(Atlanta Business Chronicle) Atlanta Hawks CEO Steve Koonin handed control of the team over to the Grammy Award-nominated rap star Tauheed "2 Chainz" Epps in a series of promotional videos.
The Atlanta Hawks and 2 Chainz have partnered to promote his new rap label, The Real University (T.R.U.), at Philips Arena when the Hawks face off against the Miami Heat on March 27. And in a series of promotion videos, the Atlanta-based rapper is featured as the CEO.
"Mr. Koonin left me in charge," 2 Chainz said in the video. " I don't know if you know who I am, but I'm 2 Chainz. There are going to be some major changes around here, buddy. Truuuuue."
The Hawks said they will release one video each day this week outlining his proposed changes on the Hawks' Facebook page.
The College Park, Ga. native will perform three times Friday night, beginning with a pregame show which will lead into a special version of player introductions with Hawks PA Announcer Ryan Cameron. 2 Chainz will return to the court for a halftime performance and a post-game concert.
"As an Atlantan, I'm excited to collaborate with my beloved Hawks on March 27 as they face off against the Miami Heat," 2 Chainz said in a statement. "The Hawks have been 'TRU to Atlanta' this season so it's only right that we come out to support."
The Hawks said 2 Chainz will have a major in-arena presence as soon as the doors open at 6:00 p.m., as the first 5,000 fans to arrive will be given copies of his latest mixtape, "T.R.U. Jack City," upon entering the building. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase unique 2 Chainz-inspired Hawks gear from Hawks Shop inside the arena. Additionally, the "I'm Different" rapper will be featured in original Hawks productions to be aired in Philips Arena during the game.
"We could not be more excited to partner with 2 Chainz, an Atlanta-bred superstar who has been one of the team's biggest supporters and always remained 'True to Atlanta,'" Hawks and Philips Arena CEO Steve Koonin said in a statement. "Working with Chainz is a perfect fit for our organization as we continue to attract an increasingly diverse, millennial fan base that values great entertainment both on and off the court."
Friday's tipoff for is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
