November 7th, 2024

Mo’Nique’s new ‘Houston Equalizers’ brings professional co-ed basketball to Bayou City

HOUSTON — Academy Award-winning actress and comedian Mo’Nique and her husband, Sidney Hicks, are reppin’ Houston in a major way while adding sports team owners to their repertoire. The ‘Precious’ Best Supporting Actress Oscar holder visited the Bayou City to announce the couple is the new owner of the “Houston Equalizers,” part of the Global Mixed Gender Basketball League (GMGB).

The announcement was made at a press conference, which was attended by city and business leaders, in addition to other prominent figures, in early March at the Galleria area Grotto Restaurant.

On behalf of Mayor Sylvester Turner, legendary Houston sports journalist Kim Davis presented Mo’Nique with an official proclamation, naming March 10, 2020, “Houston Equalizers Day.”

“Though I’m from Baltimore, Maryland, when I got started in my comedy career, whether I was at a little bar in Houston or big stages, y’all always showed up,” Mo’Nique said.

The comedian recalled that nearly 15 years ago, while pregnant with twins and touring in Houston, she stopped in the middle of her routine and told the audience she just couldn’t go any further due to discomfort. To her surprise, she received that true H-Town love as the audience rose to its feet with thunderous applause, telling her to go take care of herself and her babies, not complaining or seeking any refunds.

That type of love is why she fought others, beating VH1 reality star Tami Roman, to become the owner of the Houston team.

“Houston is my home because y’all don’t treat me like a celebrity, nor do you treat me like I’m famous. You treat me like I’m yours,” Mo’Nique said.

The couple now joins a growing list of other GMGB celebrity owners, including Master P., president and owner of the New Orleans Gators; Tiny Harris, owner of the Atlanta Heirs; Ice T, owner of the New York Knights; Trina and Trick Daddy, owners of Miami Ballers; Lauren Govan, owner of Chicago Vikings and Anwan Glover, owner of the Washington Fusion. Tentatively, Roman will own the LA Breeze and Melody and Markel Holt will become the owners of the Alabama Rockets.

GMGB is focusing on keeping “equality” in the forefront, being the first professional co-ed basketball league combining both NBA and WNBA players.

Mo’Nique is all about equality, clearly illustrated in her recent battle with Netflix, and says, with her team, “losing is not an option so watch out.”

The teams play full court basketball. In the first quarter, three women and two men play, and in the second quarter, three men and two women play. The lineup will alternate each quarter. The halftime shows are guaranteed to be full of surprises.

Sidney and Mo’Nique, the proud parents of four children, love how the new league brings the entire family into the fold of basketball. They stress the importance of joy, laughter and fun on and off the court.

James Scott, CEO of GMGB, says he was excited for the ink to dry on the deal adding the Houston Equalizers to the league.

“Houston is a basketball mecca, but you’ve never seen anything like we’re bringing,” Scott said. “We have something here that is unique. I’m not a basketball player, but I said to myself, ‘Why aren’t women and men playing together?’ And everybody thought I was crazy, and when I said I was going to start a league, they thought I was real crazy. ”

Despite the doubters, Scott moved forward with making his dream a reality and Monique, he says, is passionate about this endeavor.

“She already has the Equalettes – the co-ed cheerleaders- and we’ve already put together their uniforms,” Scott added.

Master P and Tiny, in the competitive spirit, say they are coming after Mo’Nique, but she’s not worried. In fact, like Tiffany Haddish says, “#SheReady!!!”

Scott shared that on the day Kobe Bryant died, they were in talks with the Lakers legend that morning about him getting involved with GMGB, in which he fully supported. Bryant’s beloved daughter GiGi, who perished with him in a tragic helicopter crash, was a rising female basketball star.

The league is dedicated to making sure women have a seat at the table.

“Most of my staff are women because they’ve been working the hardest,” Scott playfully said. “This is something that we are going to make happen. This is ours and we are coming strong!”

Tryouts for the basketball and cheerleading teams will be held in April.

For more information, visit www.GlobalMixedGenderBasketball.com.

 

 

 

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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