Jason Koon and others dropped in to help support the NBA star’s charity
On September 13, the WPT Foundation teamed up with Russell Westbrook’s Why Not? Foundation for the NBA star’s 4th Annual Poker Night at Wynn Las Vegas. This event aimed to raise funds to support the Why Not? Foundation, a nonprofit focused on empowering underserved communities through “education, workforce development, and mental health resources,” according to the company.
The charity poker event drew a mix of celebrities and top poker professionals. Among the notable names were poker stars Jason Koon, Tom Marchese, Alan Keating, Brandon Steven, Adam Hendrix, and Dan Shak. Additionally, NBA All-Star Chris Paul and other celebrities like Princess Love were in attendance. The World Poker Tour (WPT) was well-represented, with Adam Pliska, Matt Savage, Vince Van Patten, and Tony Dunst taking part in the event, with Dunst also co-hosting alongside Drea Renee.
Attendees competed for prizes that included floor seats to a Denver Nuggets game, a signed jersey, and a meet-and-greet with Westbrook, which came with a private basketball lesson. The event has become a staple for the Why Not? Foundation, and while exact figures are yet to be released for this year, the charity event has raised more than $1.5 million over the past four years. All proceeds go directly toward supporting the foundation’s mission.
Amelia Williamson, Principal and Chief Strategist of the Why Not? Foundation, expressed gratitude for the continued support. She emphasized that the generosity of participants and partners helps broaden the foundation’s reach and create meaningful pathways for underserved communities in South Los Angeles. Organizers are optimistic about the event’s future and aim to expand its impact in the coming years.
