Beyond the Court: Cole Anthony’s Heritage, Values, and Impact on Community
As a sports journalist covering the NBA, I’ve witnessed many rising stars, but few shine as brightly on and off the court as Cole Anthony. The Orlando Magic guard isn’t just making waves with his dynamic play – he’s creating ripples of change throughout his community.
Born with basketball in his blood, Cole Anthony represents a compelling blend of athletic excellence and social consciousness. The son of former NBA player Greg Anthony and accomplished lawyer-filmmaker Crystal McCrary, his story is one of rich heritage and purposeful living.
Growing up in the cultural melting pot of Harlem after moving from Portland, Oregon, as a toddler, Anthony’s African-American roots run deep. His childhood streets weren’t just pathways—they were classrooms teaching invaluable lessons about community, resilience, and pride. These early influences have clearly shaped his approach to basketball and life.
While Anthony keeps his religious beliefs private, his actions speak volumes about his moral foundation. His motto, “To whom much is given, much is expected,” echoes through every community initiative he undertakes. This isn’t just an empty philosophy—it’s a call to action that Anthony answers regularly.
The numbers tell an impressive story: Through his 50 Ways Foundation, Anthony has created a lasting impact in Orlando and Harlem. His foundation goes beyond typical celebrity charity work, offering:
- Basketball clinics for youth development
- Financial literacy workshops
- Mentorship programs
- Game tickets for underprivileged families
- School lunch assistance
- Holiday support for families in need
His efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. The NBA recognized his commitment with the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award in 2022. Following this, he received the 2023-2024 Rich & Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award, cementing his status as a community leader.
Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley puts it perfectly: “It’s been a constant for him. It speaks to his character. It speaks to his care. It speaks to exactly what we discuss when you are with the Orlando Magic, where it’s more than the basketball court.”
Anthony’s heritage as an African-American athlete from Harlem isn’t just part of his biography – it’s a driving force behind his mission to create change. His parents’ influence shines through in every initiative: his father’s athletic legacy and his mother’s emphasis on education and creativity have developed a uniquely well-rounded approach to community service.
What’s particularly striking about Anthony’s community work is its consistency. This isn’t about photo ops or PR moves – it’s about sustained, meaningful impact. Whether running basketball clinics in Harlem or organizing holiday assistance in Orlando, Anthony brings the same intensity he shows on the court to his community work.
The young NBA star proves that athletic excellence and social responsibility aren’t mutually exclusive. They can amplify each other. His story reminds us that true stardom isn’t measured just in points scored or games won but in lives touched and communities strengthened.
As Anthony continues to evolve as a player and a community leader, one thing remains clear: his impact will be felt far beyond the final buzzer. In an era when athletes are increasingly using their platforms for social good, Cole Anthony isn’t just participating in the conversation—he’s helping to lead it.