by Rafael Pena
January 10, 2024
Killer Mike will perform a special halftime tribute celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Celebrate Martin Luther King.
The Atlanta Hawks have announced their plans for the annual MLK Game presented by Chase on Jan. 15 at the city's State Farm Arena. Hip-hop icon and Atlanta native Killer Mike, nominated for three Grammy Awards, will perform a special tribute during halftime. We celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fans in attendance will receive tote bags with the Hawks logo from Chase, according to Sports Illustrated.
Hawks players and staff will wear special MLK shooting jerseys with a quote from Dr. James during warmups. King carry. The Hawks will face San Antonio in their Fly City Edition jerseys at 3:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at hawks.com/tickets.
Killer Mike expressed his excitement about his upcoming performance, saying, “As an Atlanta native and fellow Morehouse resident who is also a Hawks fan, performing for Atlanta during the MLK celebration is the homecoming dream of my life.”
Killer Mike is known for his roles as a musician, advocate, and entrepreneur, and his influence extends beyond his music career. He owns a chain of hair salons, including one at State Farm Arena called SWAG Shop.
Melissa Proctor, chief marketing officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena, said, “We are thrilled to have world-renowned Atlanta's Killer Mike appear as part of this special annual MLK game presented by Chase.”
Before the game, a Chase-sponsored panel titled “A Transparent Conversation About Homeownership in Atlanta” will discuss rising homeownership rates among Black Americans in Atlanta. Panelists include Terri M. Lee (COO, Atlanta Housing), Corey Mason (Head of Chase Home Lending for Atlanta), and Latresa McLawhorn Ryan (CEO, Blackbird Strategy Group).
In recognition of the commitment of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. becomes Olympian Dr. Tommie Smith honored during the game. Dr. Smith is known for his iconic gesture at the 1968 Olympics, when he raised his fist during the national anthem to express his commitment to civil rights.
The Hawks and Chase will also honor local Black and woman-owned marketing firm Communiqué USA. Additionally, the Clark Atlanta University Philharmonic Society will perform at the player introductions and national anthem.
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