South Carolina State University, HBCU, basketball games, shooting

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

February 14, 2026

Fatal Shooting At South Carolina State Halts HBCU Basketball Games

Gunfire erupted at the Hugine Suites complex, a student residential area, and the campus was placed on lockdown.

By Robert Hill

Shots were fired on South Carolina State University’s campus, putting a hold on campus activity from Feb. 13 through Feb. 16.

On the night of Feb.12, two men were shot and killed, and an individual was injured on the South Carolina State campus. The tragedy halted campus events, including the MEAC basketball doubleheader against Morgan State University scheduled for Feb. 14.

At approximately 9:15 p.m., gunfire erupted at the Hugine Suites complex, a student residential area. The campus was placed on lockdown, and the university instructed students to shelter in place as the incident unfolded.

As reported by HBCU Gameday, “The University issued an immediate alert instructing students to take shelter in place while the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and local authorities secured the perimeter.”

On Feb.13, authorities identified the deceased as 19-year-old Henry L. Crittington and 18-year-old Terrell Thomas. Neither man was an active student at South Carolina State University. The current student who was injured is receiving medical care at a hospital.

In response to the tragedy, the university canceled classes and activities to allow the campus community time to mourn and grieve. President Alexander Conyers stated that students’ safety remains the university’s top priority. The university is also offering counseling services to students and staff who need them.

This incident marks the second fatal shooting on campus this school year. In October 2025, another shooting occurred during Homecoming festivities, where gunfire near the same residential area claimed the life of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler and left another individual injured.

The women’s basketball game against Morgan State has been rescheduled for Feb. 16 at 2:00 p.m. EST. The men’s team will play Coppin State at 4:30 p.m. EST that same day, creating a new doubleheader. The men’s game against Morgan State has been moved to Feb. 25. A specific tip-off time will be announced at a later date.

Dr. J, soul power, Julius Erving, docuseries

by Mary Spiller

February 14, 2026

Julius Erving Helps Bring ABA Legacy To Prime Video In ‘Soul Power’ Docuseries

The four-part documentary revisits the innovation, star power and cultural impact of the American Basketball Association ahead of its 50th merger anniversary.

Julius Erving’s NBA résumé already includes championships in two leagues, multiple MVP awards and a permanent place among the sport’s all-time greats. Now, the Hall of Famer known worldwide as Dr. J is adding a new title: executive producer. Erving is one of the driving forces behind “Soul Power: The Legend of the American Basketball Association,” a four-part documentary series premiering Feb. 12 on Prime Video.

The project, narrated by rapper Common and co-produced by former NBA coach George Karl, revisits the rise and influence of the ABA, the upstart league that merged with the NBA 50 years ago.

The trailer, released this week, features appearances from Erving as well as George Gervin, Charles Barkley, Larry Brown, Rick Barry, Spencer Haywood, Walt Frazier, Chris Mullin and broadcaster Bob Costas. The series explores the ABA’s star players, its rivalry with the NBA and the social and business forces that shaped its legacy.

“Dr. J gave the league credibility,” Costas says in the preview. Gervin adds, “We’re getting ready to show you all, man, what y’all was missing.”

While Erving’s high-flying style remains central to the story, director Kenan Kamwana Holley said the film aims to expand the narrative beyond highlight reels. Holley, who traveled across the country filming at iconic courts such as Rucker Park in Harlem and the Los Angeles site featured in “White Men Can’t Jump,” said younger players consistently traced the ABA’s meaning back to one figure.

“We had young N.B.A. players like Tyrese Haliburton and RJ Barrett send us videos talking about what the A.B.A. means to them, and they all started with Dr. J,” Holley said. “When we asked players about the A.B.A., they all said, ‘Dr. J, Dr. J, Dr. J.’”

Founded in 1967, the ABA introduced innovations that now define modern basketball, including the three-point line and the slam-dunk contest. Erving’s soaring free-throw-line dunk in the league’s final All-Star Game remains one of the sport’s most enduring images. The league also featured a red, white and blue ball and a faster, more open style of play that foreshadowed today’s space-and-pace era.

