John Calipari was back at the Naismith Hall of Fame yesterday to accept the Service Above Self Award for his charitable efforts. Cal was honored alongside Jeb Belise, a longtime West Springfield resident whose family business has displayed a longstanding commitment to community service.
“We’re very pleased to be recognizing Jeb Balise and John Calipari for their outstanding philanthropic work and service to others,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame. “On a regional, national and even global scale, their impact can be seen and felt.”
In addition to helping 46 players get drafted by the NBA during his career, Calipari has raised millions of dollars for those in need through telethons for natural disaster relief, his annual fantasy camp, and The Calipari Foundation.