The Annual Hosted in Partnership with the World Poker Tour Foundation Has Raised More than $1.5M to Date, Funding Education, Workforce Development, and Mental Health Programs in South Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES, CA / LAS VEGAS, NV (July 9, 2025) — NBA icon, Russell Westbrook and his Why Not? Foundation will return to Wynn Las Vegas for the 5th Annual Why Not? Foundation Poker Night, taking place Friday, September 12, 2025 at the Intrigue Nightclub. Hosted by Russell and Nina Westbrook, the milestone event will once again be held in partnership with the World Poker Tour® Foundation, combining philanthropy and world-class poker for an upscale evening of entertainment and impact.
The annual Poker Night fundraiser has become a cornerstone philanthropic event for the Why Not? Foundation, raising more than $1.5 million to date with all proceeds benefiting WNF’s mission to create pathways of empowerment through educational access, workforce development, and vital mental health and wellness programs in underserved communities. Notable past attendees include Chris Paul, Jason Koon, Maria Ho, Antonio Esfandiari and more.
“As we celebrate five years of this incredible event, I’m proud of the lasting impact we’ve made together,” said Russell Westbrook, nine-time NBA All-Star and founder of the Why Not? Foundation. “Poker Night has become a place where purpose meets play; a night to raise meaningful funds to drive real change in the communities that have shaped me.”
Presented in partnership with the World Poker Tour® Foundation, this year’s event will continue a legacy of delivering an elevated poker experience combining world-class poker professionals, celebrity players, and devoted supporters in an immersive tournament setting. Professional poker player and YouTuber, Doug Polk, will provide live commentary throughout the evening with celebrated entertainment and poker reporter Drea Renee serving as event host.
“Since its inception, the World Poker Tour® Foundation has helped raise more than $50 million for philanthropic causes around the world. We are honored to support Russell and Nina Westbrook and the Why Not? Foundation by hosting such a must-attend event at Wynn Las Vegas, home of the WPT Championship,” said WPT CEO Adam Pliska.
A $10,000 donation secures a tournament seat as well as entry for up to three non-playing guests, and a personal concierge to help elevate and customize the VIP experience throughout the weekend. A $1,200 donation will secure access to the tournament and after-party for up to two guests as well as preferred room rates. For ticketing and sponsorship opportunities, please contact events@whynotfoundation.org.
About the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation
Founded in 2012, the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation aims to create pathways of empowerment for underserved populations. The foundation is committed to the perseverance of underserved communities by implementing structured educational opportunities, workforce development, and accessible mental health resources. With “Why Not?” being a personal ignition for Russell Westbrook, the foundation looks to instill this mindset in the youth while offering resources to set children and their communities up for continued success. For more information, please visit: whynotfoundation.org.
About the World Poker Tour®
World Poker Tour® (WPT®) is the premier name in internationally televised gaming and entertainment with brand presence in land-based tournaments, television, online, and mobile. WPT has hosted live poker tournaments in 48 countries, drawn more than 400,000 total entries, and awarded more than $1.5 billion in prize money. Leading innovation in the sport of poker since 2002, WPT ignited the global poker boom with the creation of a unique television show, which has broadcast globally in more than 150 countries and territories, and is currently producing its 22nd season, which airs on Bally Sports in the United States. Season XXII of WPT is sponsored by ClubWPT.com. ClubWPT.com is a unique online membership site that offers inside access to the WPT, as well as a sweepstakes-based poker club available in 43 states and territories across the United States, Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom. WPT also participates in strategic brand license, partnership, and sponsorship opportunities. In 2012, the WPT Foundation was launched, which has gone on to raise more than $50 million over 12 years and over 50 events. This unprecedented philanthropic effort is dedicated to improving our planet by supporting key charities in regards to human rights, education, world hunger and the environment. For more information, go to World Poker Tour Foundation.
©2025 WPT Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
WPT, World Poker Tour and Spade Card Design are registered trademarks of WPT Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
