Metta World Peace, small forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, said he changed his name last September to inspire and bring youth together.
He did just that when he came to Redondo Union High School to help commemorate the grand reopening of Sea Hawk Pavilion.
After running a little bit late from a long practice, the former math major at St. John’s University wished good luck to both the women’s and men’s teams, leaving the door open for a possible future visit.
“Maybe some time I’ll need a basketball court to work out,” he said to the roaring crowd, made up of students, community, and a who’s who of RBUSD officials.
Nikki Wesley, principal of RUHS, presided over the festivities, honoring those who made the day possible and thanking those in attendance.
“You are all a part of history being made today,” said Wesley. “We will create more memories, share more triumphs.”
The gym has a history of its own.
According to the High Tide Newspaper, the gym was originally dedicated on December 4, 1970, taking a year-and-a-half to complete and costing $1 million. Today, with money from the Measure C – a $145 million bond approved by Redondo Beach voters in 2008 – the gym was completed in just over a year, costing $8.2 million.
Balfour Beatty, a British-owned commercial construction company, replaced the bleachers and gym floor along with adding locking rooms, extra storage space and a new wrestling room that has a team room connected to it.
“Cornerstone to the project is the front lobby area,” said Athletic Director Andrew Saltsman, “It will hold a Sea Hawk Hall of Fame.”
Sean Rosenthal, one such athlete who is all but guaranteed a nod in the trophy case, was also on hand to help celebrate. The 2008 men’s beach volleyball Olympian and 1998 RUHS alum, said it was an honor to be a part of the day.
But neither Rosenthal nor World Peace’s presence could excite Anika Eusufzai, an eleven-year-old student from Adams Middle School.
Eusufzai was one of the few students who were able to secure an autograph from World Peace. “It was cool. I didn’t really say anything ‘cause I was shocked,” she said. “I’m a fan, but I like Kobe better.”
