Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković is continuing a family charitable initiative that turns his team’s assists into financial support for children’s hospitals in Canada, the United States and Serbia. The Serbian NBA coach and his wife, Gaga, have made giving back a central part of their work since arriving in Toronto in 2023.
The initiative supports three hospitals: SickKids in Toronto, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, and the University Children’s Hospital in Belgrade.
What makes the project unusual is its connection to basketball. Every successful pass that leads directly to a basket contributes to the family’s charitable commitment.
The Rajaković family began the program during the 2023–24 NBA season, pledging $20 for every Raptors assist. The contribution increased to $30 per assist the following season, coinciding with the franchise’s 30th anniversary.
For the 2025–26 season, the family raised the amount again, to $33 per assist.
Nearly $200,000 Donated in Three Seasons
The Raptors recorded 2,417 assists during the 2025–26 campaign, generating a donation of $79,761.
According to the NBA Coaches Association, the Rajaković family’s contributions reached $196,661 over three seasons, supporting children’s healthcare in all three cities.
The initiative reflects the family’s personal connections to the communities involved.
Toronto is where Rajaković currently leads the Raptors. Memphis is where he previously worked as an assistant coach with the Grizzlies, while Belgrade represents his Serbian roots and the beginning of his coaching career.
The hospitals also serve children and families facing serious medical challenges, making the initiative particularly meaningful to Rajaković and his wife as parents.
Speaking about the program when it was launched in 2024, Rajaković emphasized the resilience of the children, their families and the medical professionals caring for them.
The couple has since continued supporting the hospitals through successive NBA seasons.
A Basketball Career Connected to Three Communities
Rajaković became head coach of the Toronto Raptors in 2023 after years of coaching experience in Europe and the United States.
Before taking charge in Toronto, he worked with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns and Memphis Grizzlies organizations.
His international coaching journey has helped shape the charitable initiative, connecting the places where he has lived and worked.
For the Serbian coach, basketball success is measured by more than wins and losses. The family’s donations show how the game can also provide practical assistance to children receiving medical care.
As the Raptors begin another NBA season, the program remains an example of how professional sports can create a positive impact far beyond the basketball court.
