The 2019 NBA All-Star Game has made its way back to Charlotte for the first time since 1991. In addition to the league, a number of its sponsors and other brands have taken over the city for a weekend of events. Along with on-the-court activities, the Qcitymetro team is bringing you some of the major arts, business and community events taking place throughout the weekend.
Friday, Feb. 15 — Day 2
NBA Cares Day of Service
The NBA and some of its sponsors identified ways throughout the weekend to give back to the Charlotte community. During Friday’s day of service, the league’s players, legends, staff, executives and volunteers visited Second Harvest Food Bank, United Way of Central Carolinas and Classroom Central.
Curry Family Community Celebration
Charlotte’s royal family, The Currys, made a splash with the unveiling of a revamped Carole Hoefener Center in partnership with Charlotte Housing Authority, Under Armour and Chase. The grand re-opening revealed a new gymnasium, education center, kitchen and more. The basketball family made it a community celebration featuring a Curry vs. Curry shooting competition, slam dunk contest and a youth basketball game.
Rookie USA Fashion Show
Kids had a chance to join in the fun during the Rookie USA Fashion Show. Kids of notable celebrities — like Sean “Diddy” Combs, Anthony Hamilton, Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook — walked the runway sporting the latest looks from brands like Levi’s, Nike, Jordan and Converse. Keeping with the kid-centered theme, we decided to include our own kid reporter. Check it out in our latest “A Day in the Life” feature.
Hall of Fame Press Conference
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced 13 finalists under consideration for the 2019 Hall of Fame. Among them, North Carolina A&T player turned NBA referee Hugh Evans and Charlotte native and former UNC player Bobby Jones. The Class of 2019 will be announced during the NCAA Men’s Final Four.
2019 Rising Stars Challenge
Two former Duke Blue Devils put on strong performances in the game. Jayson Tatum finished with 30 points while Marvin Bagley III poured in 14 more as Team USA beat Team World, 161-144. Los Angeles Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma took home MVP honors.
Jack Daniel’s Art, Beats & Lyrics
Crowds filled the Grady Cole Center for a chance to catch the popular traveling art and music exhibition. Unique pieces created by more than 30 artists were on display. After a Home Team victory during the All-Star Celebrity Game, rapper Rapsody hit the stage for a performance at AB+L. Definitely a place for the cool kids.
Kenny Smith All-Star Bash
Former UNC guard and NBA commentator Kenny Smith hosted his 18th annual all-star party at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Inside, guests participated in JBL’s activation for its video series, Sounds of the City. The latest episode features Kemba Walker making a music track with North Carolina music duo, rapper Rapsody and producer 9th Wonder. Several celebrities made appearances including former players Charles Barkley, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and rappers Rakim and N.O.R.E.
Follow our Instagram Stories for more scenes from the weekend’s events.
See Day 1 recap here.
Kallan Louis is a writer and consultant for qcitymetro.com. He does a lot, but never feels like he’s doing enough. His life can be described as a Venn Diagram: News media, Black culture and sports. He’s always on TV, but rarely seen.
