This Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers welcomed 100 students from After-School All-Stars, Los Angeles for a Thanksgiving Feast as the team opened Season of Giving, presented by East West Bank.
Alongside Lakers players, Laker Girls and staff from the Lakers and East West Bank, the students enjoyed a photo station, carnival and shopping experience, kicking off this year’s Season of Giving with joy, community and purple-and-gold spirit.
Upon exiting the bus, students were greeted by the Laker Girls and gifted Lakers swag, including backpacks, hats and socks. The students were also gifted an extra item of Lakers swag that they were encouraged to give to someone else, capturing the spirit of Season of Giving. They moved through seven carnival stations, playing games and winning prizes.
Los Angeles Lakers Associate Director of Community Relations Kara Rooney noted that for the Lakers, the Season of Giving reflects more than a single event; it reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to the community.
“It’s incredibly important for the Lakers to give back to the community and support those Angelenos who are out there every day living and supporting the Lakers,” Rooney said. “We want to support those who support us, but also there’s a great need in Los Angeles and we always want to be aware and supportive where we can be.”
The excitement only grew once the players joined in. Students snapped photos with Lakers forward LeBron James, traded high-fives and shot hoops with guard Austin Reaves and had the opportunity to watch guard Luka Dončić and forward/center Maxi Kleber face off in a carnival game. After making their way through the activities, students posed for custom Lakers sports card photos before sitting down to a Thanksgiving meal, served with the help of guard Gabe Vincent and two-way guards Nick Smith Jr. and Chris Mañon.
The Thanksgiving feast marked the first of three Season of Giving events the Lakers and East West Bank will host this holiday season.
East West Bank Chief Compliance Officer Connie Chang said the most meaningful part of this collaboration is witnessing the impact firsthand.
“Watching the kids light up when they arrive, seeing their excitement as they interact with the players. These are lasting memories they carry with them,” Chang said. “East West Bank has always believed in investing in our community, especially in our youth, because that foundation can have a long-term impact.”
This year’s Season of Giving will continue with a turkey giveaway for local families and will conclude with a holiday party for kids.
Los Angeles Lakers Tip Off 2025 Season of Giving with Thanksgiving Feast