Kawhi Lenorad is showing his love for the “6.” In a nine-minute clip released Wednesday on YouTube, Leonard sat down for the team’s documentary series “Open Gym.” He touched on several subjects, including his notoriously elusive legacy. “I’m not really championship chasing. … I didn’t want to put on a thousand jerseys,” Leonard said in the video. “This city took a liking to my family, and I took a liking to this city. I really liked it. My son was born here, and he’s been asking me forever when he’s going to come back. Now he’s back, and he’s able to see it rather than me tell him the great stories that happened.” “This city always gave me love and showed support from everybody. I’m happy that they love what I did here,” Leonard added. “I gave this city everything. I was coming in that year injured, and I just gave them my all.” “Hopefully they embrace me back and (I) give them all again, and we can make something special happen once again.” In his single season with the Toronto Raptors (2018–19), Kawhi Leonard delivered one of the most dominant individual playoff runs in NBA history. Averaging a career-high 26.6 points during the regular season, he elevated his game in the postseason to average 30.5 points and 9.1 rebounds over 24 playoff games. He capped the run by leading Toronto to its first-ever NBA championship and securing his second career Finals MVP award. At the center of the Clippers’ notorious salary-cap scandal was Leonard, whose involvement earned him a $700,000 league fine. He reeived no additional suspension or penalty. The Clippers, however, paid a far steeper price, forfeiting five first-round draft picks. Having agreed to trade for Leonard on June 30, the Raptors immediately froze the deal pending the outcome of the NBA’s probe. They couldn’t risk the league nullifying his contract, which would have meant losing Leonard along with the players and draft picks they surrendered to get him.
Drake Says “Pray For Gaza” In New FOMO Short-Film
Hip-Hop star Drake has given fans another unreleased track to dissect, and one lyric is already drawing attention. The biggest name in hip-hop previewed the song during FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), his hour-long short film released Sept. 15. The project features previously unheard music and several high-profile collaborations. DRAKE DEDICATES NEW SONG FOR PALESTINIANS IN ‘PRAY FOR GAZA’ pic.twitter.com/nAcw1dClZc — RT (@RT_com) September 16, 2026 Around the 17:47 mark, Drake delivers the phrase “Pray for Gaza” over a dancehall-influenced production. The moment lasts only briefly, but it has quickly become one of FOMO’s most discussed musical details. Drake has not announced an official title for the track. He also has not confirmed plans for a standalone release. The meaning behind the lyric remains unclear. Complex noted that “Gaza” could reference the Gaza Strip and the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Palestinians. Drake Honors Palestinians With Unreleased Track, “Pray For Gaza,” In New Short Film, FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) The word also carries significance within Jamaican dancehall. Vybz Kartel’s Portmore movement has long used Gaza as an identifying name. That connection adds another possible interpretation to Drake’s lyric. His longstanding admiration for dancehall and relationship with Kartel have also shaped the conversation. Still, Drake has previously addressed the Israel-Gaza conflict through his public actions. In 2023, he signed the Artists4Ceasefire open letter. The letter called for de-escalation and a ceasefire involving Gaza and Israel. Drake’s longtime producer, Noah “40” Shebib, later discussed the decision with Rolling Stone MENA. “He asked if Drake would and I went to talk to him and the team,” Shebib said. “That simple really.” That history offers context, but it does not confirm Drake’s intended meaning. For now, “pray for Gaza” remains open to interpretation. FOMO arrives during Drizzy’s broader ICEMAN era. The film also showcases his continued movement between rap, R&B and dancehall. The project gives listeners a glimpse at music Drake has yet to formally release. Whether “Pray For Gaza” eventually becomes an official track remains unknown. For now, the brief lyric has done what The 6 God’s surprise releases often accomplish. It has given listeners another mystery to unpack.
