Orlando Magic Legends Pickleball Charity: Major League Pickleball (MLP) kicked off its season with an exciting and charitable event at the USTA National Campus, where former Orlando Magic (NBA) players showcased their pickleball skills for a good cause. The Orlando Squeeze invited NBA alumni to join in the fun and help raise funds for the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation.
Former NBA Players Try Their Hand at Pickleball
Terrance Ross, former Orlando Magic shooting guard, has become a pickleball enthusiast since his retirement. He started playing a few years ago with his wife and friends, and quickly grew to love the game.
“I started playing pickleball with my wife and a few friends, and I quickly got addicted. It was such a great way to get my competitive energy out.” – (ross)
However, for Brandon Bass and Bo Outlaw, this was their first experience on the pickleball court. While both former NBA stars have the athleticism to excel in sports, mastering the nuances of pickleball proved to be a challenge.
“The toughest part for me is gauging how hard to hit the ball, especially when all these people are watching you and there’s pressure applied in the heat of the moment.” – (bass)
Outlaw, on the other hand, was the most vocal participant on the court. His enthusiasm for the game grew as he watched the pros play.
“I’ve seen pro pickleball on TV, but seeing it in person is a whole other level. I don’t want to play against the pros. I’m not good enough yet because I keep hitting the balls too high. And the pros punish you for shots like that.” – (Outlaw)
Despite the challenges, Outlaw enjoyed the experience and expressed a desire to return to the court in the future.
“I think the problem with me is the kitchen line. My breaks don’t work like they used to, and stopping when I have momentum is tough. But I really enjoyed pickleball pro Alli Phillips’ coaching. She gave me some good pointers and made me feel like I knew what I was doing.” – (Outlaw)
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A Pro’s Perspective
Alli Phillips, a pickleball professional, acted as a coach for the event and observed the strengths and challenges of the former NBA players.
“I think the toughest part for them is learning to get low. Because they’re all so tall and the ball doesn’t bounce really high, getting low is hard. But they have great energy and they’re definitely impressive.” – (Phillips)
Rashard Lewis Wins with Federico Staksrud
Rashard Lewis, another Orlando Magic alum, took home the victory alongside Orlando Squeeze member Federico Staksrud. After their win, Lewis reflected on the fun and competitiveness of the event.
“I had a lot of fun, got a good workout and a sweat, but it was very competitive. I had a really good teammate who helped me out a lot out there.” – (Lewis)
Raising Funds for a Good Cause
The event wasn’t just about fun and games—it also had a charitable purpose. Thanks to the participants and sponsors, the event raised $10,600 for the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, supporting youth initiatives in the community.
This unique and fun event marked an exciting start to the 2025 MLP season, blending sports, charity, and community involvement.
News in Brief: Orlando Magic Legends Pickleball Charity
The Orlando Squeeze invited Orlando Magic alums to a pickleball charity event at the USTA National Campus, raising $10,600 for the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation. Terrance Ross, Brandon Bass, and Bo Outlaw participated, with Rashard Lewis claiming victory. The event showcased the fun and competitive spirit of MLP’s 2025 season.
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