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Lil Durk, the renowned American rapper, is making waves beyond the world of hip-hop as he partners with STARRY, PepsiCo’s refreshing lemon-lime soda brand, to provide a life-changing opportunity for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Through a basketball skills competition dubbed STARRY Fizz Fest, Lil Durk is empowering HBCU students to vie for a chance to win a whopping $333,000 in scholarships.
With Lil Durk’s star power and STARRY’s commitment to supporting educational endeavors, the collaboration has garnered attention for its innovative approach to bridging music, sports, and academia. The competition, held across four esteemed HBCUs—Norfolk State University, Hampton University, Jackson State University, and Morgan State University—has created a buzz within the student community and beyond.
For Lil Durk, the initiative is about more than just providing financial assistance; it’s about inspiring and motivating the next generation of leaders. Making a surprise appearance at Jackson State University, the rapper seized the opportunity to connect with students firsthand and share words of encouragement.
“I was excited about everything, especially the engagement with the students. We popped up at one of the colleges to surprise them and made it a big thing,” Lil Durk shared with ForbesBLK. “I was also excited to give them motivation and hope because it drives me too. We’re on the same team and can inspire one another.”
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Born and raised in Chicago, a city renowned for its passion for basketball, Lil Durk’s love for the sport runs deep. Drawing parallels between his musical prowess and his affinity for basketball, he sees both as avenues for self-expression and personal growth.
“Everyone has different talents and basketball is one of mine. I’m from Chicago where basketball is prevalent and that’s where my passion really started,” Lil Durk explained. “The opportunity to combine music with sports and play with different rappers, athletes, and basketball players is fun.”
Reflecting on his own journey, Lil Durk emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication in pursuing one’s dreams. Despite facing challenges in his pursuit of basketball, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his craft—a lesson he hopes to impart to aspiring students.
“Growing up, I couldn’t make a basketball team to save my life. So that just lets you know never to give up and practice your talent no matter what it is,” Lil Durk shared. “If it makes you happy, that’s what it is. Even if you don’t make it to the NBA or college, sticking to what you do and believe in will work out for you in the end.”
With Lil Durk’s guidance and STARRY’s support, HBCU students are not only competing for scholarships but also gaining valuable insights into resilience, determination, and the power of community. As the competition heats up and the stakes grow higher, the impact of this collaborative effort resonates far beyond the basketball court, offering a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
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