Tyler Perry Visits The Bahamas To Celebrate 50 Years of Independence

by Daniel Johnson

October 1, 2023

Tyler Perry Visits The Bahamas To Celebrate 50 Years of Independence

Following his efforts to help the island following the devastation of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, Tyler Perry visited the Bahamas recently to help celebrate 50 years of Bahamian independence from the colonial rule of the United Kingdom.

In a Sept. 24 Facebook post Prime Minister Philip Davis’s Office of the Prime Minister acknowledged Perry.

“Earlier this weekend, Tyler Perry paid Prime Minister Philip Davis a courtesy visit to celebrate The Bahamas’ remarkable milestone of 50 years of independence,” the post read. “During their meeting, Perry shared warm congratulations and expressed his admiration for the nation’s achievements. He also highlighted the incredible potential for growth in The Bahamas’ Orange Economy, emphasizing the exciting new opportunities for the creative arts and cultural industries.”

According to the Bahamas Development Bank, The Bahamas’ Orange Economy refers to all sectors of the country’s economy based on the creation of intellectual property.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) states that the “main purpose of the Orange Economy, is the production or reproduction, promotion, dissemination, and/or the marketing of goods, services and activities that have cultural, artistic, or patrimonial content.”

Perry, who owns a private island in The Bahamas, has described himself as an adoptive son of the island in the past.

“I very much feel like a part of the Bahamian people,” he told The Tribune. “If we go back to our history and our culture, and how we all got into America and this part of the world, you know, we all have a common bond. So to have a country celebrating 50 years of independence is pretty amazing, especially being people of color who know what it takes to be independent and to make their way through things.”

Perry also stated his commitment to involving The Bahamas in future projects.

“I write what I know and what I understand,” Perry said. “I never want to be insulting to anyone. So until I fully get immersed and understand and spend time with some real downhome Bahamians—and here’s the other part of it, each island is going to have their own different flavor and feel so until I can understand all of that I don’t want to insult anybody,” he said.

by Jameelah Mullen

October 1, 2023

Hughes Brothers’ Take Home Pay For ‘Menace II Society’ Was Meager

After a four-way split, and taxes and fees, the Hughes brothers received a mere $24,000—if that—from their debut film Menace II Society despite the movie being a box office success.

Albert Hughes, who directed the cultural classic with his twin brother Allen, confirmed the meager earnings in an exclusive interview with VLADTV.

“$100,000 between the two Hughes brothers, right, after taxes, agents … we probably made less than $24,000 and not a dime more,” Hughes said.

When asked if he has ever seen royalties the director responded, “yeah, enough to pay a light bill maybe.”

“Sometimes, you get a check that’s like five cents,” Hughes said. “This ain’t even worth the labor.”

Thirty years ago, Menace II Society was released in theaters May 26, 1993, grossing $3,839,638 opening weekend after producing the film on a $3.5 million budget, The Numbers reported. The movie which contributed to the success of Hollywood actors Tyrin Turner, Jada Pinkett Smith and Larenz Tate, went on to gross $30 million, making the Hughes brothers’ profit that much more abysmal. Luckily for the filmmaking duo, their sophomore effort fetched them far more from Disney Studios.

The brothers received a $1 million check to direct Dead Presidents, another hit movie that raked in $24,000,000 after its 1995 release, and solidified their talents in Tinsel Town.

Menace II Society and Dead Presidents is now streaming on multiple platforms.

RELATED CONTENT: 22 Movies You Didn’t Know Had Black Directors

PVDFest, Arts and Culture, Edward Mitchell Bannister, Art, Statues, African American Statues

by Daron Pressley

October 1, 2023

Providence’s PVDFest Unveils Statue Of Black Artist Edward M. Bannister

PVDFest, held from Sept. 8-11, is the signature cultural event in the capital city of Rhode Island. Founded in 1636, Providence is known as the birthplace of religious freedom and has experienced significant evolution over the last five decades.

Providence boasts a flourishing arts scene, along with lively and multifaceted neighborhoods that attract over 100,000 visitors to Downtown Providence each year for PVDFest.

“PVDFest is a celebration of the people who drive our Creative Capital: its artists, artisans, and the creatives within every sector of our beloved community,” Joe Wilson Jr., a veteran actor who runs the City’s Office of Art, Culture, and Tourism, says.

