Adidas Sportswear begins its Lightblaze era, dropping the first model from its new sneaker line. Born from sport, worn for style, the shoe is embedded in adidas Sportswear’s comfort-first DNA, providing a versatile footwear offering for those who want to move through the world in comfort and style on their feet.

 

Fronted by singer Tate McRae – who recently joined the three-stripe brand – and Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, the campaign showcases their signature aesthetics, which redefine the boundaries between athletic performance and fashion-forward style.

Built to support those with busy, active lifestyles, Lightblaze taps into the trending comfort meets style design code. Blending monochromatic color block detailing with lifestyle characteristics, complemented by bold three-stripe branding on the outer foot, the shoe is perfect for elevating a minimalist fit, or styling down for a no-fuss look. The upper features a mix of overlaying and underlaying materials – contrasting suede, leather and mesh – for added texture to accompany the sharp design edges.

Bringing a running aesthetic to all of life’s in-between moments, the new model is equipped with adidas’ leading performance technology, boasting a full-length Lightstrike midsole – inspired by adidas’ record-breaking Adizero running family. The resilient and responsive foam provides 360° lightweight cushioning for faster movement, making the sneaker ideal for day-long wear. Combined with a full-length rubber outsole, the shoe delivers maximum grip and durability for moving through life – whatever path it takes.

 

Speaking about the new shoe and her second campaign for the adidas family, Tate McRae says: “When pulling together my everyday look, my footwear choice is always so important. From tour rehearsals to meeting friends for dinner, I need a shoe that can take me from day to night and promise me ultimate comfort, which is why I am a huge fan of adidas Sportswear’s new Lightblaze model. Stylish, comfy, and perfect to mix and match with all my fits.”

Aimee Arana, Global Senior Vice President adidas Sportswear and Training, says: “adidas Sportswear translates innovation from the field of play into modern lifestyle products, and this is exactly how we approached the creation of Lightblaze. We know our consumers have fast-paced lives and want lightweight comfort in their footwear, so we brought technology from our record-breaking Adizero running shoes into the lifestyle world to provide responsive cushioning, all day every day.”

 

With fresh new colorways and updated silhouettes dropping in 2025, the Lightblaze family will transcend seasons to become the must-have sneaker for everyday movement.  The first Lightblaze model is available today in stores, on www.adidas.co.za/sportswear and via the adidas app.

The post ADIDAS SPORTSWEAR INTRODUCES NEW RUNNING-INSPIRED FOOTWEAR, LIGHTBLAZE. appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

This collaboration marks the return of a highly successful pre-pandemic initiative, where artists perform their top hits and their freshest music up close and personal with the audience, as well as spilling the beans on the newest and most exciting developments in their lives and careers. It’s the 5 Listening Sessions listeners love,but reimagined to deliver an even higher standard of technical excellence and creative engagement.

As part of this partnership, the 5 Listening Sessions will be hosted once a month at ASE’s premier, state-of-the-art live production facility, SABC Radio Park Studio V1A. The sessions will be technically supported by ASE students, offering them a unique, hands-on opportunity to apply and showcase the skills they have acquired through their curriculum. This initiative not only provides invaluable real-world experience for students but also elevates the production quality and immersive experience for 5FM audiences.

This renewed partnership breathes new life into the relationship between 5FM and ASE, with both brands committed to taking the initiative to even greater heights, leveraging cutting-edge technology and industry expertise to create high-impact content and stellar sessions that greatly benefit 5FM and its loyal listeners, as well as ASE and its student body.

“At Academy of Sound Engineering, we are deeply committed to providing our students with real-world industry experience that prepares them for successful careers,” said Nick Matzukis, Founder & MD (ASE). “This partnership with 5FM is the latest example of how education and industry can collaborate to create meaningful opportunities, equipping the next generation of music and audio professionals with the skills and confidence they need to excel.”

5FM and Good Hope FM Business Manager, Masi Mdingane, says: “This is an amazing opportunity with our partners at ASE to not only bring SA’s top hitmakers to our listeners, but also Ampli5 the brightest young stars who will be bringing mesmerising shows and productions to the airwaves and stages for many years to come.”

The 5 Listening Sessions powered by Academy of Sound Engineering promise to be a game-changer in bridging the gap between education and industry while delivering innovative, high-quality content to South Africa’s vibrant radio audience.

