Hussle and Flow: Nipsey and the Culture of the NBA
Brooklyn, NY – There are moments when an event causes reflection and a hush across a community. On March 31th, 2019, Rapper Nipsey Hussle was shot and killed in his neighborhood in Los Angeles.
His death sent shockwaves throughout the country, with reactions coming strongly from players of the NBA and beyond. Born Ermias Asghedom, Nipsey Hussle was not only a Grammy nominated Rapper, Husband and Father, but Community Activist as well.
He parlayed the fortunes of his talent into creating businesses and job opportunities for people who live in his native Crenshaw. He funded improvements to local schools and in collaboration with Puma, he also renovated a basketball court in his neighborhood, showing his deep love of the game of basketball.
It’s a big loss. It’s a big loss for our community. It’s a big loss for his family. It’s a big loss for this world.
Dwayne Wade , Miami Heat
Nipsey would be seen courtside at plenty of Laker games, as his bond and relationship with numerous players grew. He performed at halftime of Lakers games as well. He also helped at the Russell Westbrook Foundation during Thanksgiving.
Tributes have continued to pour out since the tragedy happened, with the main goal of keeping the spirit of Hussle’s impact going.
With social media posts, tribute videos and messages to Asghedom on their sneakers, the NBA and its players paid respect to the 33 year old young man.
Speaking to reporters before one of his final games, Dwyane Wade spoke about what the loss of Nipsey meant to him;
“It’s unfortunate, as we continue to lose so many important young men in this world, especially the ones who are doing good and are trying to do good for others,” Wade said. “It’s a big loss. It’s a big loss for our community. It’s a big loss for his family. It’s a big loss for this world.
“So it’s a sad night. It’s a sad day for us, for everyone who loves his music, everyone who got a chance to get to know him and everyone who knows his family.”
As one of the recognizable voices of the “Bigger than basketball” era, Wade shares the feelings of many who embraced Nipsey Hussle for being a role model to his community.
Ermias “Nipsey Hussle” Asghedom was about empowering his people, and continuing to push past adversity, no matter the odds.