As the NBA released the list of celebrities who will put up their show for NBA All-Star 2025, we noticed a name familiar to the NBA: 2 Chainz. Yes, Tauheed K. Epps, or you must know him as 2 Chainz, will see again performance in the NBA this weekend.

However, his connection with the NBA goes beyond what we think. He has been spotted earlier in NBA matches and has a major role in the league. So, come, let’s explore who he is and his connection to the NBA world.

Who Is Rapper 2 Chainz? Is he a Stephen Curry fan?

Born on September 12, 1977, in College Park, Georgia, 2 Chainz is no stranger to the music industry. He first became famous as part of the duo Playaz Circle alongside Earl “Dolla Boy” Conyers. Then came his 2007 hit “Duffle Bag Boy” (featuring Lil Wayne), which brought them mainstream attention. After Playaz Circle’s success, 2 Chainz embarked on a solo career that led to his debut album, Based on a T.R.U. Story, in 2012, which was a No. 1 hit on the Billboard 200. He continued to thrive with his unique style, earning his first Grammy in 2017 for his role in Chance the Rapper’s hit, “No Problem.” But today we are not here to discuss his music career, but rather his interest in basketball.

He is a huge basketball fan. Growing up, he played high school basketball, which even led him to attend Alabama State University on a basketball scholarship. His love for the game has run deep since childhood, which even continues today. Do you know he is a huge Stephen Curry fan? Yes, he is. And his admiration for the NBA is not new.

2 Chainz has repeatedly spoken about Curry’s unparalleled shooting skills, and his admiration is clear. During a conversation on the All The Smoke podcast back in 2022, he made his thoughts known: “Man, Steph literally looks like he’s throwing the ball in. And sometimes… it becomes a form like, when it’s by the rim, it’s like a goose neck. From here, it just looks like he is just launching that to just know where the rim is. Man, he literally can do this, I feel like, with one eye. I feel like that m———- can shoot with one eye man. He know where that m———- is.”

2 Chainz’s awe for the golden boy’s ability to make shots seem effortless is evident. His shooting range has redefined the NBA’s approach to offense, and the rapper is among those who find it mind-boggling. He believes that Curry’s skill level transcends that of most players in the league, making the impossible look casual.

This admiration isn’t just talk; it’s personal. In 2021, following a Golden State Warriors loss to the Atlanta Hawks, Curry gifted him his game-worn jersey. After the Warriors’ 117-111 defeat, the hooper met the rapper at State Farm Arena and signed the jersey with a custom note. The exchange was more than just a token of respect; it was a symbol of mutual admiration between two icons from different worlds.

2 Chainz’s love for the game has never wavered. Even though his basketball career never took off in the NBA, his passion for the sport lives on in his friendships and interactions with players. His bond with Curry is one of respect for what Steph has achieved in transforming the way basketball is played. While 2 Chainz might not have made it to the NBA as a player, he is connected to hoops in a major way.

Does rapper 2 Chainz have any stake in the Atlanta Hawks?

Rapper 2 Chainz has a notable connection with the NBA via the Atlanta Hawks. Now, this is not because of any Hooper; rather he joined the ownership team of the Hawks’ NBA G League affiliate, the College Park Skyhawks. Yes, he is a part of the team, which makes him part of the NBA too. Being part of the ownership group led by Tony Ressler and Grant Hill is a dream come true for him.

“I’m excited, and a dream come TRU to be a part of a sports team, especially one in my community,” he said. For him, this is not just an investment; it’s a chance to be able to give back to his community. From creating opportunities for the youth to inspiring others to believe in themselves. However, as we know, his roots in College Park run deep, and his involvement with the Skyhawks reflects his strong ties to the area.

In his younger days, his basketball team at North Clayton High School won a state championship in 1993. So now you know why he is so passionate about the game. His connection to the game is evident in his frequent attendance at Hawks games. But his connection is not just limited to games. He has performed during the Hawks’ in-game concert series twice, in 2015 and 2016. These performances were special as they brought awareness to his philanthropic work, with special merchandise selling out quickly. The rapper’s label, The Real University (T.R.U.), raised funds through these events to support his community efforts.

The College Park Skyhawks now have a passionate ambassador in 2 Chainz. As a prominent figure in the community, his presence as an owner is symbolic. He embodies the spirit of College Park and is dedicated to helping the next generation of stars. The Skyhawks will benefit from his basketball knowledge and his deep connection to the area.

With 2 Chainz’s involvement, the College Park Skyhawks are more than just a team. They represent opportunity, mentorship, and a brighter future for College Park’s youth. It’s a perfect match between a hometown hero and a team looking to make an impact in the community.