LOS ANGELES (Nov. 8, 2019) – Before the Lakers suit up for the Veterans Day game on November 10th, more than 50 U.S. servicemembers living and stationed in Southern California will take the STAPLES Center court and participate in a basketball skills clinic, coached by Lakers legend James Worthy.
The Lakers and Pechanga Resort Casino created the “Hoops for Troops” program in 2015 to honor armed forces around Southern California. The program returned for its fifth year with the first two clinics, coached by Laker Legends AC Green and Robert Horry, on October 29th and November 8th prior to Lakers home games. These clinics offer the chance for 50 U.S. Armed Forces servicemembers to receive tips from Lakers legends on shooting, dribbling and other skills, as well as some friendly competition. With their families able to watch from the STAPLES Center stands, servicemembers receive free t-shirts, tickets to that evening’s Lakers game and amazing lifelong memories.
“The Lakers organization wants servicemembers to know we are here to support them and appreciate the sacrifices they make for us every day. We look to provide experiences for them and their families both on and off the court through our Hoops for Troops program. Providing an opportunity for these servicemembers to take a night off and have some fun in an honor we cherish,” said Matt Makovec, the Lakers Director of Community Relations.
“We deeply appreciate the tireless work of our military and this is one small way we can show them support,” said Jared Munoa, President of the Pechanga Development Corporation. “Over the last several years, these practice sessions with the pros have helped show our servicemembers how many people care about them and value their dedication to protecting our country."
The Hoops for Troops clinic on Nov. 10 will be from 1:00p.m. to 2:00p.m. Media members credentialed by the Lakers Media Relations department are welcome to attend and cover the clinics, talk with military participants, their families and Lakers personnel. Please send requests to media@la-lakers.com to be placed on a list. Special instructions for early access to the courts will be provided.