Sports
Desert Smash 2026 Brings Celebrities and Pickleball Pros to La Quinta Resort to Benefit Local Charities
Desert Smash 2026 is officially underway at La Quinta Resort & Club, bringing celebrities, professional athletes, and pickleball enthusiasts together to raise money for charities across the Coachella Valley.
The long-running charity event, which has supported local causes for more than two decades, traditionally centered around tennis. In recent years, however, pickleball has joined the lineup, adding another layer of excitement to the popular fundraiser.
Helping lead the pickleball side of the event are the Coachella Valley Scorpions and Scorpion Pickleball Camps. Kim Jade, co-owner of the Scorpions, says the clinic offers participants a high-end training experience during the Desert Smash festivities.
The clinic features eight professional players working with sponsors and participants to sharpen their skills. Among them is Pete Aldridge, a former world No. 1 tennis player who now competes in pickleball. Aldridge says the transition from tennis to pickleball feels natural and highlights how the two sports can complement each other.
“Pickleball and tennis should coexist peacefully,” Jade said, noting that the growing sport has added a new dimension to the long-running charity event.
The event also drew celebrity attention, including former Bachelor star Matt James, who joined the clinic and picked up a paddle alongside the pros.
With top-level instruction, celebrity participation, and a strong community focus, Desert Smash continues to combine sports and philanthropy while raising funds for important local charities.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
March 3, 2026
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