When TJ Kidd talks about basketball, he’s not just talking about buckets and buzzer-beaters. For him, the game is a platform — and on June 21, that platform returns in the form of the TJK Classic, now entering its third edition. Hosted in Santa Monica, the event is much more than just a run. It’s a charity-driven showcase with a mission: to empower underserved communities, uplift young voices, and use the game to change lives.
This year, Kidd has partnered with the 7’6” Foundation, founded by former NBA player Mamadou N’Diaye, whose mission centers on supporting underprivileged youth around the world through basketball and access to essential resources.
“Mamadou was on my interview the last time we spoke,” Kidd told ScoopB.com.
“If you know Mamadou, you love Mamadou. He’s just a one-of-one person, and being able to bring attention to all the work he does with the 7’6” Foundation is something that I don’t take lightly or for granted.”
The TJK Classic, like its namesake, has grown through purpose and passion. Each event is anchored in community — and each one has a cause. The first Classic supported HelpCureHD, the Huntington’s Disease-focused foundation co-founded by journalist Allie LaForce and her husband, MLB pitcher Joe Smith. The second edition benefitted The LadyLike Foundation, led by Leah Cher Pump, which provides scholarship opportunities and life support to young girls in Los Angeles.“It’s easy to support foundations like those,” Kidd explained.
“Having sisters gives me a different perspective, and with LadyLike, they’re doing amazing work. These choices come from the heart.”
As for how the idea to even start the TJK Classic came about? Kidd credits his most consistent source of support — his mother, Joumana Kidd.
“None of these events happen without my mom,” he said.
“She’s the most charitable, generous, kindest person you’ll ever meet. I give her all the credit in the world for believing in me and helping make this happen.”
While the Kidd name carries weight in basketball circles — his father, Jason Kidd, is a Hall of Famer and current NBA head coach — TJ Kidd is crafting his own lane. And he’s doing so with intention.“It’s definitely a challenge. But challenges are growth opportunities,” he said.
“I have two very different relationships with my parents. My mom has always been honest, level-headed, and supportive. With my dad, our relationship is complicated. That’s no secret anymore.”
Still, he carries no resentment — just focus and perspective.
“At the end of the day, I wish him nothing but the best,” Kidd added.
He may not follow the NBA closely these days, but he’s aware of what’s going on. When asked about his father’s Dallas Mavericks and the headline-grabbing trade involving Luka Dončić, TJ responded with a mix of humor and reflection.
“I heard Luka was in town,” he joked.
“I might’ve tuned in for that game. But I really think Luka wanted to be a Maverick for life. Loyalty doesn’t seem to be rewarded in today’s NBA, and that’s unfortunate.”
He’s also bullish on the potential of stars like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, especially in a crowded Western Conference.
“The West is so stacked,” he said.
“That Play-In has changed everything. Anybody can win it. It really is the Wild West.”
But for now, TJ Kidd is focused on one thing: making June 21 count.
“When you have the tools and the resources, you’ve got to utilize them,” he said.
“Basketball gave me a platform to do something positive. That’s what this is about.”
In a city known for stars, this Santa Monica showcase is shining for a different reason — community, culture, and charity.
The TJK Classic returns June 21.
