Regardless of how you feel about Kevin Durant, the basketball player, there’s no denying Kevin Durant, the person, is exceptional.

The Golden State Warriors star has long given back to the communities he’s been a part of. Delivering shoes and clothing to children during the holidays? Absolutely. Donating money to schools? Certainly. His most recent good deed: Footing the bill for four students’ first year of college.

The grateful and hard working recipients, who come from the Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula in Redwood, Calif., were surprised with the news during a ceremony in February.

“I fell on the ground just knowing somebody believes in you enough to literally invest in you,” Alysia Demery told ESPN.

“It is an absolute dream come true,” Dezmond Fraizer added. “I used to think I could only do it (go to college) through sports, and then I found my true passion of public service an politics.”

Each of the students selected have overcome the odds to shine bright during their high school years. And, each of them have utilized programs within the Boys and Girls Club to excel inside and outside of the classroom.

For some, they will be the first in their family to work toward their college degree.

“I grew up in a similar situation,” Durant explained. “Here are four kids who have been through so much already in their short lives, to get up the next day and keep pushing, keeping trucking, I was very proud just to get to meet them.”

Kids like Joselin Quinteros, who would wake up at 5:00 a.m. each day to help her housekeeper mother before heading off to school.

“I remember the big houses my mom used to clean. They were so big. I wanted all of that, and I still kind of do,” Quinteros said. “I think for me, I’ll know I’ve succeeded in life when I am able to give my mom her keys to a new home. Since I’ve been a kid, that’s always been my goal because my mom has never been stable.”

Durant said he could relate.

“I remember getting on public transportation and having to go to the nicer area in Washington D.C., and seeing something so quiet and peaceful. I wanted that for myself and my family, so I understand what that’s like for her.”

Here’s the piece ESPN put together to highlight the generous deed:

 

 

There’s no doubt that this is a gift bigger than any bucket Durant could score in front of thousands.