Lakers meet Tiger Woods during Genius Talks stop at Genesis Invitational
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The Los Angeles Lakers took their latest Genius Talks session off-site on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2026, visiting Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, for the PGA TOUR’s Genesis Invitational.
Arranged by general manager Rob Pelinka, the field trip gave the entire roster an opportunity to hear from tournament host Tiger Woods, widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers in history. The appearance continued Pelinka’s series of motivational conversations with prominent figures in sports and entertainment, a list that has previously included Denzel Washington, Kendrick Lamar and Will Smith.
Several Lakers are avid golfers, most notably LeBron James and Austin Reaves, making Woods’ talk one of the most anticipated events in the program. A team photo posted on social media showed nearly every player gathered around the 15-time major champion during the visit.
After the session, James told The Athletic he asked Woods which was more difficult: rising from “zero to No. 1” or remaining at the top once there. “Staying at one, staying the best player in the world,” James quoted Woods as saying, noting his own experience of restarting “from zero” when he entered the NBA straight out of high school.
Pelinka has maintained the Genius Talks initiative throughout his tenure, viewing the discussions as a way to strengthen locker-room chemistry and broaden the team’s perspective beyond basketball.
In a separate development, Hall of Famer Pat Riley voiced support for new Lakers head coach JJ Redick, saying the franchise made the right choice to lead the club in the coming seasons.
Source: Lakers Nation
