The Smithsonian Institution has announced a $2.5 million gift from NBA star LeBron James and his business partner, Maverick Carter, to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The gift will support the museum's exhibit "Muhammad Ali: A Force for Change," which has been on view since the museum opened in September. The exhibit includes memorabilia from the heavyweight champion's career and details how Ali's achievements transcended the world of sport, challenging racial barriers and helping to lay the groundwork for the successful careers of countless African Americans in athletics and other fields.

"We are extremely grateful to LeBron James for his support of the museum," said Damion Thomas, curator of the museum's Sports Gallery. "As the most socially active superstar in sports today, LeBron James is a testament to the influence of Muhammad Ali. Ali embodied the racial and social tumult of his times, blurring lines between politics and sports, activism and entertainment."