The post 5FM and Academy of Sound Engineering Announce Live Show & Skills Development Partnership appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

South Africa is a goldmine of talent, and every day, a new artist emerges to captivate audiences. One such rising star is neo-soul sensation Darlinoh, who is set to release her latest single, Emoyeni, this Friday.

 

With her soulful voice and undeniable artistry, Darlinoh is an artist to watch. While you wait for the drop, check out her performances on YouTube and get ready to experience something special.

The post Neo-Soul Artist Darlinoh Set to Drop New Single This Friday appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Vans is back for its second collaboration with multidisciplinary designer and creative visionary, Nicole McLaughlin, and this time they’re taking functional design to a new level with the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS.

Known for her playful upcycled creations and ability to transform everyday materials into multi-functional designs, Nicole brings her ingenuity to a collection that’s built for adventure, creativity, and just a little bit of mischief.

“It’s key to have elements of functionality, mixed with a sense of conceptual art and style,” says Nicole. “Creating pieces that can be multi-purpose but also fun has always been my goal. I was inspired by vintage hiking packs from the ‘70s and the aesthetic of outdoor gear from that era for the collection.”

The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS reinvents an iconic silhouette with a built-in rucksack pocket on the toe and adjustable nylon webbing. A 40% recycled canvas upper, treated with PFC-free DWR waterproofing, keeps things resilient, while a lugged tread outsole delivers multi-surface traction for whatever the day brings.

 

The collection extends beyond footwear with the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksack (a climbing chalk bag made from 40% recycled canvas) and the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksock, made from 80% organic cotton with a built-in cargo pocket for added function. Its utility meets creativity, all wrapped in Nicole’s signature DIY spirit.

The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS will be available in two colourways, Tanl and Grey while the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksack and Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Rucksock will be available in Oatmeal.

Playful, inventive, and packed with detail, the Vans x Nicole McLaughlin campaign brings the collection to life through miniature storytelling. Going off-grid, the Slip-On RS unpacks with tiny survival tools and sets up camp in a scaled-down outdoor world. The collection is also showcased inside a mini replica of Nicole’s own atelier, a nod to her unconventional creative process. Shot and styled by Nicole herself, the campaign flips the script on functional design to prove that utility and imagination go hand in hand.

 

“I love DIY culture and designs people can interact with and further customise themselves,” says Nicole. “I encourage people to make the pieces their own and I’m excited to see how they will be personalised!”

The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin collection will be available to shop on Vans.co.za and at select retailers beginning 27 February 2025.

The post Designed for the Unexpected: The Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Slip-On RS appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Ghanaian hip-hop legend M.anifest just surprise-dropped a bar-heavy freestyle, WORTH THE WAIT—and trust us, it lives up to the name. Packed with punchlines and quotables, this one will have you hitting replay for days.

But the real bombshell dropped 24 hours later. After keeping fans in suspense for two years, M.anifest is officially back with a brand-new project, NEW ROAD AND GUAVA TREES, set to drop on March 13.

 

This isn’t just any return—it’s a statement. Known for collaborating with some of South Africa’s finest (the late HHP, A-Reece, Kwesta, Stogie T, and MiCasa), M.anifest drops subtle hints in his fiery freestyle about what’s to come. “Didn’t have to compromise to get the Mass Appeal,” he spits—a clear nod to his upcoming debut under Nas’ iconic label, Mass Appeal.

Don’t sleep on this—watch and listen to WORTH THE WAIT now!

The post Ghanaian Hip-Hop legend M.anifest shocks the game with an explosive freestyle titled “WORTH THE WAIT” appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

The air buzzed with anticipation as ShabZi Madallion, known for his introspective artistry and sharp lyricism, hosted an exclusive listening session for his upcoming album, Mufasa’s Boy. More than just a preview, the gathering—filled with close confidantes, family, and industry heavyweights—became a powerful reflection of his artistic journey.

 

Five handpicked tracks offered a glimpse into the album’s depth, sparking excitement for the full release. Emotions ran high as ShabZi shared the stories behind his music, forging a personal connection with the audience. A standout moment was the presence of his father, Dr. Rampedi, a lifelong source of support, alongside his brothers. Songs like “Wang’kwa” and “Kgosi” resonated deeply, with the latter receiving an electrifying ovation, cementing its place as a fan favorite.

