Full Breakdown
Knicks Champion Turns Cat Advocate: OG Anunoby’s “Starting Five” Adoption Drive
6/20/2026, 10:29:01 PM
The Initiative: OG’s Starting Five
New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby selected five shelter cats—Penne, Sammy, Roxie, Damu and Lil Leo—for adoption through the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACCNY) shortly after the Knicks secured their first NBA championship in 53 years. The campaign, launched with Royal Canin and VCA Animal Hospitals, offers each adopter a year of Royal Canin food and VCA exams.
Background: From Finals Hero to Feline Advocate
Anunoby’s game-winning tip-in in Game 4 of the 2024 NBA Finals helped the Knicks complete a 29-point comeback and clinch the title, ending a championship drought dating back to 1973. A June 18 ticker-tape parade celebrated the victory, and the player’s heightened public profile provided a platform for his animal-welfare effort.
Key Participants and Partnerships
Key participants include OG Anunoby, the Knicks forward; Animal Care Centers of NYC, the city’s largest shelter system; Royal Canin, which provides a year of pet food and donated 50,000 lb of food via Greater Good Charities; VCA Animal Hospitals, offering a year of unlimited exams through its Healthy Start Program that supports more than 150 shelter partners; ACCNY communications director Katy Hansen; VCA chief medical officer Dr. Julia Georgesen; and cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy.
Adoption Outcomes and Support Benefits
Within days of the announcement, three of the five cats—including senior Damu, who has medical issues—were adopted. The remaining cats, Roxie and Lil Leo, stay available for adoption. Each new owner receives a full year of Royal Canin pet food and unlimited veterinary care from VCA, removing two common barriers to shelter adoption.
Why the Drive Matters
ACCNY officials note that the high-profile selection increased foot traffic, leading many visitors to adopt cats beyond the five highlighted. Hansen emphasized that athlete endorsements can motivate especially young fans to consider adoption, a crucial factor as shelters nationwide report crisis-level demand. By coupling visibility with health and nutrition support, the initiative aims to improve adoption rates and long-term pet welfare.
Official Statements & Responses
Katy Hansen said the campaign gave the chosen cats greater exposure and could inspire broader community adoption. Dr. Georgesen highlighted VCA’s commitment to ensuring every adopted pet receives a healthy start, citing the organization’s extensive shelter network. Jackson Galaxy urged individuals to seek a shelter cat, stressing that a suitable match exists for every person.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This really made it possible for this cat to be adopted,” — Katy Hansen, Director of Communications, ACCNY
- “They're some of our favorites. Especially the ginger Roxie. Gingers are very special. We had over 300 to choose from, so we were really happy with his selection.” — Katy Hansen, ACCNY
- “We believe every adopted pet deserves a happy, healthy head start in their new home,” — Dr. Julia Georgesen, VCA Chief Medical Officer
- “Whoever you are, I can find you a cat,” — Jackson Galaxy, cat behaviorist
What’s Next
ACCNY plans to open the Bronx’s first full-service animal shelter in 2025, building on the success of “OG’s Starting Five.”
