Shaq foundation, Icy Hot aid 3 Las Vegas prep programs

Three Las Vegas high school athletic programs are receiving grants from the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation and Icy Hot.

Bonanza, Desert Pines and Rancho will receive those grants.

“High schools, especially those in rural and underserved communities, have been hard hit by the pandemic and are fighting to save their athletics programs and cover the cost of crucial supplies and equipment,” said O’Neal, an NBA Hall of Famer and TNT analyst. “That’s why my longtime partner IcyHot and I worked together to develop Get Game Ready, which is providing 23 high schools across the nation with the much needed funds to help prepare for their sports season, when it’s safe to do so.”

The amounts were not announced. Icy Hot helped fund the grants by donating $1 for each box sold up to $400,000. The money will target various needs, including from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“For student-athletes, sports are a vital physical, mental and social outlet, and it’s devastating to have something that fundamental taken away,” O’Neal said in a statement. “We know how crucial athletics are, which is why we are so honored for the opportunity to work with Icy Hot and give back to schools and students. I really feel for all the kids who have had to cope with that challenge on top of the stress and isolation caused by the coronavirus pandemic, which is why I wanted to do something to help.”

Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com. Follow @markanderson65 on Twitter.