 

Guiding the evening was hip-hop commentator and Sobering Podcast co-host Kabelo Moremi (Fratpack), whose passion for the culture set the perfect tone for the event. The guest list read like a who’s who of South African media and entertainment, including 5FM’s Drive Team (Zanele Potelwa, Nick Archibald, Masego Tlhakanye, Jude Van Wyk, Yanga Mjoli), rapper Jimmy Wiz, media personality Siya Sangweni (Cliff Central), Boipelo Mooketsi (5FM), Tshwane FM crew, 1AfricaRadio’s Aviwe & Mbulelo, Ukhozi FM family, and Dr. Venetia from Eyeconic Optometrists.

 

Adding another layer to Mufasa’s Boy, the legendary Dr. John Kani lends his voice to the album trailer, while Zubz narrates the album as the voice of ShabZi’s father. Now available on all streaming platforms and at www.shabzi.co.za, Mufasa’s Boy invites listeners to step into ShabZi’s world, witness his growth, and celebrate this defining chapter of his career.

Here is the link to Mufasa’s Boy

The post MUFASA’S BOY LISTENING SESSION appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

The Margarita. A drink so iconic it has its own holiday. February 22 may be Margarita Day, but Espolòn knows better—this drink deserves an entire month. So let’s make it official: February is Margarita Month. A whole 28 days to shake, sip, and toast to one of the most legendary cocktails of all time.

 

This year, Espolòn is here to make sure you don’t settle for a basic Marg. Enter the Grand Margarita, a smoother, richer, and far more impressive take on the classic.  The origins of the Margarita are as legendary as the drink itself. No one can quite agree on who first mixed tequila, lime, and orange liqueur to create the timeless cocktail.

 

Some say it was developed in the 1930s by a bartender for a showgirl who only drank tequila. Others believe it was the accidental brainchild of a Tijuana socialite. No matter the tale, one fact remains: the Margarita is a global icon.

For a cocktail with this much history, only the right tequila will do. And no tequila does it quite like Espolòn. Crafted in the highlands of Jalisco, Espolòn is a tribute to Mexico’s rebellious spirit and artistic soul. Founded by Maestro Tequilero Cirilo Oropeza, Espolòn defies convention by combining time-honoured traditions with innovative techniques to create a tequila that’s bold, complex, and unapologetically smooth.

 

Dare to think beyond the basics this Margarita Month. Because if you’re going to celebrate, do it grand.  The Espolòn Grand Margarita is a sophisticated take on the classic that swaps triple sec for Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, bringing in rich cognac depth and bright bitter orange complexity. The result is a Margarita that’s bolder, smoother, and downright irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Espolòn Reposado
• 1 part Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge
• 1 part Fresh lime juice
• 5ml part Agave nectar
• Lime wheel garnish and salt

Method:

• Run a lime around the edge of a coupette glass, then dip it into fine salt.
• Combine all ingredients with ice and shake well.
• Double strain into the prepared glass.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or peel.

 

Margarita Month isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about raising a glass to bold choices, smooth tequila, and doing things differently. Grab a bottle of Espolòn Reposado, mix up a Grand Margarita, and toast to a drink that refuses to be ordinary.

The post Celebrate Unapologetic Originality This Margarita Month With Espolòn appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

But did you know Big Zuu has another passion? Travel and food. So much so that he’s launching a new show, Big Zuu’s 12 Dishes in 12 Hours, plays on BBC Lifestyle (DStv Channel 174) on Tuesday, 18 February, at 20:00.

Co-produced by Twofour and Zuu’s new label, Big Productions, this six-part series takes Zuu and celebrity guests—including SA’s own Oti Mabusi—on a culinary tour across Europe, discovering a city’s essence through 12 must-try dishes. From street food to fine dining, Zuu leads the way, unveiling hidden gems and local favorites.

Before you catch him on screen, check out our exclusive interview with Big Zuu.

You built a name for yourself in the music and entertainment sphere and TV. But how do these different passions influence each other for you?

Well, luckily, my music has allowed me to travel the world. Every time I pull up for a show, I always ask where I can find the best food. There’s a natural synergy between my music and my journey, and I’ve been fortunate to experience it firsthand.

How do you see food and hip hop connecting as part of youth and urban culture?

I think a big part of youth culture is enjoying music and representing what you love—whether it’s rap, R&B, dance music, Afrobeats, or Amapiano. Music is a reflection of who you are, and I feel the same about food. People are always debating where to find the best meal, whether it’s about dining out or cooking at home.

