The American Heart Association is leveraging the popularity of professional basketball players to raise critical awareness about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a skill that could potentially save thousands of lives annually. With more than half of sudden cardiac arrest victims not receiving immediate CPR, the organization is launching an innovative public education campaign featuring NBA and NBA G League athletes as ambassadors.
Recent survey data reveals a modest but promising increase in public CPR readiness, with the percentage of adults confident in performing CPR rising from 30% to 35% between 2021 and 2023. This incremental progress underscores the importance of continued education and outreach efforts.
The 2025 Nation of Lifesaver NBA/G League Ambassador Class includes nine professional basketball players who will support CPR awareness through public service announcements and social media content. These athletes, including players from teams like the Utah Jazz, San Antonio Spurs, and Atlanta Hawks, will help demonstrate the simplicity and importance of learning this lifesaving technique.
According to the American Heart Association, nearly 23,000 children under 18 experience cardiac arrests outside hospitals annually, with approximately 40% occurring among student-athletes. With roughly 75% of cardiac arrests happening in home environments, the ability to perform CPR can mean the difference between life and death.
The campaign emphasizes that learning Hands-Only CPR takes just 90 seconds and can significantly improve survival chances. The recommended technique involves calling emergency services immediately and performing chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute, with a compression depth of approximately two inches.
This initiative builds upon the momentum generated by the Nation of Lifesavers movement, which was launched in 2023 following the high-profile cardiac arrest of NFL player Damar Hamlin. The American Heart Association's ambitious goal is to double survival rates of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by 2030, positioning this campaign as a critical public health intervention.
By partnering with professional athletes who are respected and admired by millions, the organization hopes to demystify CPR and encourage more people to learn this essential skill. The ambassadors represent not just athletic excellence, but a commitment to community health and potential life-saving action.
