Entertainment
Gbemisola Abudu speaks on inspiration behind ‘NBA Meets Art’
Gbemisola Abudu, the vice president of NBA Africa, has spoken about the significance of the ‘NBA Meets Art’ initiative, saying it was designed to celebrate art through the lens of basketball.
The initiative was part of the lineup for Art X Lagos, which took place from October 31 to November 3, 2024, at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island.
“This year’s collaboration is particularly important because Art X provides a unique opportunity to connect with fans from all backgrounds. The NBA strives to be accessible to everyone—regardless of age or social class,” Abudu, who is also the country head for NBA Nigeria, told journalists in a recent interview.
“The Art X platform allows us to showcase our commitment to Nigerian culture, deepen cultural engagement, and demonstrate how sports can drive social change. Nigeria stands as a cultural leader in Africa, and this collaboration reflects that.”
Abudu elaborated on the evolution of ‘NBA Meets Art,’ noting, “In 2022, we launched the NBA Meets Culture platform, which focuses on five cultural pillars: art, fashion, film, music, and technology. Art was the first pillar we chose to integrate with the NBA brand”.
“This year marks our third edition, featuring a collaboration with a local Nigerian artist, which is very meaningful to us. NBA Meets Art celebrates art through basketball and engages the creative community.”
She emphasized that culture is integral to the NBA’s identity and that seamlessly integrating art into basketball is crucial.
“When collaborating with artists, we seek those who understand the ethos of the NBA and represent Nigeria’s diversity,” she said.
This year’s collaboration features Nigerian artist Williams Chechet’s piece ‘Breaking Barriers,’ which embodies the diverse visions inherent in basketball. Chechet’s mixed-media installation advocates for social change and celebrates cultural diversity.
“Working with him has been incredible. I admire how he interprets basketball, particularly his insights on teamwork,” she praised Chechet.
“His art captures the various elements that contribute to a team’s success, whether in achieving victory or driving social change. Williams, who is from Kaduna, has a genuine connection to basketball, having fallen in love with the game while playing in Zaria.”
On his part, Chechet expressed his enthusiasm for the project, acknowledging its impact.
“I was thrilled to be approached for this collaboration. The NBA is making significant strides, and I’m excited to contribute. ‘Breaking Barriers’ uses basketball’s dynamics—goal-setting, strategy, movement—as a powerful metaphor for the ongoing struggle for social change,” he said.
“It’s an artwork that emphasizes collaboration, mirroring my artistic process where community involvement is key.”
“Basketball is at the heart of the NBA, but we are more than just basketball. This is why we created the platform. In the U.S. and globally, the players’ journey to the locker room is often described as one of the most glamorous walks, akin to a runway. Fashion designers recognize the influence of players on trends, and many players are also avid art collectors.”
Abudu also spoke about the role of players in societal discourse, noting the importance of merging their influence with artistic expression.
“The theme this year, ‘Breaking Barriers,’ showcases basketball as a catalyst for social change. This collaboration is truly remarkable,” she said.
The head of NBA Nigeria also launched the MyNBAMomentNG campaign, inviting fans to share their favorite NBA moments on social media.
“This campaign invites fans to share their favorite NBA moments, creating a collage that embodies our collective experiences. The reaction at last night’s preview was heartening; it shows the power of shared memories,” she said.
Abudu also highlighted the success of the NBA Africa Triple Double Accelerator, a tech initiative supporting Nigerian start-ups.
“Earlier this year, we launched the NBA Africa Triple Double Accelerator, aimed at the sports and creative industries. From over 700 applications, we selected 10 finalists, including four Nigerians, who pitched in New York. The top two winners, Festival Coins and Salubata, are also Nigerian,” she said.
“The NBA cannot be viewed in isolation from art, fashion, or music. The influence of our players extends to various fields, making it essential for us to engage with culture in Nigeria. Our mission as the NBA is to inspire and connect people worldwide.”