Food and music are such huge parts of my life. I’ve noticed that people love capturing their meals on their phones, sharing those moments of enjoyment with friends. For me, true enjoyment is sitting at a bar, savoring great food with good music playing in the background. The two have always been connected in my life, and I’m lucky to embrace that experience.

So, In South Africa, Is there any artists that you are checking out here?

I’m not gonna lie, I’m not too familiar with all the names, but I do know the Amapiano scene has gone absolutely crazy, especially in London. We’ve always been fans of Afrobeats, but over time, it started transitioning into this new Afro-house sound.

For me, I was never really into house music, but Afro-house is completely different. You’ll catch me at a party trying to learn the dances, singing along to lyrics I don’t even fully understand—just vibing and having fun. And that’s what I love to see. As an African, it’s beautiful to watch people from all backgrounds embrace different parts of our culture. African music has become so powerful over the years, and it’s amazing to witness its global impact.

Why do you think there’s such a strong connection between UK and SA hip hop culture as well, even with the Amapiano scene?

I think the UK has always been built on embracing different cultures—that’s what makes it what it is. English culture is great, but it’s the diversity, the immigrants, the refugees, and the people bringing their own flavor that truly shape this country.

We’re used to embracing new things, whether it’s music, fashion, film, or any other form of expression. And within the Black community here, when we see our peers across the world doing well, we celebrate them. That unity is important—it’s how we grow stronger, build each other up, and ultimately, take things to the next level. That’s the goal.

What’s next for Big Zuu, any exciting projects, and when can we expect to see you in South Africa?

You know what? I’ve always wanted to come back and explore the food scene—the food culture there is incredible. I’m a big meat lover, especially barbecue, and I know that’s a huge part of the culture. I’d love to visit soon! When’s the best time to come?

December, December, December.

Normally, in December, I head to Sierra Leone—we have our own little version of Detty December. It may be a smaller scale, but the vibes are just as real. But this time, when I’m in Sierra Leone, I think it’s time to make the trip down south and come see y’all!

That’s right. That’s right. I love that. What’s the first thing you’re gonna do?

Ah, Brother, you know, I’m trying to find instant grill, whatever the grill is. I’m trying to go straight to the grill and go to a party, man, I’m trying to party, enjoy my life!

The post Exclusive Interview: Big Zuu appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Behind every innovative artist or brand, there’s an origin story—an inspiration that fuels the next wave of creativity. This is the essence of KFC’s Streetwise brand, which builds on the legendary taste of KFC’s Original Recipe Chicken while delivering exceptional value to a new generation. It’s also the story of South African hip-hop heavyweights Khuli Chana, Blxckie, and 25K, who continue to shape the music scene with their distinctive sound and influence.

 

Now, these three rap powerhouses have teamed up with KFC Streetwise for the Original Feeds Original campaign, joined by a collective of Cultural Creators. Just as KFC’s iconic 11 herbs and spices have stood the test of time, these artists and creators have honed their craft, carving out unique identities that inspire themselves and others.

 

KFC Africa’s Chief Marketing Officer, Grant Macpherson, highlights how young people today are eager to share their unique voices. “Who better to fuel that hunger than the originals who came before them?” he says.

Through the Originals Anthem and the campaign’s activations, KFC Streetwise aims to inspire young South Africans striving to make their mark through creativity and individuality. “Not many brands could authentically execute this, but KFC Streetwise is already deeply connected with young people. That makes it the perfect heart of the Original Feeds Original story,” Macpherson adds.

 

As a pioneer of South African hip-hop, Khuli Chana is passionate about paving the way for emerging artists. “I started Maftown Heights in 2009 to help rappers from Mahikeng break into Joburg’s scene, at a time when our sound and language weren’t mainstream,” he says. “It opened doors, and even today, it continues to give new artists a platform. I love inspiring musicians to find their own original sound.”

 

For Blxckie, originality thrives in collaboration. “Every artist I’ve worked with has helped me grow while keeping me authentic,” he says. “Musicians lift each other up. We push one another to be better.”

25K, who was introduced to rap by artists like DJ Mujava and Ghetto Squad, forged his own lane by rapping in S’Pitori, the distinct Pretoria dialect. “I want to be remembered for that. I want to inspire kids,” he says. “When I’m gone, I want to leave something behind that makes it easier for another artist to emerge from Pretoria.”

