Ballin for Lupus

How do you get the coolest athletes in the country in one room? You create competition with a cause.

Bo Talley Williams and game host “The Voice of DFW” with the celebrity players. Click here for the full roster

The 10th annual Ballin for Lupus Luvs Foundation Charity Basketball Game -created by  Bo Talley and Coach Fred Williams- was held at The Epic in Grand Prairie last weekend. The event opened with the purple carpet, where the honorees of the event (those battling lupus and organizations aimed to support research for lupus) got to show off their fabulous outfits and speak about their experiences. The purple carpet also featured the night’s competitors – a celebrity lineup of WNBA players, NCAA champions, newscasters, and other noteworthy women.

Emphasis on women. The whole event was intentionally hosted, organized, and performed by powerful ladies “ to inspire and empower women while highlighting the importance of unity in raising awareness for Lupus”

But the players weren’t the only hard hitters. The event was stacked with talented entertainment. Previous The Voice contestant Cassandra Robertson performed the national anthem, followed by a rendition of the Negro National anthem by Crishelle White. During half-time, White got behind the keys with her band Audacity and got the whole stadium to their feet. Even the athletes joined in for an impromptu halftime show!

Unity seemed to be the theme of the night. Compliments and smiles were given freely, and gratitude was overflowing. During halftime, Bo Talley Williams gave out personal awards to the honorees and people that make an impact in our community.

It was a close game, but the Purple Team (coached by Tiffany Archibald and Jokiva Bellard) took the trophy for the 10th year in a row!

The real achievement was the overwhelming united effort to uplift and aid those with lupus, coupled with the acknowledgment of amazing women with a heart for the community.

Vandella Menifee, recipient of the Elendora Talley Fennell Community Service Award, says it best.

“I AM… Grateful for an opportunity to be in a space where women are inspiring women! I AM… Thankful for being a part of helping change lives and bringing awareness to Lupus in an exciting way! I AM… Humbled by being the recipient of this Community Service Award celebrating 10 years in the community bringing UNITY!”

This event was surrounded by love, laughter, and community… and I can’t wait to do it again next year.

Author: Ania Hodges