On Thursday, February 26, the Atlanta Hawks will host a special Black History Month game at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, featuring an extraordinary halftime show starring Grammy-winning artist Killer Mike alongside DJ Greg Street. This event highlights the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Black community through dynamic performances and community engagements, with a focus on the Atlanta Hawks Black History legacy.
A Night Honoring Black Excellence Through Music and Storytelling
Presented with support from Georgia Natural Gas, the evening will celebrate the lasting influence and achievements of Black culture, combining a lively halftime performance with storytelling and local community activations. The Hawks will face off against the Washington Wizards at 7:30 p.m., donning their Nike NBA Peachtree City Edition uniforms to mark the occasion.
At the heart of the halftime show is Killer Mike, a four-time Grammy-winning Hip-Hop legend and Atlanta native, who will team up with Atlanta radio personality and DJ Greg Street to take fans on an immersive journey through the evolution of Atlanta Hip-Hop. Greg Street, known for hosting The Greg Street Show on Audacy’s V103 The People’s Station, will curate an exclusive DJ set paying homage to influential figures spanning from early artists like DJ Mojo and M.C. Shy-D to seminal acts such as the Dungeon Family, Jermaine Dupri, Ludacris, and T.I.
Killer Mike will accompany the music by sharing insights on the powerful legacy of Atlanta’s Hip-Hop pioneers and cultural architects, highlighting the city’s pivotal role in shaping the genre and celebrating Black artistry.
“I’m incredibly proud to join the Hawks for their Black History Month game and celebrate the profound legacy of our Hip-Hop community,” said Killer Mike.
“Atlanta is the heartbeat of Black excellence, and there’s no better place to honor our history and future than right here at center court with the fans.”
Community Engagement and Artistic Tributes During the Game
The evening’s events extend beyond the court with live art and community recognition. Atlanta-based muralist and contemporary artist Charity Hamidullah will perform a live painting on the arena concourse, using her signature blend of art and abstraction to explore themes of identity and human connection.
The Hawks will also pay tribute to Lonnie Johnson, the inventor of the Super Soaker, acknowledging his innovative contributions that span science, creativity, and cultural inspiration across generations.
In addition, acclaimed father-and-son authors Michael and Matthew Carson will distribute copies of their books, African American Women Who Began A Movement and African American Musicians That Changed Music Forever, further emphasizing the month’s celebration through literary works.
Georgia Natural Gas will feature the winning video from Morehouse College’s Cinema, Television, and Emerging Media Studies (CTEMS) film competition. This significant collaboration underscores the event’s dedication to elevating local artists and fostering future opportunities.
“Black History Month is a time to reflect on the impactful contributions and achievements that have shaped both our nation and our city,” explained Melissa Proctor, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena.
“Our Black History Month Game is a chance to celebrate the creativity, leadership, and influence of the Black community today and the next generation. The Hawks are committed to creating spaces that elevate diverse voices, spark opportunity, and honor Atlanta’s rich Black culture.”
“At Georgia Natural Gas, we’re proud to celebrate the rich cultural history of our community,” said Aimee Henderson, Director of Mass Markets for Georgia Natural Gas.
“Black culture plays an essential role in the story of Atlanta. That’s why we are so thrilled with this opportunity to elevate so many amazing current artists and support the institutions that are empowering the next generation.”
Engaging Fans with Exclusive Giveaways and Cultural Pride
To honor attendees, all fans present will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt designed by Charlie Palmer, a local Black creative, courtesy of Georgia Natural Gas. This gesture reinforces the commitment to uplifting local talent while fostering a sense of community pride.
The event not only celebrates the Atlanta Hawks Black History but also serves as a testament to Atlanta’s ongoing cultural vibrancy and its role as a beacon of Black excellence in music, art, and innovation.
As the Hawks face the Wizards and Killer Mike lights up center court alongside DJ Greg Street, this Black History Month game promises to be a momentous occasion, blending sports, art, and heritage in a powerful celebration of the city’s enduring impact on Black history and culture.
