They taught me to help others, and that’s what I’m trying to do.”

During his time in Chicago, Gibson participated in the organization’s “adopt-a-family” campaign.

“It’s such an important time of year,” Gibson said. “There are a lot of families struggling to get gifts for their kids and I want to help in any way that I can. If it means putting a smile on the faces of a family or taking the burden off of their back, it’s important. I was in that position growing up and I didn’t really have a lot of toys as a kid. Now, I’m in a position to help others.

Complete Guide to OKC Thunder vs Rockets first round series.

“To be able to reach out and touch an individual family is huge. It’s about spreading joy. It’s good karma.”

Notably, that charitable attitude hasn’t changed since Gibson became a Thunder player. Alongside McDermott, Gibson spent time on the Rolling Thunder Books Bus in March, greeting students from Orvis Risner Elementary and encouraging them to read.

Now, as the ’16-’17 season nears its end, there will be plenty of opportunities for Gibson to give back off the court.

Home/Thunder News