Home to prestigious schools like Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales, Providence is rich in art, culture, and African-American history.

The highlight of PVDFest was the unveiling of the Edward M. Bannister Sculpture, memorializing the impact Bannister had on American landscape art.

Edward Mitchell Bannister Statue: A Catalyst for Change

Unveiled during PVDFest, the Edward Mitchell Bannister statue represents a significant milestone in honoring the legacy of this esteemed African-American artist.

“The Bannister statue honors an abolitionist and social justice warrior who has left a somewhat forgotten legacy,” says Washawn Jones of the Bannister Community Art Project. “The courage it took Bannister to pursue a passion for art during a time when there was no place for black people cannot go without mention.”

Sculptures representing Black Americans, or the absence thereof, often go unnoticed as a gauge of racial advancement, yet they exist in plain view. These statues serve as dynamic symbols that can underscore the significance and presence of Black Americans. Conversely, the absence of such statues conveys a stark message of exclusion. In 2021, Monument Lab surveyed 48,178 statues, plaques, parks, and obelisks across the United States and found that less than 1% were of people of color.

Jennifer Davis-Allison of the Bannister Art Club describes the sculpture as a celebration but not the destination.

“There are three platforms that are important in continuing the significant contributions of Bannister. Education, art, and engagement are the pillars to carry on his legacy and integrate a learning experience,” says Davis-Allison.

The economic impact of PVDFest

Artists and performers from around the block and the globe converge in Providence to showcase their talent. The economic impact reached over $2 million for the city, with expectations to grow.

Providence artist and musician Spocka Summa see PVDFest as a driver of entrepreneurial activity. “If you have an idea, put yourself out there,” he says. “PVDFest is a playing field for entrepreneurs and creatives to share their unique abilities with tens of thousands of people.”

Sidi Maïga, a world-renowned Malian djembe drummer is a staple at PVDFest, sharing his West African Dance and Drum Festival: Afrika Nyaga.

“My partnership with the festival allows me to create something to unite the community,” Maïga says. “I also want to inspire and educate young people who see my performances. I want them to see it is possible to be a professional drummer and touch thousands of people through music”

A powerful statement

The unveiling of the Edward Mitchell Bannister statue at PVDFest is a powerful testament to the enduring importance of recognizing and celebrating African-American artists and visionaries in our society.

Not only does the stature pay homage to Bannister’s remarkable legacy as an abolitionist and artist, but also catalyzes change, reminding us of the courage it took to pursue a passion for art during a time of systemic inequality. Sculptures like Bannister’s are vital symbols that underscore the significance and presence of Black Americans in our cultural narrative.

As we continue to celebrate PVDFest’s vibrant arts scene and its economic impact, let us also remember the enduring importance of the Bannister statue as an instrument of education, art, and engagement, bridging the past and the present, and inspiring future generations to break barriers and make their mark on the world.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 1, 2023

Detroit Doll Show Brings Fun And Empowerment With The Help Of American Girl

Originally published on BlackNews

Sandy’s Land LLC is an entertainment service where the mission is to “Party with a Purpose” to provide amusement and empowerment.

Its 2023 Detroit Doll Show will include new and returning vendors and a power-packed program to delight every child as well as the inner child of an adult. Attendees will experience a variety of vendors that include authors, artists, selfie stations, Christmas Diorama and Black dolls.

The event has moved to the Marygrove Conservancy to provide free parking, food trucks and comfort in the heart of the west side community on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 11am to 6pm. The first one hundred people will receive a swag bag.

Program will include tribute in honor of Detroit’s Icon Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson and character developer of Melody Ellison American Girl Doll; legacy award presentation to honor Tawana Petty Founder of Petty Propolis; Rev. Mayowa Reynolds, Principal; Lil Dee Davis and Luciana Gilmore, Founders of Our Brown Boy Joy; Panel Discussion, “The Negative Impact of Colorism in our Community”; Food Trucks, DJ (Live Music), Raffles, Arts & Crafts, Giant Games, Best Dressed Reborn Doll, Largest Doll Look-Alike Group Selfie, African Drumming & Dance; and a special announcement in regards to the Butterfly Garden & Black Doll Museum.

