Our region has long been home to some of the most gorgeous scenery, trendsetting businesses and generous people in the country.
But for many in Western Washington, celebrity selfies or cherished autographs require a trip to one of Seattle’s bustling stadiums, arenas or entertainment centers. On Saturday, June 17, Arsenal Promotions brings their fourth annual Celebrity Basketball Game closer to home: the Timberline High School gymnasium.
Mike Goff, Arsenal Promotions owner and the event’s long-time coordinator, has helped with the game since it began. Initially organized in conjunction with Lacey’s Dream Team Park, the event was in jeopardy of ending when the Park changed hands. Local businesses sought out Arsenal Promotions to keep the event alive and local.
This year’s participating celebs include former Seattle Seahawk players Ricardo Lockette, Joe Tafoya, Hillary Butler, Jordan Babineaux, Orlando Huff, and Deshon Foxx. In addition musicians Ethan Tucker and Rocky Sandoval will entertain and comedians Brian Moote and Monica Nevi will perform.
Unlike many star-studded celebrations, this event is a perfect chance to mingle with the celebs; no bouncers or velvet ropes here. Goff explains that “while there will be a meet and greet signing session for 45 minutes to an hour beforehand, the athletes will also be signing autographs as well as walking through the fans at halftime or during and after the game itself.”
The evening’s schedule includes a signing session with visiting celebrities starting at 11:30 a.m., a fast-paced and fun basketball game on the court of Timberline’s gym, and informal mingling during half-time and after the game. Want to ensure you get some face time with your favorite player? Purchase a “Fast Track Ticket” in addition to your admission ticket ($20 each and limited quantity). A new options this year, the Fast Track Ticket includes a spot in the front of the line, early entrance to the event and exclusive early access to the autograph session before general ticket holders.
Arsenal Promotions strives to keep all aspects of the event local and many charitable organizations in our area benefit from this pledge. This year, Goff partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of Thurston County’s Lacey location as well as the Timberline High School Cheerleading Booster Club and Inspired to Move Dance Academy. Attendees purchasing event tickets from one of these three organizations can shop happy, knowing $5 from each ticket will be donated back to the group.
Another portion of the proceeds will return to the Ricardo Lockette Foundation, helping children touched by homelessness and domestic violence.
In addition, all tickets purchased online through Brown Paper Tickets garner a $5 donation to local military families through Joint Base Lewis-McChord non-profits.
Goff admits that by including local athletes, media personalities, charities, businesses and event sites, “I’d like to see celeb basketball grow! Maybe even outgrow our current space and move to the Saint Martin’s Pavilion to bring in even more local and national celebrities.”
Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. The gym opens at 11:30 a.m. and is located at 6120 Mullen Road SE in Lacey.
Business sponsorships are still available and include advertising on social media, shout-outs at the game and the possibility of on-site booths or promotional materials. To inquire, call Goff directly at 360-358-2458.
“Come out, have family-friendly fun and meet tons of celebrities,” invites Goff. Is there a better way to jump-start summer? If your answer is, ‘Yes, but I also want to play!’ consider signing up for Arsenal’s Cassius Marsh Football Camp on Sunday, June 4 at Renton Stadium. Why settle for an autograph when you can learn from—and with—the best?
Forbes magazine reports that in 2016, “Americans gave $373 billion to charity, and 71% of that came from individuals. Between 2014 and 2015 63 million U.S. residents donated their time to charity as well.”
This year, do your part for local students and families before the shot-clock time runs out.
Purchase tickets online or from one of the partner organizations mentioned above.
