Hornets Accept Applications for $10,000 Rick Bonnell Memorial Journalism Scholarship
It gives $10,000 to one journalism student. Students attending any college or university in North Carolina can apply. The window closes Feb. 23.
A general view of the court during the first half of a basketball game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Golden State Warriors at Spectrum Center on March 03, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Photo by David Jensen/Getty ImagesThe Charlotte Hornets began taking applications Tuesday for the fifth annual Rick Bonnell Memorial Scholarship. It gives $10,000 to one journalism student. Students attending any college or university in North Carolina can apply. The window closes Feb. 23.
A panel of judges will choose who wins. Judges include people from the Hornets, Bonnell's kids Jack and Claire, and his old colleagues at The Charlotte Observer.
The winner receives the award at Spectrum Center before the team plays the Memphis Grizzlies on March 21. This year's recipient also participates in the "Rick Bonnell Experience."
The student gets media credentials. They become part of the working press. This allows access to all standard media activities before and after the game.
Rick Bonnell began writing about the franchise in its first season back in 1988-89. He kept going through the 2020-21 season. Bonnell covered the NBA in Charlotte for more than three decades before dying in 2021 at age 63.
The program was created in 2021 as a way for the team to honor Bonnell and celebrate his career chronicling the organization. He kept The Charlotte Observer's readers informed throughout his time on the beat, making sure fans everywhere knew what was happening.
"Our father believed deeply in the power of journalism and the responsibility that comes with telling stories the right way," Jack and Claire said in a joint statement, according to The Charlotte Observer. "This scholarship continues to reflect his love for the craft and his commitment to supporting young journalists who are eager to shape the future of the profession."
The siblings expressed excitement about this year's submissions. "We're genuinely excited to see this year's submissions and to help recognize another passionate, early-career journalist who embodies the curiosity and dedication he valued so much," they said.
Students can apply through an online form on the team's website. Feb. 23 is the deadline.
