Terrell Owens Hosts Pickleball Benefit

L-R: Emelda Douglas, Mathew Billitti, David Hall, Jim Crane, Terrell Owens, Katie Knapfel, Yvette Flore
(Photo: John Biondo)

(Press Release) Monday, February 9, 2026- (Stuart, Fla.) –Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties was a beneficiary of the first annual Jim Crane Celebrity Classic presented by James Hardie charity event that was recently held January 24-26, 2026, at the Floridian National Golf Club in Palm City, FL.
 
“The Classic,” a three-day, star-studded charity event, was hosted in conjunction between the Astros Foundation and the G-Unity Foundation, and one of the local charities that benefited was Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

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One of the highlights of the event was the Jim Crane Celebrity Golf Classic presented by James Hardie on Monday, Jan. 26. The event featured several prominent and former pro athletes, including more than 20 Hall of Famers, as well as several A-list stars from music and entertainment. Among those attending were Jack Nicklaus, Ken Griffey, Jr., 50 Cent, Albert Pujols, Barry Sanders, Ray Lewis, Jeff Bagwell, Andruw Jones, DaBaby, Flo Rida, Bun B, and Chase Rice.
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In addition to the Golf Classic, the Astros Foundation hosted multiple private charity events on-site at the Floridian. On Saturday, January 24th, Terrell Owens hosted an instructional pickleball event for 81 members of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties.
“Over the last few years, pickleball has become a passion for me, and I’m grateful to host Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties at the beautiful Floridian in an effort to emphasize growing the sport as a powerful tool for inclusivity and opportunity. My purpose is to introduce underserved kids to this great game I love and provide them with access to and resources for a fun, healthy, community-driven activity that builds confidence and connection. My goal is to break down barriers, ensuring that children from all backgrounds can participate and feel included in a sport that celebrates teamwork and resilience. It’s truly an honor to partner with Jim Crane and the Astros Foundation to host this impactful event, providing students from all backgrounds with mentorship and guidance to further their dreams and ambitions. Getcha’ Pickleball Ready!” said Terrell Owens.
 
“Today showed our kids that an entire community is cheering them on,” said Yvette Acevedo Flores, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “Meeting Jim Crane and spending time on the court with Terrell Owens and the athletes playing pickleball, talking, laughing, and being encouraged was mentorship in action. Our Littles left feeling seen, appreciated, and more confident for trying something new, knowing their dreams matter and they’re not pursuing them alone.”
 
The Astros Foundation, on behalf of Owner & Chairman, Jim Crane, and Nine-Time Major Champion, Gary Player, the original architect of Floridian’s golf course, introduced the first annual “The Harder You Work The Luckier You Get” Award presented by U.S. Coins and Jewelry, which was presented to 50 Cent during the G-Unity Kick Off Party.
 
Numerous check presentations were held throughout the event in support of local charitable organizations, including the Nicklaus Children’s Healthcare Foundation, Martin County North Little League, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and more.
 
This exciting new event would not be possible without the generous support of several outstanding sponsors and partners. That list includes: James Hardie Building Products, NU Energy, Petersen Family Foundation, Daikin Comfort, Google, Coca-Cola, Sire Spirits, U.S. Coins and Jewelry, Sky High for Kids, Five Point Infrastructure, Lowenberg Law Firm, Municipal, Shaftel Diamonds, Rush Resources, Tito’s Vodka, Oakley, Jordan/Nike, Peter Millar, Imperial, Topps, Trill Burgers, J-Bar-M BBQ, Camp Aspen, RTIC, Enterprise, Adam Ross Custom Clothiers, Iceman Nick, Aperture, The Global VIP, EZGO, Breitling, Melin, Bumpboxx, CPX Pickleball, KITCH Pickleball, IMRSV-XR, Bocock Brothers Premium Cigars, Margaritaville Lake Resort, Baha Mar, Courtyard Marriott, and more.
 
“The Astros Foundation is the official charity of the Houston Astros, focusing on youth sports, education, and community support initiatives,” said Emelda Douglas, Sr. Vice President and Executive Director Astros Foundation.
 
“We were excited to be in West Palm Beach, home of the Houston Astros’ state-of-the-art spring training facility, CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. We were proud to bring the Jim Crane Charity Classic and other ancillary charitable events to this region for three days with a portion of the proceeds benefiting deserving local charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties.”