The Detroit Doll Show’s mission is to celebrate the history, culture, diversity, and self-love with the promotions of dolls of color. This includes action figures and books. The Detroit Doll Show has been featured in the Michigan Citizen, the Detroit News & Free Press, BLAC Magazine, Metro Parent, American Black Journal/PBS, Fox 2, The Noon; WDIV – Live In the D; Rolling Out Magazine, Black America Web, Black Doll Collecting and Dolls Magazine. The event draws in attendees from around the globe of all ages.

Author Denise Crittendon stated, “It’s rewarding and self-affirming to see dolls in one’s own image. The DDS — the largest and most fascinating display of dolls of color I have ever seen — fulfills that need and so much more. Visitors are exposed to dolls of color from all over the globe. It’s a cultural experience that’s beautiful and unforgettable.”

Be prepared to shop with unique vendors before the Christmas holiday and have a Dollightful time at Sandy’s Land LLC’s 12th Annual Detroit Doll Show on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 11am to 6pm at Marygrove Conservancy, 8425 W. McNichols, Detroit, MI 48221.

Single and group tickets can be purchased in advance at https://detroitdoll.bigcartel.com

To become a sponsor or for questions, email detroitdollshow@gmail.com

by Jameelah Mullen

October 1, 2023

Social Media Users React After Podcaster Says Black Women Are The Only Women Who ‘Embrace The Struggle’

An Instagram clip from the 8 At The Table podcast had social media users in an uproar recently when a guest claimed that Black women are the “only race” of women who wants to be independent, and they seem to “embrace the struggle.”

A social media influencer who goes by the Instagram handle @Gwap0 made these remarks when he appeared as a guest on the podcast.

“I’ve never heard no Spanish woman talking about she happy to be independent. I never seen a white woman in my life on the ‘gram saying I’m independent.“

“Right here,” panelist Aly_ems, a white woman, chimed in.

The animated guest seemed to ignore her statement and continued to speak.

“This is why we as a people don’t have a strong bond because Black women don’t want us,” the guest said, seemingly saying Black women don’t want Black men.

When the clip was reposted to Onsite’s Instagram page, social media users quickly chimed in with passionate rebuttals.

Instagram user panther4_lyfe, who appears to be a male, offered encouragement to Black women.

“And you never hear Brazilian, Chinese, and white men blaming the government for their constant shortfalls and brokenness! Our Black women have unwillingly adapted and that’s commendable not a fault! Keep shining Black women!”

Fox Soul Commentator Claudia Jordan wrote: “Trust us/ it’s not a choice. Many of us feel on our own and not protected from a very early age so we ACT like we embrace the struggle to not appear weak but many of us want nothing more to have a real partner we can totally feel safe with that won’t bounce at the slightest inconvenience. It’s a survival tactic IN MY OPINION (from being disappointed so much!).”

On the full episode of the podcast, which appears on YouTube, the outspoken influencer blamed “butt-hurt” mothers and grandmothers for Black women’s (perceived ) ideologies.

“They put that pain in their daughters,” he said.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 30, 2023

Shirley Strawberry’s Estranged ‘Husband’ Is Allegedly Still Married To First Wife

The plot thickens with the scandal surrounding Earnest “Ernesto” Williams, 58, and his estranged “wife,” The Steve Harvey Morning Show co-host Shirley Strawberry, 69, after a YouTube vlogger exposed the jailbird as an alleged bigamist.

A video uploaded by vlogger Chronicle Speaks on Sept. 25 reportedly revealed Ernesto’s first wife, Edith Williams, contacted the vlogger to divulge that he had been married to her for 37 years. Although Ernesto appeared to have jumped the broom four times, Edith assured Chronicle Speaks that they’ve never legally divorced, so the other women, including Shirley- were never his wives. A certificate of marriage from 2019 documented that the former couple married on Oct. 22, 1985, in Aiken County, South Carolina.

Chronicle Speaks also explained that Edith and Ernesto were college sweethearts who started a business together upon graduating. The former chucked the deuces to her philandering husband after his infidelity and lying became excessive. She didn’t clarify why they never divorced. The other women he fooled into thinking he was married to were Martha, Carol and now Shirley. He was “married” to Martha for 20 years and two years to Carol.

The vlogger shared that the incarcerated man’s estranged wife noted that he never touched her children inappropriately. In 2022, the 58-year-old barber faced charges of gun possession, child pornography, theft and fraud. He’s currently serving just under two years in prison for fraud in Georgia. Ernesto is still facing other egregious charges, including rape and trafficking of a person for sexual servitude, among other violations, stemming from July.