Holley said earlier portrayals often reduced the ABA to quirky anecdotes about financial instability and colorful personalities. But as he researched, he discovered a competitive league whose teams frequently defeated NBA squads in exhibition play.

“That was pretty incredible,” Holley said. “I’d never heard that before.”

The documentary also examines racial dynamics within professional basketball. At a time when the NBA operated under an informal quota system limiting Black players, the ABA offered broader opportunities and embraced a freer brand of expression.

Erving, who began his professional career with the Virginia Squires, said the league’s players believed they matched up with anyone.

“We knew in our hearts we were as good as the N.B.A. teams,” he said. “Also the A.B.A. lives in the N.B.A. today, no question about it. There’s the 3-point shot … But there’s also the spirit of the A.B.A. game, spreading the court, running the ball, the faster pace of play.”

Reflecting on his early career, Erving recalled signing with the ABA after being offered $500,000 over four years — a life-changing figure for a young player whose parents earned far less combined. “It was a no-brainer,” he said. “What’s a brother to do?”

Though he later won an NBA championship in Philadelphia, Erving remains deeply connected to the league that launched his career. “I’m all A.B.A.,” he said. “Anything associated with the league, I’m there for it.”

With the 50th anniversary of the ABA-NBA merger approaching in 2026, “Soul Power” aims to ensure the league’s imprint on the game — and on basketball culture — is no longer overlooked.

by Mary Spiller

February 14, 2026

Stephen A. Smith Says He Has ‘No Desire’ To Run For President — But Won’t Rule It Out

The ESPN commentator said he would consider a Democratic bid to challenge career politicians.

Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith says he has no interest in becoming a politician, but he is leaving open the possibility of entering the 2028 presidential race.

In an interview with CBS News correspondent Robert Costa on CBS Sunday Morning, as reported by Deadline, the ESPN host addressed growing speculation about his political ambitions. “So when somebody talks about me being a president or whatever, I have no desire to be a politician, zero. … I have no desire to run for office,” Smith said.

Despite that firm denial, Smith acknowledged he has not entirely dismissed the idea of a campaign. He told Costa he is “not ruling it out because I’d love to be on the debate stages against some of these individuals that think they’re better suited to run the country. Because I think that the American people deserve to listen to and hear from somebody who genuinely cares about making life better for them instead of yourself.”

Smith confirmed that if he were to mount a campaign, it would be as a Democrat. He explained that while he considers himself financially conservative, his views on social issues place him elsewhere on the political spectrum.

“I couldn’t see myself running as a member of the GOP. I’m a fiscal conservative. I can’t stand high taxes, but I’m a social liberal in the same breath because I believe in living and let live,” Smith said. “I pay attention to the desolate and disenfranchised … Yes, I like strong borders. That’s absolutely true. We never needed open borders, but we don’t need it to be completely closed either. We are a gorgeous mosaic.”

Smith has for months floated the idea of challenging establishment politicians as an outsider candidate. Still, there remains a significant difference between entertaining the possibility and formally launching a campaign. Other high-profile figures — including actor Dwayne Johnson and former Disney CEO Bob Iger — have publicly weighed political bids without ultimately running.

After the interview aired, Costa reflected on social media about Smith’s evolving stance. “Stephen A. Smith is moving closer to a 2028 campaign … spending a few days with him in recent months reminded me of spending a few days with Trump back in 2013-2014. Many laughed at the prospect of a bid. But in an age of celebrity and social media…” Costa wrote on X.

Stephen A. Smith is moving closer to a 2028 campaign… spending a few days with him in recent months reminded me of spending a few days with Trump back in 2013-2014. Many laughed at the prospect of a bid. But in an age of celebrity and social media… https://t.co/VrTmJUWtsB
— Robert Costa (@costareports) February 13, 2026

For now, Smith continues his role as one of sports media’s most prominent voices — while keeping the door to politics slightly ajar.

by Mary Spiller

February 14, 2026

House Press Gallery Renamed For Frederick Douglass In Bipartisan Tribute

Lawmakers are honoring the abolitionist during Black History Month, amid national debate over how U.S. history is taught.

