It was a mash-up of entertainment and professional sports in New York, Monday night. The first-ever NBA Awards went down — and it was definitely entertaining. Here’s a look at some of the slam dunks and missed shots.
Drake: “There’s a lot of superstars in this building!”
The NBA Awards recognized some of the greatest players in the NBA last night. The bash was televised live from New York City.
Drake: “It’s the city that never sleeps, mostly ’cause everyone’s afraid of being traded.”
Rap superstar Drake hosted the big event, cracking jokes and having fun with the players.
Drake: “Gucci wore this last night at the BET Awards.”
Drake also brought the funny — with an assist from Will Ferrell. The two played handshake coaches.
Drake: “We’ve seen a lot of great plays, but…”
Will Ferrell: “Your handshakes aren’t worth dog crap!”
“Inside the NBA” hosts Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal traded shots.
Charles Barkley: “I’m losing weight. Everybody knows that.”
Shaquille O’Neal: “You were eating a Krispy Kreme omelet.”
After awards were handed out for Best Dunk and Rookie of the Year, 2 Chainz warmed up the crowd, and Nicki Minaj made a grand entrance.
Nicki Minaj: (rapping) “Me and my amigos not offset, got them upset.”
She eventually did some dance moves — and left James Harden pretty stunned.
The MVP Award went to Russell Westbrook, who gave an emotional speech.
Russell Westbrook: “I told myself I wasn’t gonna cry but…”
Even Taylor Swift chimed in via Twitter!
Taylor Swift: “You’re the MVP. I’m so happy for you. I remember the first time you beat me at basketball, and I was very upset, and you said, ‘You just have to shake it off,’ and I got an idea.”
The NBA Awards survived its rookie year. Looks like the show will be back for the win next year.
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