Russell Westbrook, one of the top scoring guards in NBA history, is taking his talents to Las Vegas for an evening of poker, and more importantly to raise money for a good cause.
The World Poker Tour (WPT) Foundation and Russell Westbrook's Why Not? Foundation is partnering on a poker charity venture at Wynn Las Vegas Friday night. The fourth annual upscale Poker Night fundraiser takes place inside the Intrigue Nightclub, one of the fanciest clubs on the Strip.
Now in its fourth year, the event promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment, featuring a VIP poker experience, appearances from world-class poker players, and live commentary by WPT Commentator, Champion, and WSOP bracelet winner Tony Dunst.
Alongside his wife Nina Westbrook, the 2016-2017 Most Valuable Player (MVP) runs the Why Not? Foundation, a nonprofit designed to create pathways of empowerment for underserved communities with a focus on education, workforce development programs, and mental health and wellness resources.
The charity announced a partnership last month with the World Poker Tour Foundation for a Poker Night, one of the marquee events hosted by the Why Not? Foundation. Poker players, basketball fans, and those interested in helping to raise money for a beneficial cause are invited to attend.
A $7,500 donation gives guests a ticket to the poker tournament, a one-night stay at Wynn on Sept. 13, and admission to a pre- and post-poker cocktail party for the donor and a guest. Those who don't want to play poker can join in on the other fun for a $1,200 donation.
“We are honored to work with Why Not? Foundation in their fundraising efforts to elevate the underserved populations of South Los Angeles,” said WPT CEO Adam Pliska. “Russell Westbrook’s vision for Why Not? is perfectly aligned with the mission of the WPT Foundation.”
The poker event will feature some world-class players, including WPT announcer and champion Tony Dunst, who will provide live commentary of the poker game.
Westbrook has averaged 21.7 points per game over a lengthy NBA career, and has been selected to the All-Star team nine times.