 

The Original Feeds Original campaign also shines a spotlight on a diverse group of Cultural Creators featured in the TV commercial. These include:

• Sanele Qwabe – Founder of Kind Kid toys
• Nailed Ntswembu – The “Nail Pimp” redefining nail art
• Island Gals – A groundbreaking all-female skateboarding crew
• Ruberto Scholtz – Visionary fashion designer
• Rowan Sakarombe – Designer and visual director
• Botswana Metalheads – Pioneers of the underground metal scene in Botswana
• Ofentse Mphatsoe – Master of custom car design

The ad opens with Khuli crafting the Originals Anthem and concludes with him—an OG in the game—welcoming Blxckie and 25K to the stage, passing the mic in a symbolic handover of influence and legacy.

 

“It’s the story of my journey, and it’s also the story of KFC Streetwise,” says Khuli. “Passing the mic is like passing the torch—that’s how Original Feeds Original.”

Director Coleman describes the campaign’s 90-second video as an electrifying blend of storytelling, music, fashion, and visual artistry. “It captures the never-ending cycle of inspiration—each creator being motivated by those before them and, in turn, inspiring the next generation. The result? A visually stunning, engaging, and unexpected brand integration.”

 

But the campaign doesn’t just celebrate originality—it actively gives back. Every time someone streams the Originals Anthem, proceeds go to KFC Add Hope, a program dedicated to feeding malnourished children across South Africa.

“Among the kids supported by Add Hope are the next Khulis, Blxckies, and 25Ks,” says Macpherson. “So, by listening to the anthem, people are literally helping to nurture the future of South African creativity.”

Stream the song on the link below:

The post Original Feeds Original: Khuli Chana, Blxckie and 25K join KFC Streetwise to celebrate the power of influence. appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Ginger Trill is gearing up to release his first project under STAY LOW this March. Titled BECAUSE I SAID SO, the highly anticipated tape features ZuluMecca, Marcus Harvey, and LordKez—a lineup that promises nothing but top-tier artistry.

If you know Ginger, you know he never misses when it comes to raps. Now, backed by a powerhouse team like STAY LOW, expect nothing less than the very best from Ikageng’s finest.

 

The 9-track project is set to drop on March 9th—get ready to feast!

The post Ginger Trill to Drop First Project Under STAY LOW: BECAUSE I SAID SO appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Renowned Eswatini hip-hop artist Grixxly (pronounced Griz-lee) is kicking off the year with a powerful new single, Where I’m From, featuring esteemed South African lyricist Pdot O. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Grixxly’s career as he gears up for his highly anticipated sophomore project. 

 

Where I’m From is a deeply reflective track that delves into the artists’ roots and lived experiences in their respective neighborhoods. The production, layered with somber jazz-inspired piano keys and soulful saxophone melodies, sets the perfect tone for Grixxly and Pdot O’s vivid storytelling. Through raw and introspective verses, they bring to life the realities of growing up in Eswatini and South Africa—shedding light on both the struggles and the resilience within their communities.

 

This collaboration bridges two regions of Southern Africa, uniting two distinct voices with a shared narrative. More than just a song, Where I’m From is a testament to hip-hop’s power to transcend borders while honoring cultural heritage. Grixxly and Pdot O’s lyrical synergy ensures this track will be a standout moment in African hip-hop. Keep an eye out—this one is not to be missed!

The post Grixxly Set to Drop First Single of the Year, Where I’m From, Featuring Pdot O appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

In hip-hop, retirement is rarely permanent—it’s more of a break, especially when the music is in your blood. Zingah once publicly announced his retirement from rap, yet he never truly stepped away, continuing to record behind the scenes.

 

Now, he’s officially back with a new single leading up to his highly anticipated EP, HIMMY THE LAWD, set to drop later this month.

 

The 5-track EP features collaborations with 25K, Lowfeye, and Mochen, while production is handled by Kaizer Beatz, Feziekk, Lunatik, and Johnie Basz. With a lineup like this, expect nothing but quality.

Stay locked in—HIMMY THE LAWD is on the way!

The post Zingah Returns to Rap with HIMMY THE LAWD EP appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

After Chuck’s Global Stars beat Kenny’s Rising Stars in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, MrBeast selected a fan at random from the Chase Center crowd and invited him on-court to face off against Damian Lillard in a logo shot challenge with $100,000 on the line.

While Lillard needed to make three shots to win $100,000 for his chosen charity, Jaren only needed to hit one to win the money for himself.   With nine seconds on the clock, and after Lillard needed to make just one more shot to win the challenge, Jaren made his shot from the logo at the buzzer, sending the Chase Center crowd into uproar.