The press gallery overlooking the U.S. House chamber has been renamed in honor of abolitionist and writer Frederick Douglass, marking a rare bipartisan moment on Capitol Hill during an ongoing national debate about race and history.

The effort, led by Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., was developed over the past year as he and his staff explored ways to recognize influential Americans — including Black leaders — throughout the Capitol complex. Douglass, who reported on congressional proceedings during the Civil War and advised President Abraham Lincoln, was selected for his historic contributions.

“When we talk about Frederick Douglass, we are talking about a man who possessed a profound and unshakable faith in Americans, in America’s family,” Donalds said at the dedication ceremony.

House Speaker Mike Johnson praised the decision while unveiling a plaque bearing Douglass’ name. “It’s an important thing for us to give honor where honor is due. That’s a biblical admonition,” Johnson said. “Frederick Douglass is certainly deserving of that honor.”

The ceremony, held during Black History Month and coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the earliest national observance of Black history, drew lawmakers, Black conservative leaders, faith figures and Trump administration officials. The Library of Congress displayed artifacts from Douglass’ life as part of the event.

The tribute comes as the country wrestles with broader questions about how race and democracy are taught and understood. President Donald Trump signed executive orders last year aimed at reshaping how American history is presented in federal institutions and public schools. One order asserted that the Smithsonian had “come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology” that “promoted narratives that portray American and Western values as inherently harmful and oppressive.”

Another order argued that in K-12 education, “innocent children are compelled to adopt identities as either victims or oppressors,” directing agencies to combat what the administration described as “anti-American, subversive, harmful, and false ideologies.”

Critics contend those policies risk minimizing the nation’s history of racial injustice, while supporters argue they restore balance by emphasizing stories of perseverance. Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, said honoring Douglass reinforces positive historical narratives. “When we stop telling the good, then people start thinking that we’re not the country that is the promise that we gave,” Owens said. “So we need to talk about our history, our success.”

Rep. Steve Horsford, D-Nev., who collaborated with Donalds, said the renaming reflects a willingness to find common ground. “I wouldn’t be here if it were not for the desire to want to work across the aisle,” Horsford said.

Born into slavery in Maryland, Douglass escaped to freedom and became a leading voice for abolition and equal rights. Donalds praised him for his courage, noting his journey “from the slavery fields to the world stage” stands as “one of the greatest narratives of perseverance in U.S. history.”

Black-owned, restaurants, valentine's day

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Black-Owned Restaurants That Will Fancy Your Lover’s Palate On Valentine’s Day

We spotlight Black-owned dining spots that serve up romance, blending exceptional culinary skill, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable flavors for a date night to remember.

Valentine’s Day transcends traditional gifts of roses and chocolates because it focuses on creating an unforgettable dining experience. We spotlight Black-owned dining spots that serve up romance, blending exceptional culinary skill, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable flavors for a date night to remember. The list features your suggested restaurants, Tatiana NYC, Brooklyn Chop House, Compère Lapin, and Marcus Bar & Grille, together with additional exceptional Black-owned restaurants from across the United States, which transform date night into a masterpiece.

Tatiana

Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s Tatiana restaurant is a culinary gem that combines Caribbean, West African, and New York City culinary traditions into an Afro-Caribbean fine dining experience. The restaurant sits at 10 Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and attracts food lovers, who want to partake in an artistic and sensory culinary experience.

Brooklyn Chop House

The Asian-American steakhouse fusion Brooklyn Chop House delivers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins and David L. Thomas operate Brooklyn Chop House as cultural entrepreneurs who bring their music and hospitality roots to the establishment. The menu presents a delightful fusion of flavors that include lamb dumplings and dry-aged porterhouse steaks. Brooklyn Chop House can be found in multiple NYC locations, including Manhattan’s Financial District and Times Square, making it an ideal spot for romantic dinners. Brooklyn Chop House serves as the perfect dining destination for both Valentine’s Day celebrations and those who want an unforgettable dining experience.

