During NBA All-Star Week, the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival (HBCUFLF) delivered a standout cultural moment with a packed celebration at the Maybourne Beverly Hills honoring the “25th anniversary of Love & Basketball.” The special gathering brought together influential voices across film, sports, and media to spotlight the film’s enduring legacy and the evolution of women’s representation both on screen and in athletics.
The evening paid tribute to director Gina Prince-Bythewood and her groundbreaking impact on storytelling. Moderated by Laura Coates, the conversation featured Prince-Bythewood alongside actress Sanaa Lathan and an esteemed panel including WNBA icon Candace Parker, basketball legend Cheryl Miller, journalist Cari Champion, and pioneering sports broadcaster Jayne Kennedy.
Together, they reflected on the film’s cultural resonance and its powerful role in broadening visibility for women athletes and reshaping narratives in sports and entertainment.
In a heartfelt moment, Cari Champion honored the women who paved the way: “Thank you, Jayne Kennedy, for paving the way for every woman on this stage.” She also acknowledged journalist and cultural commentator Jemele Hill, who was in attendance, for continuing to lead important conversations around sports and representation.
The VIP audience included Vanessa Bell Calloway, Loni Love, Erika Ringor, and Tia Beauchamp, among others, underscoring the event’s dynamic intersection of culture, community, and industry leadership.
With support from CNN, TNT Sports, Black Girl Vitamins, OWN, Visit East Point, and Warner Bros. Discovery, the event highlighted the strength and resilience of creative communities while fostering meaningful dialogue across film, sports, and media.
Looking ahead, submissions for the 2026 HBCU First LOOK Film Challenge opened on February 12, 2026, and will remain open through August 28, 2026.
