Alamo — NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton is back on the links for the third annual Gary Payton Golf Tournament, once again bringing together an all-star lineup of basketball legends and celebrities for a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and philanthropy.
This year’s tournament features Basketball Hall of Famer Jason Kidd, WNBA and Basketball Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman, and several of Payton’s former Seattle SuperSonics teammates, including Shawn Kemp and Detlef Schrempf. Comedians Mark Curry and Alex Thomas also joined the festivities, adding laughs to a weekend dedicated to giving back to the community.
The weekend officially teed off Sunday evening at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, where comedian Mark Curry kept the crowd entertained as emcee while the Gary Payton Foundation hosted its annual fundraising auction. A highlight of the evening was the “Fund-A-Need” campaign, which raised up to $75,000 to support youth sports programs and provide academic scholarships, helping students continue their education and pursue their goals.
Payton’s commitment to giving back extends well beyond the golf tournament. Next month, he will be honored by The Salvation Army of Alameda County at the 2026 Way Out Gala on Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland. The annual gala raises critical funding for family services, homelessness initiatives, children’s programs, and recovery services that help individuals and families overcome addiction, poverty, and abuse.
Payton is being recognized for a legacy of leadership, resilience, and community service that reflects the mission of The Way Out Gala, creating opportunities, restoring hope, and helping build stronger futures for children and families throughout the Bay Area.
Gary Payton’s impact continues to grow beyond the Bay Area. The NBA Hall of Famer, who currently serves as an NBA ambassador and head coach in the BIG3, announced plans to expand his charitable golf tournament to Seattle, Washington, a city where he became a basketball icon, led the Seattle SuperSonics to sustained success, and captivated sold-out crowds throughout his Hall of Fame career.
Monday’s tournament at Round Hill Country Club offered golfers more than just a day on the course. Despite temperatures expected to reach 98 degrees, participants were treated to premium food, refreshing beverages, live entertainment, and interactive experiences at nearly every hole. Payton promised a surprise at each stop, creating a festival-like atmosphere that has become a signature of the annual event.
Among the featured activations was BETdat!, an innovative peer-to-peer sports gaming platform that allows competitors to stake themselves in contests while giving spectators the opportunity to engage with live outcomes. The company showcased its technology while serving one of the day’s fan favorites, a refreshing watermelon whiskey cocktail that quickly became a hit with players and guests alike.
Another standout vendor at the tournament was Oakland Tobacco Company, where handcrafted premium cigars are the specialty. Co-founders Jason and Chris spent more than 20 years serving their communities as fire captains before turning a lifelong friendship and shared passion into a thriving business.
Today, the duo has built Oakland Tobacco Company into a respected brand known for its expertly crafted cigars and welcoming atmosphere. Their presence at Gary Payton’s golf tournament highlighted the spirit of entrepreneurship and community that defines the annual event, giving guests the opportunity to experience the rich aroma and craftsmanship behind every cigar.
Gary Payton’s annual golf tournament has become much more than a celebrity gathering, it’s a celebration of community, networking, friendship, and giving back. Through his foundation and the support of former teammates, entertainers, business leaders, and community partners, Payton continues to build a legacy rooted in service, generosity, and creating opportunities for the next generation.
As NBA legends, celebrities, and local businesses united for a common cause, the weekend once again demonstrated that Payton’s greatest impact extends far beyond the basketball court. While his Hall of Fame career cemented his place in sports history, it’s his commitment to uplifting others that continues to define his lasting legacy.