Compère Lapin

Chef Nina Compton offers culinary expertise in Caribbean and French/Italian cuisines at her Caribbean-Creole restaurant Compère Lapin in New Orleans, Louisiana. The contemporary dining establishment unites island flavors with New Orleans cooking techniques and soul. The jerk-honey-butter-dressed fried chicken and curried goat with sweet potato gnocchi is love on a plate. The ambiance makes an ideal place to wine and dine your Valentine. Compère Lapin serves dinner and Sunday brunch at its Warehouse Arts District location, 535 Tchoupitoulas Street. Guests must book early because Valentine’s Day reservations go quickly.

Marcus Bar & Grille

Atlanta’s Marcus Bar & Grille is a modern American restaurant, serving elevated comfort classics with bold flavors rooted in history and community. The kitchen at Marcus Bar & Grille operates under the leadership of Chef Marcus Samuelsson, who gained fame through his Red Rooster restaurant in Harlem, New York, and other culinary ventures. The restaurant at 525 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia, delivers an energetic, yet intimate dining experience through its wood-fired cooking and inventive cocktails, and soulful dishes. The romantic atmosphere at Marcus Bar & Grille is enhanced through dinner service or the prix-fixe menu available on Valentine’s Day. The lively setting at Marcus Bar & Grille is perfect for couples who want to enjoy elevated comfort food from brisket hash to lamb chops and Sunday supper prix-fixe menus.

Linden

Linden is an intimate multicultural dining restaurant located in Los Angeles, California. The Black-owned contemporary restaurant serves elevated Caribbean, Southern, Jewish, and New York-inspired comfort food. The restaurant was co-founded by Alahna Jade, Sterling “Steelo” Brim, Vincent Bryant, Scott Williams, and Jonathan Harris, who serves as chef. Linden provides a sophisticated yet warm dining environment where polished plating meets communal dining. The menu’s signature dishes include oxtail wagyu pie and Southern fried chicken with innovative sides and creative cocktails that complete the dining experience. Linden’s distinctive combination of culinary techniques and flavors contributes to its celebratory environment, which suits date night occasions. The restaurant operates for dinner every day throughout the year, but requires reservations for Valentine’s Day.

The LaRoux Table

LaRoux Table is a modern Cajun-Creole restaurant in Houston, Texas, that delivers an exceptional southern dining experience. Owner and chef Senae Tate creates a Louisiana heritage-inspired menu, which combines traditional Cajun and Creole dishes with contemporary culinary techniques. The menu includes gumbo and boudin balls alongside creative fried chicken options. LaRoux Table is a dining destination for couples who want an upscale romantic experience. The restaurant’s bold and soulful flavors make every dish conversational. It’s a perfect choice for Valentine’s Day. The restaurant recommends making reservations because it becomes busy during peak dining times, including Valentine’s Day.

Chemistry

Chemistry is a Black-owned steakhouse in Illinois that delivers an outstanding full-service, fine-dining experience in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. The restaurant’s elegant environment and classic steakhouse menu serve premium steak cuts alongside beautifully crafted side dishes to draw couples who want a luxurious dining experience. Chemistry Chicago stands as one of the most talked-about Black-owned fine dining establishments in the region that guarantees every guest an unforgettable dining experience.

Red Rooster

Red Rooster Overtown is an upscale restaurant in Miami, Florida, that honors African-American heritage. The restaurant brings together elevated global flavors through Chef Marcus Samuelsson, Derek Fleming, and Michael Simkins, who created the establishment to honor Southern, Caribbean, and African diasporic culinary traditions. The restaurant serves dinner every night from its location at 920 NW 2nd Ave. in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood. Red Rooster strongly recommends making reservations for Valentine’s Day due to high demand.

by Kandiss Edwards

February 14, 2026

Michael Jackson Estate Tells Sexyy Red To ‘Beat It’ After Disrespectful Sample

In a statement, representatives for the estate said they were "deeply disappointed" by the use of elements from the classic song.

The estate of Michael Jackson has condemned rapper Sexyy Red for what it calls the unauthorized use of his classic song “Beat It” in a newly released track.

“Michael Jackson’s music is protected by copyright and by a legacy that is carefully managed to honor his artistic vision,” the estate said in a statement to Billboard. “The unauthorized sampling and alteration of ‘Beat It’ undermines that legacy and violates the rights of the Estate.”