Ernesto’s latest victim, Shirley, is reportedly ready to move on from the cheating debacle, his jail shenanigans and an uncomfortable incident with her boss and friend, Steve Harvey. Black Enterprise reported that the 69-year-old media personality faced public humiliation after a phone call leaked between her and her incarcerated spouse. Shirley alleged that Marjorie Harvey was not kind to Steve’s employees and that the 66-year-old comedian was reportedly “afraid” of Marjorie.

Steve reportedly expressed to the media personality how hurtful her words were, “When [the phone calls] came out, [it was] a little bit different because it’s not gossip, rumor, or [a] malicious lie. It came from the inside circle… ’cause we’re an inside circle. We are family.”

He did eventually forgive his friend.

by Ann Brown

September 30, 2023

‘I Don’t Play Bout My Baby’: Jonathan Owens Fires Back At Fan Who Said His Wife, Simone Biles, Was Rude

Don’t talk bad about NFL player Jonathan Owens’ wife, who happens to be the most decorated gymnast ever, Simone Biles.

Owens, a defensive back for the Green Bay Packers, defended his wife against claims of rudeness made by a fan who encountered Biles during a shopping trip. The incident was brought to light when the fan alleged that Biles was dismissive and impolite during their encounter at a makeup store where she had been working.

The fan, whose account is now private, detailed the encounter through a series of tweets. According to the tweets, the fan mentioned an incident from several months ago, where Biles was described as “so f***ing rude.”

The fan claimed that Biles, 26, refused to take a picture with a coworker’s daughter, justifying it by saying, “Absolutely not. Your daughter is 4 she doesn’t even know me.”

The fan also alleged that Biles complained to the store manager about feeling uncomfortable with people staring at her while she shopped, TMZ reported.

“For months after,” the woman also tweeted, “every time I’d see new about her and they would call her sweet I just recall how mean she was for no reason. When she left we all were like ‘what the f*** just happened.'”

Owens took to social media to defend his wife against these accusations, calling the story a lie.

Owens explained that he was with Biles during the encounter in question and asserted that the allegations were an attempt to gain viral attention. He stressed that Biles is the “sweetest person in the world” and clarified that declining a picture doesn’t make someone rude. Owens further expressed that celebrities often desire to shop in peace and added that unwanted attention can be overwhelming, The New York Post reported.

“Spreading lies on the internet is crazy,” he posted. “It’s okay for her to deny a picture. People don’t understand sometimes you just want to shop in peace, if she stops and takes one picture people will just keep following her and won’t leave us alone.”

He added, “And another thing, I’ve never heard her talk to someone like that, especially to someone who asked her for a picture, like why would you try to make her look like that.”

He continued, “I’m not going for that, I don’t play bout my baby.”

by Daron Pressley

September 30, 2023

PVDFest Unveils Statue Of Black Artist Edward M. Bannister

PVDFest, recently held from Sept. 8-11, is the signature cultural event in the capital city of Rhode Island. Founded in 1636, Providence is known as the birthplace of religious freedom and has experienced significant evolution over the last five decades. Providence boasts a flourishing arts scene, along with lively and multifaceted neighborhoods that attract over 100,000 visitors to Downtown Providence each year for PVDFest.

Joe Wilson Jr., a veteran actor who runs the City’s Office of Art, Culture, and Tourism, says, “PVDFest is a celebration of the people who drive our Creative Capital: its artists, artisans, and the creatives within every sector of our beloved community.”

Home to prestigious schools like Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales, Providence is rich in art, culture, and African-American history.

The highlight of PVDFest was the unveiling of the Edward M. Bannister Sculpture, memorializing the impact Bannister had on American landscape art.

Edward Mitchell Bannister Statue: A Catalyst for Change

Unveiled during PVDFest, the Edward Mitchell Bannister statue represents a significant milestone in honoring the legacy of this esteemed African-American artist.

“The Bannister statue honors an abolitionist and social justice warrior who has left a somewhat forgotten legacy,” says Washawn Jones from the Bannister Community Art Project. “The courage it took Bannister to pursue a passion for art during a time when there was no place for black people cannot go without mention.”

