What’s Jimmy Butler up to in Miami as he awaits his fate? Hint: A racket is involved
As Jimmy Butler awaits his fate on being traded, he’ll be staying busy.
The disgruntled Miami Heat player, who claimed he no longer wants to play in the 305, will be turning his focus to another sport shortly. That would be padel ball, a cross between tennis and racquetball, with a dash of squash.
Butler, fresh off a seven game suspension, is the honorary chairman of the Reserve Cup, kicking off at Miami Seaplane Base Jan. 23–25.
Though he’s pretty good with the racket, Butler won’t be hitting the court or probably even breaking a sweat. The 35-year-old star forward will preside over the festivities at the 50,000-square-foot entertainment venue, which opened in early 2023.
As per the invite, there will be live entertainment, activation stations as well as food and beverages from Pura Vida, Spicy Hospitality and Butler’s Big Face Coffee brand.
Oh, and padel, lots of padel.
Two elite teams will compete over three days, bringing together 16 of the world’s top-ranked players, including Arturo Coello from Spain, Agustin Tapia from Argentina and Lucas Bergamini, from Brazil.
Even if you don’t have any idea who these guys are, you’re likely in for a good time, and serious people watching. The celebrity team captains are from entirely different walks of life themselves — stand up comic and podcaster Andrew Schulz and local MLB Hall of Famer Derek Jeter.
“Padel has become an exciting sport to be part of,” said the former Miami Marlins CEO. “And this event continues to showcase the best of what the game has to offer.”
Joked Schulz: “While Jeter may have five World Series rings, I am going home with the Reserve Cup.”
Reserve Cup
When: Doors open daily: at 4:45 p.m., matches at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 23-Jan. 25
Where: 1000 MacArthur Cswy., Miami
Tickets: Daily and three-day passes, from $80 at www.universe.com/events/reserve-cup-miami-2025-tickets-JB0RY6.
Info: www.reservecup.com.
