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Joakim Noah extends condolences after murder of rapper Lil Durk's manager

Kamil Krzaczynski / Reuters

Having spent all eight seasons of his NBA career with the Chicago Bulls, Joakim Noah is well aware of the social and economic problems that plague the Illinois city.

Noah's organization, the Noah's Arc Foundation, is heavily involved in Chicago's anti-violence campaign, which has allowed him to team up with local rappers such as Lil Durk.

The rapper's manager, Uchenna Agina, was murdered on Friday only hours after meeting up with Noah to discuss plans for an anti-violence event. Following the Bulls' 111-80 win over the New York Knicks on Saturday night, Noah extended his condolences to family and friends of Agina.

"It's very sad," Noah said, according to ESPN. "What's going on in this city is very real. I signed up for this. I'm just like doing everything I can to do something positive. Just need to keep up the good fight. I know everything I'm doing with my foundation comes from my heart. I think it's real important that we don't turn our backs on anybody.

"I just know somebody came to my house. We were talking about doing some work for the kids and doing something positive. He got murdered. I never experienced anything like that. My respects go to his family and to his friends. I just hope we can find solutions."

The Florida product continued by insisting that he won't listen to those who tell him to avoid certain individuals in Chicago.

"We need everybody involved," Noah said. "Even these rappers, a lot of people tell me to stay away from certain people. I'm not staying away from anybody. We need everybody involved in this. The reason why I think these rappers are important is because even though their message is violent in Chicago, they are a force."

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