Celebrity Coverage
From MVP to VC: Giannis Antetokounmpo invests in the future of women’s basketball – Essence
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 13: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after time beyond regulation victory over the Detroit Pistons at Fiserv Forum on November 13, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this image, User consents to the terms of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo: John Fisher/Getty Images)
Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t just dominate on the court – he proves he can play off the court too.
The Milwaukee Bucks star and two-time MVP officially entered the enterprise capital arena with the launch of Build Your Legacy Ventures (BYL). This recent fund is about greater than just business – it’s about creating opportunities and making a difference, especially in spaces that are not at all times in the highlight. Antetokounmpo is kicking off her profession with one other dunk: investing in women’s basketball.
One of BYL Ventures’ inaugural investments is changing the rules of the game: Matchlessan expert women’s 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. Designed to elevate women’s basketball through a faster, more dynamic format, the league aligns with Antetokounmpo’s vision to rewrite the playbook in sports and entertainment.
“This fund is not just about capital; it’s about building partnerships and opening networks to accelerate companies’ growth trajectory.” Antetokounmpo said in a release. “I want to help other entrepreneurs, especially those who have faced barriers, grow and succeed.” With BYL Ventures, it doesn’t just offer financial support – it opens its network and provides mentorship to founders, especially those from underrepresented communities.
Women’s sports have long faced an uphill battle when it comes to visibility and investment. By supporting Unrivaled, Antetokounmpo is sending a transparent message: it is time to level the playing field. The league goals to redefine the perception of women’s basketball by specializing in innovation, excitement and opportunity for athletes.
This is not Antetokounmpo’s first foray into the business world. He previously invested in the Milwaukee Brewers, Nashville SC, and even began his own film production company, Improbable Media. But BYL Ventures represents something larger – a possibility to use its platform to encourage the next generation of changemakers, on and off the field.
For Black women who consistently drive culture and innovation in every space, seeing someone like Antetokounmpo amplify women’s sports is critical. His investment in Unrivaled just isn’t nearly financial support; is a commitment to make women’s basketball more visible, more respected and more impactful.
In addition to investing in Unrivaled, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Build Your Legacy Ventures also made a seed investment in Candy playhouseonline store known for its big selection of nostalgic and trendy sweets. This unexpected move highlights Giannis’ eye for diverse, consumer-centric opportunities that bring joy to on a regular basis moments.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has at all times been interested in greater than just basketball. Whether it’s leading the Bucks to a championship or constructing a business empire, his journey is a testament to what can occur when talent meets purpose. BYL Ventures and its first investment in women’s basketball show us that Antetokounmpo is not just constructing a legacy — he’s ensuring others, especially women, can construct theirs too.
Celebrity Coverage
ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence
With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is predicted to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Nineteen Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.
Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.
From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.
In case you missed it, take a have a look at 17 of the perfect celebrity beauty moments from the week below.
Celebrity Coverage
Black artists shine with 2024 Christmas albums – Essence
This holiday season, a few of the most talented Black music artists are reimagining the sounds of Christmas. From the soulful sounds of gospel legends to the contemporary kind of rising stars, these albums offer something for everybody who wants so as to add splendor to their celebrations. Whether it’s fresh takes on timeless classics, moving original songs, or reissues of beloved favorites, these projects bring joy, warmth and a way of community to everyone.
Jennifer Hudson makes her holiday debut with a track that mixes powerful vocals and heartfelt melodies. CeCe Winans brings a spiritual touch and Coco Jones adds her unique talent. Celebrating her thirtieth anniversary, Mariah Carey returns to the zeitgeist, and the reissue of Boyz II Men offers the right, cozy soundtrack.
As you decorate the halls and meet your family members, let these albums fill your space with music that uplifts, inspires and sets the right holiday mood. Here’s a more in-depth have a look at Black artists bringing joy to the world with their Christmas 2024 releases.
Celebrity Coverage
Let Anok Yai’s spiky bun inspire your holiday hair look – the essence
Images by Dave Benett/Getty
Earlier this week, Model of the Year nominee Anok Yai appeared at the Fashion Awards gala at London’s Royal Albert Hall. And regardless that the night ended there controversial joke for this yr’s award, the look of her hair stood out, as did her skilled achievements.
Paired with an archival John Galliano gown from 1994, her hairstyle was as avant-garde as the supermodels of the day – and was the most groundbreaking look of the night. On the foundation, a pixie cut with micro-mushrooms framed her sculpted features, and the sides stopped just at the tip of her eyebrows.
However, the summit took an unexpected turn. Almost like a headdress, straight, long strands gathered at the top of the head, overlapping right into a bow. The look was romantic and evoked the essence of Mugler’s Alien Hypersense, of which it’s the face. “I carry a bottle in every purse, it’s an addiction” Yai said in front of the red carpet.
The iconic outfit was repeated by Rihanna, who two days later arrived in an identical style at the thirty eighth annual Footwear Awards Gala in New York. With slight moderation – longer, blunt bangs and full updo – hairdresser Nafia Biała used an identical technique. Could this be the hottest hair trend of the season? These two icons actually suggest that.
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