Jaren was interviewed afterwards for his reaction to the life-changing moment.

The NBA will also donate $50,000 to Lillard’s newly established scholarship fund, the Damian Lillard Scholars Program benefiting 9 East Bay High Schools., and $50,000 to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Oakland and San Francisco.

The post Fan Beats Damian Lillard to Win $100,000 in the MrBeast Logo Shot Challenge appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

In previous releases, he introduced us to different sides of himself—Mad Lion and Trap Dalli—but on Mufasa’s Baby, we meet Leshabe. Now, how do you differentiate these different personas? It’s all in the approach—listen closely to the vocals, bars, and execution. Leshabe is the vernacular ShabZi, exploring his Sepedi roots and his ancestral land through this moniker.

This 18-track album is stacked, featuring the legendary Zubz on two songs (Mabitje’s Friendly Advice and Mufasa’s Intro), Louis K on Weitin, and contributions from Mad Lion, Trap Dalli, and Leshabe himself.

Looking at the name Mufasa’s Boy, there’s a deeper meaning. In The Lion King, Simba is Mufasa’s son, raised with wisdom, love, and guidance, yet shaped by the challenges life throws at him. When you reflect on ShabZi’s journey—his relationship with his family, the lessons he’s shared through his music—you realize how fitting this title is. More than just a name, it represents his story, his growth, and the legacy he’s building.

Set to release on February 21st, 2025—his 34th birthday and marking his 25th project—Mufasa’s Boy is a tribute to his father, celebrating the wisdom passed down through generations and the cycles of life.

ShabZi is known for introspective storytelling and raw honesty in his music, but don’t get it twisted—he can go bar-for-bar with the best MCs on the continent. This album is worth the conversation, and when it drops, hip-hop heads need to tap in. This Friday, Mufasa’s Boy arrives—don’t sleep!

The post ShabZi Madallion Set to Drop Mufasa’s Boy This Friday appeared first on HYPE Magazine.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James sat out the NBA All-Star Game on Sunday night—the first time in his career—due to lingering discomfort in his left foot and ankle. If you’ve been keeping up with the league, you’d have noticed he also missed the Indiana Pacers matchup before the break. Despite being selected as a starter for a record 21st straight year in 2025, James had to sit this one out.

 

Meanwhile, South African stars made their mark at the NBA All-Star Weekend. 947 radio host and actress Thando Thabethe, along with SAFTA-winning actress Linda Mtoba, attended the event in San Francisco, California. They were joined by Nigerian actress Osas Ighodaro as they took over the Bay Area—the home of the Golden Gate Bridge and the seven-time NBA champion Golden State Warriors.

 

This year’s All-Star Weekend was packed with unforgettable moments, ones we’ll be reminiscing about for the next 10 or 20 years. One standout was Mac McClung making history by jumping over a car to secure his third consecutive NBA Slam Dunk Contest title. His insane athleticism even caught the attention of NBA stars Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who hinted at potentially joining the contest in 2026.

The NBA’s global showcase featured exciting events, including the Ruffles Celebrity Game and Castrol Rising Stars Game on Friday, the State Farm All-Star Saturday Night, featuring the Kia Skills Challenge, Starry 3-Point Contest, and AT&T Slam Dunk Contest, and of course, the 74th NBA All-Star Game on Sunday. A key highlight was the NBA Africa All-Star Luncheon, where the NBA, WNBA, and FIBA communities came together to celebrate the game’s growing impact on the continent.

 

Africa was well represented at this year’s All-Star event. 2024 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama (France/DR Congo) and three-time NBA All-Star Pascal Siakam (Cameroon) took center stage in the All-Star Game. Meanwhile, young African talents Bilal Coulibaly (France/Mali), Yves Missi (Cameroon), Toumani Camara (Belgium/Mali), and Alex Sarr (France/Senegal) competed in the Castrol Rising Stars Game, showcasing the continent’s growing influence in the league.

 

For South African basketball fans, there’s even more to look forward to! Elite basketball action returns to the country this June, as the NBA’s and FIBA’s Basketball Africa League (BAL) hosts its first-ever BAL Playoffs and Finals in South Africa at SunBet Arena in Pretoria.

The post LeBron James Misses First-Ever All-Star Game as South African Stars Shine at NBA All-Star Weekend appeared first on HYPE Magazine.