Killer Mike To Perform At Atlanta Hawks Halftime Show During MLK Day

Killer Mike will perform a special tribute during halftime, celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King.

The Atlanta Hawks have announced their plans for the annual MLK Game presented by Chase at the city’s State Farm Arena on Jan. 15. Hip-hop icon and Atlanta native Killer Mike, nominated for three Grammy awards, will perform a special tribute during halftime, celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Fans in attendance will receive Hawks-branded tote bags courtesy of Chase, according to Sports Illustrated.

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Hawks players and staff, during warmups, will wear special MLK shooting shirts featuring a quote from Dr. King. The Hawks, donning their Fly City Edition uniforms, will face San Antonio at 3:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at hawks.com/tickets.

Killer Mike expressed his excitement about his upcoming performance, saying, “As an Atlanta native and fellow Morehouse Man who is also a Hawks fan, performing for Atlanta during the MLK celebration is the homecoming dream of a lifetime.”

Known for his roles as musician, advocate, and entrepreneur, Killer Mike’s influence extends beyond his music career. He owns a chain of barbershops, including one at State Farm Arena named the S.W.A.G. Shop.

Melissa Proctor, chief marketing officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena, said, “We are beyond excited to have world-renowned and Atlanta’s own Killer Mike perform as part of this special annual MLK Game presented by Chase.”

Before the game, a Chase-sponsored panel titled “A Transparent Conversation About Homeownership in Atlanta” will discuss increasing homeownership rates among Black Americans in Atlanta. Panelists include Terri M. Lee (COO, Atlanta Housing), Corey Mason (head of Chase home lending for Atlanta), and Latresa McLawhorn Ryan (CEO, Blackbird Strategy Group).

In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s activism, Olympian Dr. Tommie Smith will be honored during the game. Dr. Smith is known for his iconic gesture at the 1968 Olympics, raising a fist during the national anthem to signify his dedication to civil rights.

The Hawks and Chase will also honor local Black- and woman-owned marketing firm Communiqué USA. Furthermore, the Clark Atlanta University Philharmonic Society will perform during the player introductions and the national anthem.