Cheer for Jay Rich!

No matter which NBA team he’s on, I’ll always cheer for shooting guard Jason Richardson, now of the Orlando Magic.

He’s on his way home to Denver after a tough season and a disappointing loss in overtime this week, but in so many ways, “Jay Rich” is about to roll up his sleeves and really get down to work. Important work that, in the grand scheme of life, matters far more than how much defense he plays or how many points he scores.

Jason is a dedicated husband and dad. He’s got three beautiful children and an entrepreneurial wife who has built a successful business of her own. When he’s home with them, he is really home. He’s been known to reroute his schedule, step off a plane and head directly (no, officer, of course he wasn’t speeding) to his children’s school with only seconds to spare before the start of plays and musicals. He doesn’t just show up. He’s engaged.

He’s also a dedicated philanthropist with a heart for kids, and he spends time during the off-season reaching out to his littlest fans. Check out The Jason Richardson Foundation, which seeks to “make an impact on social issues,” including fatherlessness and disparities in education. The organization also focuses on projects and initiatives designed to help kids overcome negative self-imagery and understand their value and potential.

As he works to shine light on these important issues, Jason demonstrates that he’s much more substance than celebrity.