Sculptures representing Black Americans, or the absence thereof, often go unnoticed as a gauge of racial advancement, yet they exist in plain view. These statues, although silent, serve as dynamic symbols that can underscore the significance and presence of Black Americans. Conversely, the absence of such statues conveys a stark message of exclusion. In 2021, Monument Lab surveyed 48,178 statues, plaques, parks, and obelisks across the United States. In its report, the group found that less than 1% were of people of color.

Jennifer Davis-Allison of the Bannister Art Club describes the sculpture as a celebration but not the destination. “There are three platforms that are important in continuing the significant contributions of Bannister. Education, art, and engagement are the pillars to carry on his legacy and integrate a learning experience,” says Davis-Allison.

PVDFest: The economic impact

Artists and performers from around the block and the globe converge in Providence to showcase their talent to the Creative Capital. The economic impact reached over 2 million dollars for the city, with expectations to grow.

Local artists, musicians, and founders of The Anti-Social Club Spocka Summa see PVDFest as a driver of entrepreneurial activity.

“If you have an idea, put yourself out there,” exclaims Summa. “PVDFest is a playing field for entrepreneurs and creatives to share their unique abilities with tens of thousands of people.”

Sidi Maïga, a world-renowned Malian djembe drummer is a staple at PVDFest, sharing his West African Dance and Drum Festival: Afrika Nyaga. “My partnership with the festival allows me to create something to unite the community,” Maïga remarks. “I also want to inspire and educate young people who see my performances. I want them to see it is possible to be a professional drummer and touch thousands of people through music”

A powerful statement

The unveiling of the Edward Mitchell Bannister statue at PVDFest is a powerful testament to the enduring importance of recognizing and celebrating African-American artists and visionaries in our society. Not only does the stature pay homage to Bannister’s remarkable legacy as an abolitionist and artist, but also catalyzes change, reminding us of the courage it took to pursue a passion for art during a time of systemic inequality. Sculptures like Bannister’s are vital symbols that underscore the significance and presence of Black Americans in our cultural narrative. As we continue to celebrate PVDFest’s vibrant arts scene and its economic impact, let us also remember the enduring importance of the Bannister statue as an instrument of education, art, and engagement, bridging the past and the present, and inspiring future generations to break barriers and make their mark on the world.

Tyrese Gibson Claims Rights To Teddy Pendergrass’ Biopic, Sues Legendary Singer’s Widow

by Ann Brown

September 30, 2023

Tyrese Gibson Claims Rights To Teddy Pendergrass’ Biopic, Sues Legendary Singer’s Widow

Fresh from suing Home Depot over alleged racial discrimination, Tyrese Gibson went to social media to announce he is suing the widow of R&B legend Teddy Pendergrass. Gibson’s production company, Voltron Entertainment, is suing Joan Pendergrass over the rights to late singer’s biopic.

In documents obtained by TMZ, Tyrese claims that his company secured the exclusive rights to Teddy Pendergrass’s life story back in 2011, with Joan’s approval. The agreement involved Voltron’s investment in the biopic and using Tyrese’s celebrity status for promotion. According to the lawsuit, Tyrese and Voltron have invested approximately $450,000 in the project, TMZ reported.

But things took a turn in 2022 when Joan allegedly changed her mind and refused to extend the option for the rights to Teddy’s life story. Tyrese contends that this sudden decision resulted in financial harm to Voltron. So now he’s suing Joan, both in her individual capacity and as the executor of Teddy’s estate, seeking damages of at least $1 million.

In an emotional Instagram post, Tyrese shared that Teddy Pendergrass himself had chosen him for the role. He emphasized his determination to honor both Teddy and his mother, a devoted Teddy Pendergrass fan, by ensuring the movie’s realization.

Tyrese says Joan agreed to give him the rights to a book and movie about Teddy in exchange for Tyrese’s company agreeing to invest in the projects and use his celeb status to promote them and Teddy’s legacy.

Pendergrass first came to fame in the early 1970s as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, and became a super success as an R&B solo artist with five consecutive platinum albums. In a 1982 traffic accident, he suffered a spinal cord injury that left him a quadriplegic. He had to learn how to sing again, and not only he do so but he also performed live after the accident.

Pendergrass continued his solo career until his retirement in 2007. He died of cancer in 2010.

