The Pines hosts Gary Payton, Reminisces on Legendary Career
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NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton met with fans and discussed his career during an exclusive dinner at The Pines.
By Megan Garcia
The applause echoed throughout The Pines Modern Steakhouse as NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton was introduced to the crowd of fans who awaited his anticipated arrival. The stage was set for Payton to embrace his legendary status and speak to the trials and tribulations that made him a star.
As part of the Legends Dinner series at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, legendary sports icons join Club Serrano members for an intimate dinner at The Pines for a Q&A session, photo opportunity and to sign memorabilia. It’s an exclusive chance for guests and fans to interact with athletes and coaches who made a lasting impact in sports, while also enjoying a gourmet meal.
“I like those types of interactions because it’s great feedback and cool stories,” Payton said. “It was very pleasant today. I like it when people ask questions and want to know about me, not just on the basketball court but as a person.”
During a Thursday evening in June, Payton mingled with fans and reminisced about his career and the relationships he has built with other players, like LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neil, along the way. The questions prompted by guests at The Pines piqued Payton’s interest like which was the most memorable game of his career. Being in true form, Payton answered emphatically with the 2000 Olympics where Team USA was able to stave off Lithuania, putting them one win away from the gold medal.
The former Los Angeles Laker dedicated himself fully to basketball for 18 seasons, in which he earned an NBA championship and nine All-Star honors. The hard work on the court eventually led Payton into the NBA Hall of Fame.
Throughout his illustrious 17 season career, with more than a dozen at the Seattle Sonics, Payton played alongside the best players in the history of the sport. The likes of O’Neil, Allen Iverson, Patrick Ewing and Michael Jordan shaped Payton’s career as the rivalries and friendships invoked an additional level of competitiveness for the point guard from Northern California.
“I’m a kid from Oakland, California who never thought he’d be in the Hall of Fame. I never grew up saying, ‘I’m going to be in the Hall of Fame’,” Payton said. “That was something that was too amazing and remarkable for where I came from.”
Now, as a businessman and basketball legend, Payton spends his time as a coach in the Big3 League with rapper Ice Cube, which consists of international and former professional players. But when he’s not sitting courtside, Payton can be spotted at Yaamava’ interacting with guests at The 909 during watch parties or enjoying live performances at Yaamava’ Theater.