Furthermore, the Michael Jackson estate emphasized that it has “zero tolerance” for unlicensed uses of Jackson’s recordings. Representatives said they are “reviewing all available legal remedies.”

The team “will take appropriate action to protect Michael’s intellectual property and preserve the integrity of his work,” the statement read.

Sexyy Red is going viral for remixing Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ into ‘Just Eat It’ 👀

pic.twitter.com/1YKHIBX3xV
— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) February 11, 2026

Earlier this week clips of a “Beat It” remix titled “Just Eat It” circulated on social media after rapper Lil Yachty shared footage of Sexyy Red in the recording studio. The remix reworks the original track with explicit lyrics. Circulation of the video in which Sexyy Red rapped and gestured toward her genitals sparked aggressive commentary from fans online.

@BigMarsh414094 said, “Bruno Mars made a song with this person btw And I never want to hear another song by Sexxy Red ever again.” @BTCBabyBull referenced Red’s song “Pound Town” when commenting: “Jackson Estate Finna sue the Pink out her coochie and brown out that booty hole”

Another fan, @bippleyipsnipp, used words by Jackson in “They Don’t Really Care About Us” to denounce Red’s version: “And if Michael Jackson was living, he wouldn’t let this be nooo noo!”

It was unclear whether the estate had formally filed a lawsuit or issued takedown notices. What is clear is that the estate intends to keep Jackson’s musical legacy clean.

“Every decision we make is guided by preserving his artistry and ensuring that future generations experience his work as intended.”

by Kandiss Edwards

February 14, 2026

Stefon Diggs Pleads Not Guilty To Assault On His Personal Chef

The arraignment was postponed from late January so that Diggs could participate in Super Bowl LX, where the Patriots were defeated by the Seattle Seahawks.

New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs appeared in a Massachusetts courtroom Feb. 13, where he formally entered a not guilty plea to multiple criminal charges.

Diggs pleaded not guilty to strangulation and assault charges due to an alleged altercation with his former personal chef. The incident reportedly took place on Dec. 2, 2025, at Diggs’s Dedham, Massachusetts, residence following a dispute over unpaid compensation.

During the arraignment at Dedham District Court, Diggs was charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery, ESPN reported. Court records indicate the unnamed chef told police Diggs entered her room, located in his home, where they began to argue over wages. During the argument, she claimed he struck and placed his arm around her neck in a chokehold, causing her difficulty breathing. Diggs vehemently denies all claims. Diggs’ attorney, Mitchell Schuster, told reporters, “He is completely innocent of these false allegations that have been alleged against him. We’re confident that after the facts and evidence reviewed in this case, he will be completely exonerated.”

Stefon Diggs pleads not guilty to assaulting his female private chef.

Diggs lost the Super Bowl, split from Cardi B, and now has to deal with this legal situation less than a week after the Super Bowl.
pic.twitter.com/sjm5Oe17ca
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) February 13, 2026

Additionally, Schuster reiterated the player’s denial of wrongdoing outside the courtroom, calling the accusations “unsubstantiated and financially motivated.” The New England Patriots organization also issued a statement affirming its support for the receiver while emphasizing cooperation with authorities.

Judge Jeanmarie Carroll released Diggs on his own recognizance, ordering him not to have contact with the alleged victim. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for April 1.

The arraignment was postponed from late January so that the NFL star could participate in Super Bowl LX, where the Patriots were defeated by the Seattle Seahawks. Unfortunately, along with legal troubles, Diggs is facing other personal battles. The Patriot had a public falling out with his high-profile girlfriend Cardi B, and is facing multiple paternity issues as he allegedly fathered more than 4 children in 2025.

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Love On Your Hair For Valentine’s Day With 5 Of The Best Bask & Lather Co. Products

Shaina Rainford established Bask & Lather Co. to provide natural haircare solutions for growth.