Gibson announced he would produce the bio-pic with his Voltron Pictures with “Empire” co-creator and executive producer Lee Daniels and Donald De Line through De Line Pictures. Warner Bros. has hired Little Marvin (creator of Amazon’s upcoming “Them”) to write the screenplay. Joan Pendergrass, was to have been an executive producer.

“I am honored to take this journey… this is the role that I feel I was born to play,” Gibson told Variety back in 2019 when the project was first announced.. “Teddy Pendergrass embraced me and before he passed put the responsibility on my shoulders to tell his story. Being here in this time and in this space and moment with Lee Daniels, Donald De Line, Little Marvin and Warner Bros. is an answered prayer. Teddy, I just hope we make you, your wife and family proud… Here we go!!”

In a long Instagram post, Tyrese said that the late singer himself wanted Tyrese to play him in his biopic.

“This has been 13 years+ years in the makin this man embraced me when he was on this earth and shared to me ‘No one can play me in my biopic but you Tyrese I’m sure of it’…. -TP,” Tyrece wrote.

“Hearing those words coming from him as one could imagine put me in under an unbearable amount of pressure but I knew that I was BORN to play Teddy Pendergrass,” the post continued.

“I’m very very sure this will all be figured out… Everyone in Hollywood will tell you bio-pics are some of the MOST challenging films to try and make because there are so many “Narratives” and nuances that go into creating magic…. Really no surprises here… I owe it to my mother and Teddy to get this done!! Whatever it takes this Teddy Movie will happen.”

by Daniel Johnson

September 30, 2023

Steph Curry Or Magic Johnson: Basketball’s Great Debate Heats Up As Legends Battle For GOAT Status

The debate over the greatest basketball player continues to fuel debates, evident in the response of Earvin “Magic” Johnson to Stephen Curry’s self-assessment as the greatest point guard in basketball history.

During an episode of Gilbert Arenas’ podcast Gil’s Arena, Arenas asked Curry about his position among point guards, prompting a nuanced response from Curry compared to his earlier remarks on the overall GOAT in August. Curry acknowledged his own standing in the conversation, alongside Magic Johnson, recognizing the latter’s remarkable career achievements.

Curry said, “Yes, it’s me and Magic [Johnson]. Is that the conversation? Obviously I have to answer myself. But to your point, Magic Johnson’s résumé is ridiculous. So the fact that we’re even having that conversation is a place that I never thought I’d be in.”

Johnson heard Curry’s comments and responded on his appearance on the Zach Gelb Show. Even though Gelb was careful to note that Curry was respectful of Magic, the elder statesman listed off all of his accomplishments.

“Well, do the numbers say that, Zach?” Johnson asked pointedly. “If he got more than five [NBA Finals] championships, if he got more than three Finals MVPs and three league MVPs, then he’s the greatest. Is he? If he got more than number one in assists all-time in the Finals, number two in double-doubles, number one in triple-doubles… If he got more than all those things, then he’s the best. But the last time I checked, he doesn’t. But everybody has to decide for themselves who the best is.”

Michael Jordan chimed into the debate of Magic versus Curry that First Take had back in August 2023.

Jordan sent a text message to Stephen A. Smith at 5:54 a.m., discussing what he believes to be the criteria for the greatest point guard to ever play in the NBA.

“Good morning, sir. Although greatest of anything is always a debate, I beg to differ on greatest point guard of all-time and what you said,” Jordan texted. “Magic Johnson is easily the best point guard of all-time. Steph Curry is very close, but not in front of Magic. You must define point guard to really have a serious debate. Steph Curry is by far the best shooter of all time.”

For context, Smith said previously that he believes that Curry is the greatest point guard to ever play the game and His Airness wanted to let him know that there are indeed levels to this.

The GOAT conversation extended to the WNBA in 2021 as the league celebrated its 25th season. The fans who voted crowned Diana Taurausi as the greatest player the league has ever seen. That decision and the choice by the league to give her an actual award has caused some fans to bristle. Players of the past, like Cynthia Cooper, who both paved the way for the WNBA and achieved basketball’s rarest feat, the 4-peat (four consecutive championships), do not often receive their just due because of recency bias. Similar to the debate in men’s professional basketball about the GOAT or even just positional GOAT’s, the debate about who the greatest basketball player is to ever touch the hardwood will probably still be raging another hundred years from now.