Russell Westbrook’s Winning Hand at Why Not? Foundation Event
Russell Westbrook, the nine-time NBA All-Star, continues to make waves beyond the basketball court through his philanthropic efforts. Following his recent campaign with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook gathered supporters in Las Vegas for the fifth annual Poker Night hosted by his Why Not? Foundation. This year’s event took place at the Intrigue Night Club within the Wynn Las Vegas, and it showcased an impressive commitment to community impact, building on the success of previous years.
A Night of Giving
The annual Poker Night has proven to be a significant fundraising event, amassing over $1.5 million in its first four iterations. This year, in collaboration with the World Poker Tour® Foundation, the event once again focused on benefiting underserved communities. The funds raised are earmarked for educational access, workforce development, and mental health and wellness programs.
In a pre-event conversation, Westbrook reflected on the evolution of Poker Night and the tangible impact it has had. “It’s been great,” he remarked. “Every year I try to challenge not just myself but my team to do more, impact more, and inspire more people. That has helped the event evolve. When people come out and show support, I’m very appreciative. To me, we’re just getting started, and I’m looking forward to continuing to impact and reach more people.”
Rooted in Community
While the glamour of Las Vegas serves as the backdrop for Poker Night, Westbrook’s mission remains deeply rooted in his hometown of Los Angeles. Growing up in South LA, he is dedicated to uplifting the community that shaped him. “Given the platform I have, there’s no excuse not to find ways to impact more people every year,” Westbrook stated. He emphasized the importance of connecting with various programs and individuals to maximize outreach. “It doesn’t take much more than time, effort, and energy to really make a difference.”
A Legacy of Consistency
As a 17-year NBA veteran, Westbrook has seamlessly integrated community service into his busy schedule. He credits the dedicated team at the Why Not? Foundation and his family for ensuring that their presence is felt in the community, even when he is not physically there. “One thing we do really well is consistency,” he explained. “Our nonprofit prides itself on showing up, not just donating. Being present goes a long way for the youth, especially in Los Angeles. Even if I can’t be there, my family or team makes sure we’re represented.”
The evening culminated in a celebration of both poker and purpose, marking a milestone in Westbrook’s journey of community impact. As the Why Not? Foundation continues to grow, its commitment to making a difference in the lives of many remains unwavering.