Valentine’s Day allows people to show affection to others and to focus on self-care, which enhances personal confidence and overall well-being. The founder, Shaina Rainford, established Bask & Lather Co. to provide natural haircare solutions for growth, which attracted a loyal customer base through personal experience and community-driven needs. The misdiagnosis of a scalp condition that caused severe hair loss to Rainford’s younger sister inspired her to create this Black-owned brand, with plant-based formulations, that restore scalp health while strengthening hair strands for long-term improvement. Bask & Lather’s most popular products from their Valentine’s Day collection provide a perfect reminder that self-love can start with caring for your hair. The products make perfect additions to self-care hair routines that focus on intentional practice and restoration while delivering measurable results.

Scalp Stimulator Hair Growth Oil

The Scalp Stimulator Hair Growth Oil helps with thinning hair, hair loss, or slow hair growth by nourishing the scalp and improving circulation to stimulate stronger, healthier hair when used regularly. Use the product one-to-four times per week or every day if you have localized thinning or bald spots. The cold-pressed blend of rosemary and mint and omega fatty acids promotes hair growth and scalp health through root nourishment and irritation relief and dandruff reduction, and shine enhancement.

Hair Elixir Oil

The Hair Elixir Oil is a strengthening oil that contains Jamaican Black Castor Oil with vitamins and nutrients to lock moisture into fragile hair while reducing breakage. The product functions as a pre-poo treatment, heat protectant, and hot-oil treatment when applied 3 to 4 times weekly on damp or dry hair. The product is commonly used with Scalp Stimulator. It hydrates hair while softening strands and improving manageability, which supports healthy hair growth.

Stimulating Scalp & Hair Balm

The Stimulating Scalp & Hair Balm combines shea and mango butters with jojoba oil and peppermint to provide extended hydration and shine to dry scalps and frizzy-textured hair. The balm creates a cooling sensation while improving scalp comfort and delivering antioxidants and vitamin E to support healthier roots and strands. Apply this product following a hydrating mist on wash day or whenever you need moisture and scalp relief. The product has become part of the best-selling collections while increasing its presence on major retail platforms.

Strengthen Hair Shampoo

The Strengthen Hair Shampoo is a pH-balanced shampoo that contains no sulfates, parabens, or silicones and cleanses the hair without removing its natural oils. Apply this product on wash days to start your hair care routine before using conditioner and treatment products. The product comes in two sizes: standard and XL. The formula includes natural ingredients such as castor oil, grapefruit extract, and shea butter to support scalp health while minimizing hair breakage and dry scalp conditions.

Hydrating Hair Mist

This lightweight spray includes aloe vera with avocado and glycerin to deliver instant hydration while managing frizz and soothing scalp itchiness. The mist enhances hair absorption of conditioners and oils while delivering scalp itch relief.

The Hydrating Hair Mist is designed for daily use and can be applied before styling hair. Bask & Lather provides this product in two different sizes: regular and XL.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 14, 2026

Chris Paul Retires From Basketball After Being Waived By Toronto Raptors

'This is it! After over 21 years I'm stepping away from basketball!'

After announcing before the season that this would be his last, although it did not pan out as he hoped, future NBA Hall of Famer Chris Paul has made it official: he is retiring from basketball after being traded to and then waived by the Toronto Raptors.

The All-Star point guard took to his social media account to let the world know that he has led his last NBA team down the court.

“This is it! After over 21 years I’m stepping away from basketball. As I write this, it’s hard to really know what to feel, but for once — most people would be surprised — I don’t have the answer lol! But, mostly I’m filled with so much joy and gratitude! While this chapter of being an “NBA player” is done, the game of basketball will forever be engrained in the DNA of my life.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chris Paul (@cp3)

His career was supposed to end in Los Angeles with the franchise he led on the court for six seasons when it was announced that he was returning to the Clippers before the season started. The franchise stated that he was coming “home” after leaving it at the end of the 2017 NBA season. The future NBA Hall of Famer played with the Clippers from 2011 to the end of the 2016-17 season.

After reports of disagreements with the Clippers’ head coach, Tyronn Lue, and several teammates during the season, the team sent the point guard home in the middle of the night during a road trip in Atlanta. At 3 a.m. on Dec. 3, the veteran posted on his social media account that he was being “sent home” by the Clippers.

