Sports, fashion, entertainment, media, and entrepreneurship collided at the inaugural 2026 Power Player Suite in New York City. The event featured many familiar faces from the world of entertainment, including the legendary group Cult Jam, Ralph Carter (Good Times), Monifah (R&B Divas), Carl Anthony Payne II (Martin & The Cosby Show), and DJ Chuck Chillout (WBLS), among others. The highlight of the event was a live performance of “Basketball” by Kurtis Blow for attendees.
The event was presented by Hungerford Management Group, led by Dana Hicks-Hungerford and Brian Hungerford, in partnership with MNS Media Group, led by Ernest Jackson. Cornita Cole and Dannielle Brown supported the event production with Hungerford Management Group.
Our own Kelsey Nicole Nelson, who serves as a senior reporter and host in addition to leading the Listen In With KNN team, hosted the star-studded event. Autumn Joi of WLIT 106 Radio kicked off the event on the unforgettable red carpet, speaking with celebrities, athletes, entertainers, designers, and influencers in attendance.
Attendees had an array of interactive brand activations that included the following brands: Dam Good CBD, NEM Sneakers, RYZE Superfoods (Mushroom Coffee), E’thal LVI Vodka, LaMar Beard & Body Oil, Iconek Films, the executive producers of When Fatal Attraction Hit Home and Bedridden. Additional partners include StinkBalm, SY Aesthetics, Natalia Megan Beauty, Holla Back Curls, Curly Chic, Sheri Pierre of Cosmic Glow, Chef Stacey, The June Plum Table, and Chef CiCi Li.
Handcrafted cocktails were provided by E’thal LVI Vodka, quickly becoming a favorite among guests who savored the premium vodka’s flavorful blends while networking and celebrating with other attendees.
Chef Stacey of The June Plum Table served a culinary experience of Jamaican curry and jerk wings with peas and rice. Many guests returned for a second helping of the authentic Caribbean cuisine, praising the food as a standout of the night’s experiences.
The “Legend Award” was presented to legendary sports broadcaster, actress, and trailblazer Jayne Kennedy, who was unable to attend in person. Kennedy accepted the award through a special on-screen appearance, thanking the Power Player Suite for the prestigious honor. A video of Kennedy’s groundbreaking career was played for attendees, who responded with thunderous applause. Nelson had also previously presented an award to Kennedy when she was awarded by the National Association of Black Journalists Sports Task Force at the 2025 Sam Lacy Pioneer Awards in Cleveland.
Official DJ Nephew kept the energy high throughout the night. Hip hop pioneer Kurtis Blow was at the event to accept the Salute to the Game Award, surprising guests with an impromptu live performance of his legendary anthem, Basketball.
Celebrity designer Kenny Kas accepted the Fashion Icon Award before unveiling an exclusive collaboration with legendary brand FUBU. Models Yassie Thompson, Ianta Dos Santos, and Patty Singh showcased the latest collections of Kenny Kas and FUBU, with Getty Images capturing the presentation.
FUBU co-founders J. Alexander Martin and Keith Perrin were also honored at the event, taking home the “Legends of Fashion Award.” Boxing champion Franchón “The Heavy Hitting Diva” Crews-Dezurn received the “Undisputed Excellence Award.”
The “Hometown Hero Award” was given to community leader Andrew Council for his unwavering commitment to serving his community.
The event was so successful in large part due to the contributions of the many photographers, videographers, bloggers, radio personalities, television crews, digital creators, and journalists who attended. The event amplifies the Power Player Suite’s mission of celebrating excellence while connecting brands, talent, and culture.
Sheen Magazine, the Official Media Sponsor, and The Emerald Booth are responsible for helping preserve the unforgettable moments made by attendees throughout the night.
The Power Player Suite was established as a premier destination where sports, fashion, entertainment, media, and entrepreneurship can come together to create authentic connections and lasting opportunities.
Planning is underway for the Power Player Suite: New York Fashion Week Edition, following the success of the inaugural event, expected to arrive in February 2027 as an even greater celebration of style, innovation, and culture. To learn more, visit the Power Player Suite on instagram.
Photos by Dymond Scoby and KenThePhotographer.
Digital and Editorial Summer intern for Listen in with KNN.