BOSTON – On Tuesday, December 5, as the men's basketball team takes on Bucknell at 7 p.m., the Northeastern community will join together in raising funds for hurricane relief efforts in Puerto Rico.
 
The funds raised at the night dubbed "Paws for Puerto Rico" will support the hurricane relief efforts led by former Northeastern men's basketball standout Jose Juan Barea and his charitable foundation.
 
"We're very excited to welcome JJ back to campus on December 5," said Peter Roby, director of athletics and recreation. "What he's done for his native Puerto Rico in recent months is nothing short of remarkable, and we're looking forward to partnering with him in this humanitarian effort. The example he has set through his kindness and generosity is something that we should all aspire to."
 
Following the Category 4 storm, which devastated the entire island, Barea jumped to action using Dallas Mavericks Owner Marc Cuban's plane to deliver supplies to the island.
 
In addition, Barea, the only native Puerto Rican in the NBA, set up a YouCaring page to raise funds with an initial goal of $150,000. He has since raised over $500,000.

"J.J.'s humanitarian efforts to deliver aid to Puerto Rico and to assist in the recovery process following Hurricane Maria are inspiring," said Northeastern head coach Bill Coen. "There is still important work to be done. Our team, our department, and our university are proud to partner with J.J. in raising awareness and funds to aid the people of Puerto Rico in their recovery."
 
The evening, held in partnership with Northeastern's Latinx Student Cultural Center, will offer a range of options for attendees to contribute to the relief efforts. Additional details will be shared closer to the event.