Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to be given Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Barack Obama named 21 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Wednesday, a list that includes NBA legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Michael Jordan.

Considered the nation's highest civilian honor a president can award, the medals will be presented at the White House on Nov. 22.

Boston Celtics legend and 11-time champion Bill Russell is the only other NBA player who has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2011).

"The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not just our nation's highest civilian honor — it's a tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better," President Obama said in a statement. "From scientists, philanthropists, and public servants to activists, athletes, and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way."

In addition to their forever-reserved spots on basketball's Mount Rushmore, Jordan and Abdul-Jabbar are both active philanthropists and outspoken advocates for social justice.

Michael Jordan donating $2 million to help address police-related shootings

Other medal recipients will include Ellen DeGeneres, Robert De Niro, Bill and Melinda Gates, Tom Hanks, Vin Scully, Bruce Springsteen and Diana Ross.

The ceremony will be streamed live at: www.whitehouse.gov/live.

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