Las Vegas, September 18, 2025: The 5th Annual Why Not? Foundation Poker Night, in partnership with the WPT Foundation, brought together celebrities, athletes, and poker legends for a night of high-energy competition and meaningful impact at Wynn Las Vegas.
With more than 50 players and 150 guests in attendance, the evening showcased the power of community and entertainment to raise critical support for the Why Not? Foundation’s mission to empower underserved youth.
A Night of Impact
Beyond the poker, true victory was in the generosity displayed throughout the evening. With the support of players and guests, the event successfully raised more than double what we did last year, an incredible testament to the impact we can make together.
Nine-time NBA All-Star & founder of the Why Not? Foundation Russell Westbrook (left) & Michael Mizrachi (right)
Stars on the Felt
The event drew a remarkable lineup of talent from across sports, business, and poker.
NBA notables in attendance included:
DeAndre Jordan
DeMar DeRozan
Norman Powell
Delon Wright
Adin Hill from the Las Vegas Golden Kinights, was joined by some of poker’s most celebrated names: Michael Mizrachi, Princess Love, Antonio Esfandiari, Erik Seidel, Dan Shak, Jeff Gross, Steven Jones, Vince Van Patten, Matt Savage, and Joe Ingram all hit the tables to support the cause.
They were joined by Publicis CEO Dave Pensky, adding a business spotlight to the evening.
Crowning a Champion
After hours of play, the final table came down to an exciting showdown, with Lee Merschon ultimately claiming the top prize and earning the exclusive WPT x Daniel Arsham Poker Chip Set trophy.
The WPT Foundation is proud to partner with Russell Westbrook’s Why Not? Foundation for this special evening of competition and community. Together, we continue to prove that when people come together at the table, they can change lives far beyond it.
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.
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