Rutgers star center Cliff Omoruyi continues to have a strong impact off the court in his community, with his latest efforts being highlighted by The Knight Society, an organization founded by Rutgers’ greats Eric LeGrand & Geo Baker.
The Knight Society held an event at Tavern on George in New Brunswick to announce a $10,000 donation to The Salvation Army for its ‘Books & Basketball’ program at its West Side facility in Newark, where ‘Big Cliff’ volunteered this summer. It was the first event held by The Knight Society, started by Baker & LeGrand to build the Rutgers community while empowering Rutgers athletes, fans, alumni, & businesses. Baker & Omoruyi played two seasons together at Rutgers, and their time with The Knight Society has only brought them closer.
“It was a special feeling getting the chance to partner up with LearnToLead and Cliff to give back to those in need at the West Side Community Center,” said Baker. “Our goal at Knight Society is to build a strong community, so when we saw we had a chance to contribute to Cliff’s vision we wanted to jump right in. We hope this leads to more student athletes using their NIL for good causes and helping others.”
A total of $10,000 was donated to Cliff’s charity partner, the Salvation Army in Newark, NJ. The donation was made by LearnToLead, a local business owned by Dave Anderson.
Omoruyi has made a strong impact on the Books & Basketball program this summer & continues to grow his presence within the community. The big man recently agreed to an NIL deal with dessert chain 16 Handles, who agreed to make a $2500 donation to the Books & Basketball program in Omoruyi’s name.
“The “Big Cliff” nickname has taken on an added dimension,” said Robert Zito, IPZ Managing Partner. “”He’s not only “big” on the court and on campus, but he’s also doing big things in the community.”