Entertainment
Olajumoke Onibread recounts struggles as she returns as radio host
Olajumoke Orisaguna, the model better known as Olajumoke Onibread, has launched her talk show titled ‘Kilon Shele’.
The former bread seller turned model joined City FM as a radio presenter following a long hiatus from the spotlight.
Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Wednesday, Orisaguna expressed gratitude to TY Bello, the renowned photographer who played a pivotal role in her rise to fame in 2016.
The model expressed willingness to return to school, adding that she encountered challenges due to her lack of formal education.
She disclosed that her radio show will focus on her personal story, including her experiences with exploitative managers who took advantage of her lack of education.
The former model said she will also address the emotional struggles she faced during her time away from the public eye and her path to self-discovery and empowerment.
The show will also feature inspiring conversations with guests who have faced similar challenges.
“I want to use my platform to share my story, the good and the bad. I want to show that even in the darkest moments, there is hope for a better tomorrow,” she said.
“My show will be a beacon of inspiration for those who have faced similar struggles.”
Olajumoke revealed mistakes that damaged relationships with benefactors.
“I have suffered a lot,” she said. “But I thank Azuka and TY Bello for not giving up on me. My advice to those coming behind me is to work hard and never bite the finger that feeds them. I made many mistakes, but I’ve learned my lessons and want others to learn from my story.”
Entertainment
Comedian Funnybros welcomes baby girl with partner
Onwuka Ugochukwu Richard, the Nigerian skit maker popularly known as Funnybros, has welcomed a baby girl with his partner.
The comedian took to Instagram on Wednesday to share photos from his partner’s maternity shoot while expressing gratitude to God for the new addition to his family.
“It’s a bouncing baby girl 🤍👧🎉🎉. Thank you Lord 🙏💫🤩,” he wrote.
The announcement triggered an outpouring of congratulatory messages from fans and colleagues in the comment section.
Skit maker Iamdikeh commented, “Congrats bro❤️”, while Cute Abiola, another content creator wrote, “Congratulations”.
MC Edo Pikin, the comedian, added “Congratulations brov❤️”.
The skit maker’s bundle of joy comes shortly after Dayo Amusa, the actress, celebrated the birth of her first child, a baby boy, in the United States.
Entertainment
Davido’s ‘Na Money’ wins best costume award at Berlin Fashion Film Festival
The music video of ‘Na Money,’ a song by Afrobeats star Davido, has earned international recognition, securing the ‘Best Costume/Styling (Craft)’ award at the 12th Berlin Fashion Film Festival.
Directed by Dammy Twitch and produced by Blessing Uzzi, ‘Na Money’ is the third track off Davido’s album ‘Timeless’.
The project features Grammy Award-winning singer Angélique Kidjo and Nigerian highlife stars The Cavemen.
The visuals’ vibrant costumes, rich cultural elements, and stunning visuals impressed the judges.
Davido’s win highlights the growing global appreciation for African creative talent.
The Berlin Fashion Film Festival is part of the renowned Berlinale, a prominent European and global film industry event since 1951. The festival annually attracts industry stars, filmmakers, and enthusiasts to Berlin.
Watch the colourful visuals below:
-
Politics1 week ago
Okpebholo fires permanent secretaries, dissolves boards
-
Politics5 days ago
DSS operatives arrest man with bags of cash during Ondo guber
-
News5 days ago
Nnamdi Emeh: Suspect Facing Charges In Court, Process Independent Of Police Influence
-
News5 days ago
Alice Loksha, abducted UNICEF nurse, escapes captivity after 6 years
-
Celebrities5 days ago
Daddy Freeze, Akah Nnani clash over Emmanuel Iren
-
World1 week ago
French newspapers sue X for using content without paying
-
Business3 days ago
Lagos state government to commence upgrade of major junctions in Ikeja axis, seeks residents’ cooperation
-
World1 week ago
Trump appoints Elon Musk to lead department of government efficiency