The BET Awards took place in LA over the weekend. In addition to the actual show, there’s also a weekend of activities that take place around the LA Live complex and Convention center for The BET Experience. The experience offers free performances, a sneaker convention, a dance competition, fitness classes, a beauty lounge, celebrity panels and meet-and-greets. Plus there were concerts from Rick Ross, OutKast, Maxwell and Mary J. Blige.
I started the weekend off with a chill vibe, attending Maxwell & Jill Scott at Staples Center. I had to stop and pick up my tickets at the JW Marriott and ran into Tristan Wilds aka Mack Wilds. You’ve seen him on shows like The Wire and 90210. But now he’s focusing on music.
I also ran into Lil Boosie… But in the moment, I was unsure cause I realized, I don’t really know what Boosie looks like.
On Saturday, I hit up the BET Experience. There was a celebrity basketball game that featured DeSean Jackson, Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, Snoop Dogg, Terrell Owens and others.
I decided to check out some of the booths and Genius Talks. I stopped by the Pantene booth and took a photo for their #ShineStrong campaign. I also got a cute t-shirt that says “Strong is Beautiful.”
Next I stopped by the Genius Talks and listened to film producer Will Packer – he’s responsible for “Think Like A Man Too” and “Stomp the Yard” – discuss his journey to Hollywood. Actor Boris Kodjoe was the moderator.
Next up Clippers All-Star Chris Paul and Snoop Dogg having a conversation on the synergy of sports and hip-hop. The conversation quickly turned to topics like the importance of family; CP3 mentioned how having a solid team was the key to his success. His brother is his manager, he’s a self-professed “mama’s boy” whose parents raised him in a strict household. No tatts or earrings on CP3. And, he said his wife keeps him grounded. Another major topic covered that’s a difficult adjustment for athletes and entertainers; learning when to let go of old friends as you grow.
The panel was moderated by ESPN’s Jemele Hill. Jemele asked Chris what one of his biggest moments as a professional has been, and he shared that watching two players who played on his AAU team get drafted was big. into the NBA. Reggie Bullock who ended up playing with the Clippers last season. And in the 2014 draft, Charlotte Hornets draft pick PJ Hariston.
I also saw a future rap star get crunk in front of Magic Johnson’s bronze statue outside of Staples Center and shoot an impromptu video.
The dream is real! The HUSTLE is sold separately. Make sure you’re following me on Instagram and Twitter so you can enjoy the experience with me! T: @StilettoJill IG: @StilettoJill
photos via @StilettoJill, @0neof0ne
