In a recently unveiled video by the NBA on TNT, rap icons like Lil Wayne and basketball legends such as LeBron James come together to explore the profound connection between hip-hop and the NBA. This documentary commemorates the 50th anniversary of hip-hop and highlights the significant impact of both cultural powerhouses on the world of entertainment and sports.
NBA x Hip-Hop
In a new video released by the NBA on TNT, Lil Wayne and legendary basketball players such as LeBron James, delve into the deep connection between hip-hop and the NBA.
This short documentary celebrates the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, highlighting the profound impact both realms have had on popular culture and showcasing the power of this symbiotic relationship.
The NBA on TNT released a short documentary on Oct. 24, featuring some of the biggest names in hip-hop and the NBA. Rap legend Kurtis Blow’s 1984 hit song “Basketball,” opened the video, and he discussed how the sport bridged the gap between hip-hop and the NBA.
Hip-Hop Loves Basketball
The video featured the Louisiana rap legend, crediting NBA icon Michael Jordan for sparking his love for basketball during his childhood. DJ Jazzy Jeff said:
“Jordan’s play was the ‘soundtrack’ of hip-hop,” while Migos rapper Quavo said Jordan, “changed the game tremendously due to his shoes,” which would later be the Jordan brand.
Spike Lee, director, and NBA enthusiast, commented on Jordan sneakers’ explosion and said, “The s*it blew up.”
The documentary also sheds light on the fashion influence of former NBA superstar Allen Iverson, whose style resonated with the fashion choices of rappers in the 1990s and early 2000s. Iverson’s fashion choices eventually led the NBA to enforce a dress code for players entering arenas.
Hip-Hop Artists & Basketball Players
LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Trae Young also appeared in the video, discussing the thrill and honor of hearing their names dropped in rap lyrics. Atlanta rapper T.I. added humor to the conversation, by saying:
“Most hip-hop artists want to be basketball players; most basketball players want to be hip-hop artists,” T.I. said with a laugh.
Notable figures from hip-hop and the NBA, including LL Cool J, Grandmaster Flash, Jadakiss, Carmelo Anthony, Shaquille O’Neal, Draymond Green, Anthony Davis, and many more, make appearances in the video.
In a related story, the recent release of the highly anticipated soundtrack for NBA2K24 further exemplified the connection between hip-hop and the NBA. The soundtrack featured a range of rappers, including Lil Wayne, J.Cole, Lil Uzi Vert, Kodak Black, Quavo & Takeoff, Larry June, and more.
Tension Between NBA & Ice Cube’s BIG3?
In another development, West Coast rap legend Ice Cube has accused the NBA of “blackballing” his BIG3 league and claimed that NBA owners are hindering its success. These allegations are currently being investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Steph Curry Set To Produce Mac Dre Documentary
Moving to basketball star Steph Curry, the NBA star will be venturing into rap production. Curry is set to produce a documentary on the late Bay Area rap legend, Mac Dre, in collaboration with the late artist’s mother.