The World Poker Tour Foundation, the charitable branch of the WPT, is teaming up with Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation for the fourth annual charity poker tournament. This upscale event will take place at Wynn Las Vegas on September 13, featuring a lineup of celebrities, top poker players, and notable business figures for a night of poker and entertainment.
NBA star Russell Westbrook and his wife, Nina, will host the event, which promises a VIP poker experience. The poker game starts at 6 p.m., with live commentary by Tony Dunst from WPT and co-host Drea Renee. The social gathering begins at 7:30 p.m.
The event has a $7,500 entry fee, which includes a seat in the tournament, admission to the gala for a non-playing guest, and a one-night stay at the Wynn. People who want to attend the gala but not play in the poker event can do so for $1,200. An online registration page is available for those interested in the evening’s activities.
Highlight for WNF’s Mission
The poker-night fundraiser is a key part of the Why Not? Foundation’s goal to provide opportunities for empowerment and success in underserved communities. The foundation has raised over $1 million in its previous poker-night fundraisers, with all proceeds supporting educational, workforce development, and mental health initiatives.
Recent initiatives by the WNF include:
- Opening Westbrook Academy, which now helps over 400 middle and high school students in South LA
- Hosting an annual career fair in partnership with LeadersUp
- Launching the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund with the Little Kitchen Academy
- Running a two-day basketball camp hosted by Russell Westbrook, benefiting over 100 youth in South LA
- Starting the annual Women’s History Month brunch with Bene by Nina, connecting women leaders in mental health and wellness
“We are excited to partner with the World Poker Tour for this event and offer an extraordinary experience for our supporters,” said Westbrook, a nine-time NBA All-Star and the 2016-17 MVP. “This tournament gives people a chance to play with top poker professionals while helping us make a big difference in the Los Angeles community.”
WPT CEO Adam Pliska added, “We are proud to work with the Why Not? Foundation to support underserved communities in South Los Angeles. Russell Westbrook’s vision for the foundation aligns perfectly with our mission at the WPT Foundation.”
About the World Poker Tour
World Poker Tour is a leader in poker entertainment, with tournaments in 48 countries and over $1.5 billion in prizes. Since 2002, WPT has fueled the global poker craze through its TV show, now in its 22nd season on Bally Sports. The WPT Foundation, founded in 2012, has raised over $50 million for causes like human rights and education. Visit WPT.com for details.
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