Desert Smash 2026 Serves Up Stars and Charity in La Quinta

Desert Smash 2026 is officially underway at La Quinta Resort & Club, bringing together professional athletes, celebrities, and top pickleball talent — all in support of local charities across the Coachella Valley.

The long-running fundraiser, which began as a tennis event more than 20 years ago, has embraced pickleball in recent years — and the sport is now a major part of the action.

Among those spotted on the courts: former Los Angeles Dodger J. D. Martinez, former NFL wide receiver Jarvis Landry, and the world’s top-ranked pickleball player Ben Johns.

The Coachella Valley Scorpions, fresh off a national championship, hosted a high-end pickleball clinic for sponsors and participants. Co-owner Kim Jagd says the clinic was part of their Scorpion Pickleball Camps initiative, designed to grow the sport while supporting charitable efforts.

Eight professional players, including former world number one Piet Aldrich, guided nearly 50 sponsors through drills and match play — creating a seamless blend of tennis tradition and pickleball passion.

Adding to the star power, Matt James, known for his role on The Bachelor, joined the action on the court.

Desert Smash continues through the weekend, with additional celebrity appearances expected — and coverage will roll right into the upcoming BNP Paribas Open in the coming weeks.