CLEVELAND — LeBron James is giving back to a champion who shaped his life.

The Cavaliers star is donating $2.5 million to support an exhibit honouring Muhammad Ali exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington.

"Muhammad Ali: A Force for Change" opened in September to honour the legacy of the boxing champ, social activist and world ambassador whose contributions transcended the sports world.

James' business partner, Maverick Carter, also is contributing as part of the donation.

The exhibit includes artifacts such as Ali's headgear and the training robe worn at Dundee's Fifth Street Gym. It celebrates the late champion's achievements in community activism, resistance, politics, spirituality and culture.

Ali died in June at age 74.