WBF: That's A Wrap!

How curious are you to know how I wrapped up my experience of the World Basketball Festival? Let me just tell you this weekend was jam packed with great street ball, witty MCs, entertaining activities, surprising appearances from some of our favorite athletes, and comedic interviews.

Aside from watching great street ball, I was also able to mosey around and check out the other activities that were going on at Rucker. You could definitely NOT get bored! For the young men who were feeling fabulous, there was a barber shop where they could get the latest haircuts...I was even offered a 'mohawk haircut' but I wasn't feeling as daring you can say.

After snagging a few interviews at this hot spot, I made my way to a green screen where I was able to replicate my man Kevin Durant's signature move. While I'm not as coordinated as I use to be, technology and Nike made me look like a pro on my poster that was made after they filmed me.

If that's not enough, I spoke to some of the MCs, that were full of wit,energy and passion! They brought so much life to the game that I was impressed by their talent and the impact that they have made on the players and the community.

And to put the icing on the cake, the one and only Mr. Kobe Bryant made an appearance in the morning for a children's clinic that he was part of. It was great to see him after his back-to-back championship wins and of course interact with so many children that admire him.

My weekend in New York City was incredible! I did so much in such little time.
From creating my own signature move, to learning what makes Rucker a hot spot, I was able to not only enjoy the festival but see all the positive effects that the World Basketball Festival had on the community.Basketball, like any other sport, brings people together and that is a sight to be seen. It is evident the magic that one can experience at Rucker.

-Gevrina

WBF DAY 2: THE BATTLE OF THE BOROUGHS!

When it comes down to the "Battle of the Boroughs" who do you rep? Well, if you ask me I was repping all five boroughs.

For those of you who don't know what the Battle of the Boroughs is, it's pretty simple. It's cross-town high school basketball rivalry at its finest. While the second day of the World Basketball Festival began to unravel the crowds became more animated with each game that led to the championship.

Fans, MC's, and even coaches were cheering on their local teams. You can definitely say there was a lot of New York pride, as everyone at the event was very supportive of the raw talent and all out basketball performances. This is where legends are made.

I got to hang out with one of the coaches and asked him how a player gets street credibility on the courts and what he, as a coach, does to make his players tough. After an engaging conversation I made my way around the Festival where I ate some mouth watering Harlem soul food: mac n' cheese, fried chicken and candied yams. Once I was done enjoying my delicious food I continued to watch some edge of my seat bball.

Oops, and of course how could I forget to mention the highlight of my day!?! Our beloved Kobe made it out to Rucker to teach a basketball clinic. It was great to see him after his championship win this year. I was amazed! That was definitely the frosting on the cake!

So, make sure you keep it locked here, for more on the first ever World Basketball Festival!

-Gevrina

The Story Behind A Staple: The Air Force 1

Have you heard the history behind the Air Force 1? Are you an Air Force 1 aficionado? Well I didn't know the story of this legendary shoe until I pulled up to the Apollo theater for the screening of the documentary, "The Anatomy of an Urban Legend."

After so much fun earlier that day it was great to stand alongside the red carpet and interview stars such as Rudy Gay,Danny Granger,Douglas Ellin, Grand Master Caz, and Datwon Thomas just to name a few.

Once everyone made their way inside, I too got the opportunity to go in and watch the movie. I was instantly distracted by this beautiful display of white Air Force 1's hanging from the wall.

The film was incredible. To think that one shoe, one brand, has changed the way we all see culture is fascinating. There's a lot of great content and information that will leave you in awe. Without giving away too much information, make sure you watch this documentary as soon as it comes out!

Cheers,
Gevrina

WBF Day 1: Repping Harlem!

Rucker, the park where legends are made, was everything I thought it would be if not more. People of all ages filled the stands as they got ready to cheer on the different teams that made their showcase at this event.

I made my way through the park and participated in the various activities that Nike had set up. My favorite of course was the "signature move" spot, where I got to assimilate Kevin Durant's sig move and I got a poster with the progression of my move that I did on the big screen! :)

After checking out the games and park I was able to kick it with my new homie Terrence J, the host of BET’s 106 and Park. We chatted about Harlem and how the World Basketball Festival has been so inspiring to the youth and the community. Not to mention, that he taught me a Harlem "handshake."

There's a lot of rocking stuff at the WBF event so make sure you stay tuned on Facebook and on my Twitter @Nike_NFR for more updates on my weekend in the Big Apple.

-Gevrina

Get Ready!

I'm gonna throw it down pretty basic and let you know that I want YOU...yes YOU, to hop on and get ready for a H-O-T year. Not only am I going to turn up the volume this year but also, most importantly, I want YOU all to join me as I set off on a quest to find out what makes up a "Nike Woman."

I was a Division I athlete at UCLA where I graduated with an English major and a minor in Film and Television. My teammates and friends would describe me as a ball of fire OR a firecracker. With that said, I'm ready to blow things up and take it to the next level but I need a partner in crime and that's YOU.

So, if you're up for the challenge and a great time, let's hit some locker rooms, red carpets, bleachers, gyms and anywhere else we get access to. Make sure you keep it locked right here on my blog for regular updates from me.

Oh and one last thing...let's hit this year out of the park. Cheers!

-Gevrina