Baron Davis Scores Big in The Game of Giving

Athlete, entrepreneur, investor, creator, and changemaker—two time NBA All-Star Baron Davis is famous for his time on the court, but throughout his post-NBA business career, he’s made it his mission to find ways to positively impact society and encourage real change. This can be seen throughout many of his projects, including The Black Santa Company, which aims to inspire others to give back, celebrate diversity, and spread joy through contemporary content and products featuring the Black Santa character. 

TheChristmas.com is building partnerships and collaborating with creators, brands, and organizations who are changing the game when it comes to Christmas. We’re honored to be working with The Black Santa Company this holiday season to raise awareness of the amazing work Baron and his team are doing to inspire kids across the nation and promote storytelling in African American communities. We take a look at the vision behind this groundbreaking brand and how you can support their meaningful mission. 

Baron Davis’s Inspiration: Turning Coal Into a Cause

Baron Davis is a Los Angeles native known for being a success both on and off the basketball court, but most people don’t realize the hurdles he’s had to overcome to get to where he is today. “Where I lived, I was in the worst place that you could be. My grandparents just kind of flipped the switch and gave me stability,” Davis shared. He notes that it was the incredible love and generosity of his grandparents, who raised him and his two sisters, that inspired him to find his purpose in this world. 

In fact, his grandfather built him a basketball court for Christmas, which is where he says he found hope, healing, and a love for hoops. But unlike many others, a show stopping sports career didn’t shade his view of the world. He saw the need for change and chose to use his fame to pay it forward, blessing others in similar situations and helping them to discover that their dreams can become realities. “As I became more successful, I asked ‘how can I make sure I invest in the next generation?’ I might as well start doing for others instead of doing for myself,’” he shared. 

The Story Behind Black Santa

The Black Santa idea was born almost a decade ago, simply by chance. Without a costume for Halloween, Davis dressed up as Santa Claus and the impact of this costume was eye-opening. Davis decided to put pen to paper and create a persona that could be relatable to so many and serve as the embodiment of change for a new, philanthropic initiative. 

“Black Santa is about the spirit of giving. The spirit of us as a people. Loving each other in a positive way. I wanted to put something in the world that’s positive for our kids,” Davis said. And that’s exactly what he did, creating a purpose-driven character who seeks to serve underprivileged communities that are often overlooked. 

Who Is Black Santa?

Nicholas Nicholson, aka Black Santa, is a tech-savvy South Pole native who wants to motivate youngsters to be spirited, successful, and selfless. He’s the embodiment of the true reason for the season, connecting communities and promoting generosity year round. 

He’s also a married man, and his wife Cecilia, aka Mrs. C, is an entrepreneur, STEM whiz, and advocate for health, wellness, and justice. 

Together, they bless people and spread love around the world—reminding everyone that giving has no season! That’s the reason you will find this charismatic couple at charitable events throughout the year, creating meaningful and memorable cultural experiences for children all across the nation.

How Black Santa Initiatives Are Bringing Joy to Kids

We all know Santa is a staple at Christmas, so it should come as no surprise that every December, Davis puts on an amazing event that features his modern day Kris Kringle. One of TheChristmas.com’s Featured Events of 2025, Winter Wonderland at SLIC Studios brings festive holiday moments to the Los Angeles region, including an annual tree lighting, photo ops, music, shopping, and the chance to meet the real Black Santa and Mrs. C! 

But Baron Davis also brings his generosity to people throughout the rest of the year at charitable events and community initiatives, including celebrity pickleball tournaments, basketball games, and public events. Appearances by Black Santa and proceeds from the Black Santa Shop both proudly support area non-profits such as All For Kids, Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica, Kiddie Kredit, and the Home Too Foundation. 

Want to book Black Santa for your next event? He’s available for bookings across the country!

Follow Baron Davis’s Journey of Giving

From sharing his inspiring story to teaming up with other changemakers to support underserved communities, Baron Davis and The Black Santa Company can always be found spreading kindness, joy, and a whole lot of holiday spirit. 

Make sure to head to his website to book Black Santa for your next event and to bless someone with some of their great holiday gifts. And don’t forget to follow @iamBlackSanta on Instagram to see behind-the-scenes moments and stay connected to this inspirational organization. 

And, of course, don’t forget to check out our Holiday Hub and join our email list for more inspirational stories, top holiday events and holiday gift guides. You can find us on Instagram at @thechristmascom.