The Los Angeles Lakers have officially added their big man to pair with LeBron James and Luka Doncic. With the 40-year-old James likely entering his final season, head coach JJ Redick and the Lakers are making a full push in 2025-26.
Deandre Ayton signed a two-year, $16.6 million deal with the Lakers, which includes a player option for the second season. The contract gives the former Arizona Wildcats star a fresh start after a rocky stint with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he appeared in just 95 games across two seasons. Ayton spent his first five NBA seasons with the Phoenix Suns.
But his signing isn’t the biggest reason Ayton is going viral right now.
The 7-footer is currently making headlines for what he’s doing off the court, specifically in Jamaica, where he is honoring his roots.
According to senior ESPN NBA writer Marc J. Spears:
"New Lakers center Deandre Ayton is currently in his mother’s home country of Jamaica where his charitable foundation is refurbishing the local community center, installing electricity, providing school supplies and implementing a mobile medical unit for pre-school check-ups."
The Ayton news went viral online:
"It's amazing how much hate Ayton gets here for doing something good for others," said by this fan.
This Lakers fan is loving it: "MY CENTER LOOK AT HIM RESPECT @DeandreAyton.
Posted here: "That’s leadership and class."
"As a Jamaican myself I’m proud Ayton is my center," said this commenter.
A nice dig at an opponent here: "MY center plays for his native country. Embiid hops on the USA bandwagon."
More high praise by this fan: "Gotta appreciate these efforts. A person's more than just what they provide in the court; it's also what they do for their community that matters."
Former Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2)
Former Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2).
© Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Ayton’s father is Nigerian, while his mother has Jamaican and Bahamian heritage. He didn’t start playing basketball until the fourth grade, but by age 12, he stood 6-foot-5.
His family later moved from the Bahamas to San Diego so he could pursue basketball more seriously. After one standout season at Arizona, Ayton was selected first overall in the 2018 NBA Draft.
He earned NBA All-Rookie First Team honors in his debut season, but injuries have since limited his availability. The 71 games he played as a rookie remain the most he has appeared in during a single season.
Last year, Ayton suited up for just 40 games but still averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per contest. He has played in 45 career playoff games, posting 15.9 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.
Now with the Lakers, Ayton is hoping to stay healthy, contribute to a championship run and continue making a difference both on and off the court.