Lawrence Frank, the team’s President of Basketball Operations, released a statement that confirmed the release.

The once-explosive point guard was traded to the Raptors as the trade deadline approached, and after the team made it clear he was not in their future plans, Paul decided to call it quits.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement praising the career of the point guard and gave him props for his work as a former president of the National Basketball Players Association.

“After 21 remarkable seasons, Chris Paul retires as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and a true steward of our sport,” Silver said in a written statement. “From the moment he entered the league, Chris distinguished himself with his savvy playmaking skills, elite competitiveness and intense work ethic. He also poured enormous time and energy into his role as President of the Players Association – offering thoughtful and principled perspectives to strengthen our game and our business.”

Chris Paul has played for seven teams throughout his NBA career. His first team was the New Orleans Hornets (2005-11). He played for the Los Angeles Clippers (2011-17), Houston Rockets (2017-19), Oklahoma City Thunder (2019-20), Phoenix Suns (2020-23), Golden State Warriors (2023-24), and San Antonio Spurs (2024-25) before making the short-lived return to the Clippers.

After playing for 21 seasons, he has been an NBA All-Star 12 times (2008-16, 2020-22) and has been named to the All-NBA team 11 times (2008-09, 2011-16, 2020-22). His defensive skills earned him a spot on the All-Defensive team nine times (2008-09, 2011-17). He is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist representing the country in 2008 and 2012.

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Skip The Red Roses: Here Are Black-Owned Valentine’s Day Gifts That Slay

To make it plain—Buy Black.

The following Valentine’s Day gift guide highlights Black brands and entrepreneurs who offer products and services with Black consumers in mind. The purchase of Black-owned brands during peak shopping periods not only offers gift givers unique and cultural gift options, but also strengthens the economic power among Black-owned businesses that lead innovation in retail products and increases the economic flow within the Black communities they benefit and exist in.

To make it plain—Buy Black.

TELFAR Shopping Bag

The unisex TELFAR Shopping Bag is a stylish faux-leather shopping bag that Telfar Clemens designed for his globally recognized Black-owned brand TELFAR. The bag is available for purchase through TELFAR’s official online store and selected retail partners.

Mila Eve Essentials Massage Oil

The Black-owned wellness brand Mila Eve Essentials produces this natural essential oil massage oil. Customers can purchase this product as a Valentine’s Day gift as an expression of love and care or to create a sensual experience around the day.

Introvert N the City’s Love Notes Deck

The Love Notes Deck is a collection of 50 pre-written love note cards created by the small Black-owned creative shop Introvert N the City. The cards help partners share their emotions during times when verbal communication is difficult. The deck makes an ideal Valentine’s Day gift to reinforce loving connections. It retails at $40 and is available through the brand’s website as well as specialty stores.

Savoir Faire Cologne

Savoir Faire Cologne is a Black-owned fragrance brand founded by Chris Classic. The sensual cologne “Love Suede” was created in 2017, following the establishment of the business. The Valentine’s Day men’s cologne features musk and complex base notes in its composition. This line becomes especially relevant during Valentine’s Day. The “Love Suede” fragrance is available through Savoir Faire’s online store and through Black-owned commerce partners.

Maya’s Cookies Valentine’s Collection

Maya’s Cookies, a leading black-owned gourmet vegan cookie company in America, offers its Valentine’s Collection, which includes six delicious cookies to satisfy a sweet tooth. The cookie collection includes heart-shaped sugar cookies together with double chocolate sweethearts and traditional chocolate chip cookies which make each treat a work of art. These cookies are both delicious treats and meaningful gifts. Maya’s Cookies offers these delicious cookies through their online store, where you can make your purchase today.

Les’ Bloom Floral Bouquets

Les’ Bloom Floral Bouquets is owned by florist Rasheedah Leslie. Based in Brooklyn, Les’ Bloom Floral Bouquets combines classic flowers with a Black-owned twist. The floral shop offers handcrafted floral arrangements with Valentine’s Day aesthetics and sentiments. These bouquets are lush. Customers can make orders for pick up or have their bouquets delivered.