US: LeBron donates $2.5M to Muhammad Ali exhibit

NEW YORK (AA) – Basketball superstar LeBron James donated $2.5 million to honor a Muhammad Ali exhibit, according to an NBA statement Thursday.

"Every professional athlete, regardless of race and gender, owes a huge debt of gratitude to Muhammad Ali," James said in the statement published by The Associated Press.

"His legacy deserves to be studied and revered by every generation," the three-time NBA champion noted.

Muhammad Ali: A Force for Change on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington reflects on Ali’s legacy in and out of the boxing ring, his achievements as a social activist, including memorabilia such as boxing equipment.

"I am overwhelmed by the incredible generosity LeBron James has shown," Ali's wife, Lonnie, said in the statement.

"This exhibit will enable children visiting the Smithsonian to learn more about Muhammad's work outside of the ring, particularly his humanitarian work and stance on social justice for all people."

Ali stood against the military draft in 1967 due to his religious beliefs and opposition to the Vietnam War. He was found guilty of draft evasion and lost his boxing license. After standing his ground for nearly four years, the Supreme Court overturned his conviction in 1971 and he returned to the ring.

The three-time world heavyweight champion died June 3 at the age of 74 after suffering from a respiratory illness and a years-long fight with Parkinson’s disease.