Pau Gasol to be recognized as a Community Champion at Angel City Sports gala

Angel City Sports, a premier adaptive sports organization in Southern California, will be honoring Los Angeles Lakers legend Pau Gasol during its fifth annual gala on April 13. Gasol will be recognized as the Community Impact Honoree for his dedication to championing individuals with physical disabilities, including Clayton Frech’s son, Ezra, who is a congenital amputee.

Frech, the founder and CEO of Angel City Sports, shared that Gasol has been a close friend to Ezra since he was 4 years old, visiting the family regularly and providing support both on and off the basketball court. Gasol’s involvement with Ezra and other athletes with physical disabilities has made a significant impact on their lives.

Angel City Sports was established in 2013 to address the need for adaptive sports organizations in Southern California. The organization launched the Angel City Games in 2015, the first of its kind in California for adaptive sports, and has since seen tremendous growth and success.

Ezra, inspired by Gasol’s support, competes in track and field events as a blade runner and jumper, with aspirations to win gold at the Paralympics in 2028 when they come to Los Angeles. Gasol’s influence has not only shaped Ezra’s athletic journey but has also brought attention to the importance of inclusivity and equity in sports for individuals with physical disabilities.

The Angel City Sports Annual Gala will take place at Playa Studios in Culver City, offering attendees the opportunity to support the organization and its mission to provide adaptive sports opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Tickets for the event are available for $350, with sponsorship options also available.