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This year’s BET Experience wasn’t just big, it was historic. As BET proudly celebrated 45 years of trailblazing culture and community, the weekend became a full-blown tribute to Black excellence in entertainment, music, sports, and fashion. And with 106 & Park turning 25, the energy was more than enough to match the legacy — 25 years of iconic music, fashion, and star power was felt in every corner of L.A. Live.

Presented by Shea Moisture, the event delivered unforgettable vibes, with the celebrity basketball game taking center court as one of the weekend’s most anticipated events.


Star-Studded Court Action

The celebrity game brought out big names like Bow Wow, DC Young Fly, Anthony Hamilton Jr., Cordae ,DeVaughn Franklin, and more — all hooping it up and keeping the crowd on its feet. Coaching the squads were none other than Matt Barnes, Ty Young, Flau’jae, and The Ball Brothers; LiAngelo and Lonzo Ball hung around to bring the perfect mix of strategy, swagger, and sideline spice.


Bow Wow

(L-R) LiAngelo Ball, Alan Palesano, Anthony Henderson, and Lonzo Ball

(1st photo) DC Young Fly, (2nd Photo) Matt Barnes & Flau’jae Johnson ; coaches for the BET Experience Celebrity Basketball Game, (3rd photo) Matt Barnes & DC Young Fly)

But the competition didn’t end there! The 3-point shootout was a thrilling showdown of precision and nerves, and Dawn “Raven” Evans stole the spotlight, sinking shot after shot with ice in her veins. Her clutch performance earned her the crown — and serious bragging rights — as the contest’s undisputed sharpshooter.

When it came to the action on the court, one name stood above the rest. Alan Palesano dominated with a blend of skill, hustle, and heart, ultimately claiming the title of BETX MVP.

Their precision and composure under pressure had the crowd roaring, making it one of the most talked-about highlights of the weekend.

(L-R) Dawn Raven Evans and Alan Palesano (Winners of 3 Point Contest & BETX Experience MVP)

 

In a surprise appearance that energized the event, Los Angeles Lakers rising talents Trey Jemison III and Christian Koloko made a strong impression as they stepped in to support the culture, engage with fans, and rally the players. Their presence brought a heightened level of excitement and a distinct NBA-caliber energy, underscoring their commitment both to the game and the broader basketball community.

    (L-R) Los Angeles Lakers Christian Koloko & Trey Jemison III) Photo by Kassha Brown

 Halftime Heat + Viral Moments

 Halftime didn’t miss either — with a performance by the viral sensation known for the catchy hit “She Was a Fairy.” The crowd sang along word-for-word, making it one of the most talked about moments of the day.

Legendary MC Lyte held it down as the game announcer, keeping the energy high with her smooth flow and iconic voice guiding fans through every play, foul, and laugh-out-loud sideline moment.

 

Vibes Off the Court

Around the arena, the BET Experience doubled as a pop culture paradise. Fans enjoyed free giveaways from top brands like Vaseline, Shea Moisture, and Dove at interactive booths that kept the crowds glowing and refreshed.

 Main Stage Madness

And just when you thought it couldn’t get hotter — the main stage lit up with fire performances from GloRilla, Amerie, Crime Mob, Mario, and a host of other heavy-hitters. The crowd could barely withstand the heat — both literal and lyrical — as hit after hit turned the arena into a nonstop block party.

From court to concert, booths to beats, the 2025 BET Experience proved that 45 years in, BET is only getting stronger. Here’s to the culture, the icons, and the unforgettable moments. If you weren’t there trust, you felt it online. And if you were there? You already know

Photo Credit📸:Leon Bennett