Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković is not only focused on the court but also on contributing to the community. As part of his commitment to philanthropy, Rajaković has continued his tradition of donating to children’s hospitals. This season, he has pledged a substantial donation of $70,200 USD, which will be shared among SickKids in Toronto, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, and University Children’s Hospital in Belgrade, Serbia.
Rajaković and his wife, Gaga, initially pledged to donate $20 for every assist the Raptors achieved during the 2023-24 season. However, in light of the Raptors’ 30th anniversary, they decided to raise the contribution to $30 per assist for the current season. This announcement was made during the team's annual visit to SickKids in January, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and support for child health.
In a statement released by the team, Rajaković expressed his gratitude towards healthcare professionals, saying, “Thank you once again to the hundreds of healthcare professionals in Toronto, Memphis, and back home in Belgrade for all that you do for children and families that need your support.” He emphasized how his family has been inspired by the dedication of these professionals and expressed anticipation for future visits to these hospitals.
This philanthropic initiative aligns with the coaching style that Rajaković has implemented since taking over as head coach. His egalitarian approach to play is evident in how the Raptors have performed in terms of assists on the court. In the 2024-25 season, Toronto set a single-season franchise record with a remarkable total of 2,340 assists. Under Rajaković's coaching, the Raptors have finished sixth and seventh in the league for assists per game over the past two seasons, illustrating the effectiveness of his strategy.
During Rajaković’s tenure, the Raptors recorded a total of 4,675 assists, which ranks as the fifth-most in the NBA during that time frame. This impressive performance has resulted in a cumulative donation of $116,000 by the Rajaković family to support children’s health initiatives. The coach’s commitment to sharing the wealth on and off the court reflects his values and dedication to making a positive impact beyond basketball.
