Aaron Donald, Jaylen Brown terminate partnership with Donda Academy after public backlash

Pop culture icon Kanye West opened Donda Academy with the goal of leaving a legacy in high school academics and sports. As part of his plan, the Chicago native signed multiple professional athletes to endorsement deals which helped promote both sides of the mission.

However, after recent comments were found to be hateful and antisemitic, Los Angeles Rams defensive end Aaron Donald and Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown have terminated their Donda Academy partnerships with a pair of statements on the views of their former business partner.

“The recent comments and displays of hate and antisemitism are the exact opposite of how we choose to live our lives and raise our children,” the Donald family’s statement read, in part. “We find them to be irresponsible and go against everything we believe in as a family.”

Brown, who has become well-known for his advocacy throughout his NBA career, also added that he still values the relationships he built with the kids and others recently.

“I do seek to continue providing mentorship, love and support to the incredible children, faculty, and young athletes with whom I’ve been grateful to form bonds and relationships with during my time with Donda Academy,” the statement read.

More about Donda Academy

One of Donda Academy’s biggest names on campus is Kentucky commit Robert Dillingham, the five-star senior guard from Charlotte, North Carolina transferred and became the marquee attraction for the new athletics program.

Dillingham ranks No. 8 in the country according to the On3 Consensus, as well as No. 2 among combo guards and No. 1 in his home state. He currently holds an NIL value of $688,000.