Mookie Betts hosted the Smash for Good charity pickleball tournament on June 19, 2026, at the Griffin Club, with proceeds benefiting the 5050 Foundation and underserved youth communities.
An event organizer noted that 22 celebrities and 22 pros participated in the 2026 edition, calling it larger than the previous year's tournament. The organizer also stated that Betts finished in second place at the prior year's event and is seeking a first-place finish this time around. Betts co-runs the foundation with Bri, a co-organizer whose work, according to those present, is central to the event's mission.
A speaker at the event praised the 5050 Foundation's wide-ranging approach, which encompasses physical activity, financial literacy, mental health support, college counseling, GPA improvement, and sports. "Mental health is a huge issue right now amongst youth, amongst Gen Z," the speaker said. A separate voice at the event described Betts's personal motivation, explaining that he grew up using sports to improve his circumstances and is now channeling that experience—along with his passion for pickleball, which he discovered a couple of years ago—into helping the next generation. An event organizer added that Betts has picked up the sport quickly: "You tell him something, he learns it right away. He's probably the best celeb here."
An unnamed Dodgers teammate attended to show support, stating that Betts has played a significant part in his career. "Anytime I can come and support him and his foundation, whatever it is, I'm there," the teammate said. During the event's auction, the auctioneer moved into the crowd rather than remaining on stage, ultimately selling an item for $25,000, according to the auctioneer's own announcement. "Mookie, the 5050 Foundation appreciates it," the auctioneer declared.
Betts said the day is primarily about giving everyone a good time while doing meaningful work for kids in underserved communities. He also acknowledged that he plans to limit his exertion on the court, stating, "I'm not going to get too tired. We got a game tomorrow, but I got to get out there and hit it around a little bit," a reference to the Dodgers' scheduled game on June 20, 2026.