Ron Artest #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center on April 3, 2011 in Los Angeles, California.
The invitation to an exclusive party at Hollywood's famed Supperclub showed a relaxed, smiling young man welcoming patrons to a birthday celebration for Metta World Peace. At first glance, it appears to be a fundraiser for a deserving children's charity. But read further and it becomes clear that this is a party for the former Ron Artest — the first fabulous bash thrown by the Los Angeles Lakers forward who officially changed his name.
But why Metta World Peace? "Metta is going to be the first name and it means like friendship, love and kindness," Artest told sports journalist Stephen A. Smith. "World Peace is going to be the last name, so everybody can get ready to buy their World Peace jerseys." The first name is derived from a Buddhist term that embodies the traits he describes, and it represents what he hopes is a turnaround from his reputation for arguing and brawling.