Daphne Joy Responds After Brittany Renner Disses Her
Daphne Joy is standing by her views on relationships after Brittany Renner appeared to take aim at women who expect men to provide for them. The model and content creator addressed Renner’s remarks in a video response. Joy made it clear she has never hidden her preference for being cared for by her partner. “That could never be you, and I love that for you,” Joy said. “I, on the other hand, have never been shy to admit that I absolutely love when my man takes care of me.” “And I love taking care of my man,” she added. Daphne Joy responds after Brittany Renner takes shots at her. pic.twitter.com/BrpDTawhOy — Final Boss Jay (@FinalBossJay) September 15, 2026 Joy’s response arrives after Renner seemingly criticized the idea of women openly discussing financial support from men. Renner has built a reputation for candid conversations about dating, relationships and motherhood. The exchange places both women in a familiar hip-hop conversation. Social media has become a battleground for debates about dating expectations, gender roles and money. Joy, however, framed her position around reciprocity. She said accepting support from a partner does not mean she refuses to return that energy. 50 Cent’s BM & Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Ex Daphne Joy Fires Back At Brittany Renner’s Recent Comments The model has remained connected to hip-hop through her past relationships. She shares a son, Sire Jackson, with rapper and business mogul 50 Cent. Joy has also been linked to Sean “Diddy” Combs, adding another prominent name from hip-hop to her public dating history. Her relationships have frequently placed her personal life under intense scrutiny. Renner has faced similar attention throughout her career. The controversial model and content creator has frequently addressed relationships and personal experiences with her audience. Neither woman appears to be backing away from her position. Instead, their exchange has reignited a broader conversation about what partners should expect from one another. For Joy, the answer centers on mutual care. She wants a relationship where receiving support and providing support can exist together. Her latest comments make clear she has no plans to soften that stance. Meanwhile, Renner’s apparent criticism has given Joy another opportunity to explain her perspective. Their exchange has quickly become another social media debate involving two outspoken personalities.
Laila Ali Responds to Claressa Shields Fight Talk
Laila Ali once again addressed the persistent rumors of a potential super-fight against multi-division champion Claressa Shields, maintaining that a return to the ring is strictly a matter of financial logistics. During a recent interview, Ali dismissed the idea that public callouts or verbal challenges would be enough to tempt her out of retirement. The daughter of the late Muhammad Ali emphasized that she remains unmoved by the social media spectacle that has surrounded the proposed matchup for nearly a decade. “Not just anybody can make me an offer,” Ali said during the radio interview. “You actually have to have the money.” The friction between the two legendary fighters began as early as 2018 when Shields expressed frustration over comments Ali made regarding the state of women’s boxing. The tension escalated in 2020 when Ali first hinted that the right opponent and a significant payday could lure her back to the squared circle. By 2025, Ali set a specific price tag on her return, indicating that a bout would require a purse between $15 million and $20 million. Shields quickly countered by claiming her team had secured $15 million and publicly showcased an oversized check featuring Ali’s name to signal her readiness to fight. Shields has previously accused Ali of avoiding the contest, but Ali has consistently pushed back against these claims. The undefeated former champion said she will only respond to serious business proposals that meet her valuation, rather than reacting to what she views as publicity stunts. Ali, who retired in 2007 with a perfect 24-0 record, has built a successful career as an entrepreneur and television personality in the years since hanging up her gloves.
Coi Leray Details Feud With Latto & Fight With Her Sister, Brooklyn In New Interview
Coi Leray is sharing new details about an alleged physical altercation involving Latto’s sister, Brooklyn Nikole, amid her longstanding feud with the rapper. Leray discussed the confrontation during a preview of The Jason Lee Show. The full episode is set to premiere Sept. 16 at 8 a.m. ET on BET’s YouTube channel. During her conversation with host Jason Lee, Leray acknowledged that she “swung first” during the encounter. She claimed Brooklyn then stepped in and injured her knee. Coi Leray reveals her and Latto’s sister Brooklyn fought after she swung on her. pic.twitter.com/oxrjnDVHUJ — Rap Alert (@rapalert6) September 16, 2026 The revelation adds another layer to Leray’s complicated history with Latto. Their public tension dates back to 2023, after a lyric referenced a blunt described as being “big as Coi Leray.” The line sparked speculation and social media discussion surrounding the two rappers. Their feud has periodically resurfaced through music, interviews and online exchanges. Leray’s latest comments shift attention toward Brooklyn, who she says became involved after the initial exchange. The account has since prompted renewed reactions from fans across social media. Coi Leray Tells Jason Lee About Her Feud With Rapper Latto & Fight With Brooklyn Nikole In New Tell-All Interview Some questioned the circumstances surrounding Brooklyn’s involvement. Others pointed to Leray’s admission that she initiated the physical confrontation. Brooklyn’s reported height has also become part of the online conversation. Social media users have cited claims that Latto’s sister stands approximately 6-foot-5. Neither Brooklyn nor Latto is quoted in the preview regarding Leray’s account. As a result, Leray’s description represents her version of what happened. Lee, meanwhile, used the interview to explore a story that has followed Leray throughout her ongoing career. His conversation with the rapper provides additional context surrounding the feud and alleged altercation. The Jason Lee Show is known for candid conversations with entertainers and other public figures. Leray’s appearance gives her an opportunity to discuss the confrontation in greater detail. The full interview is expected to provide more context when it premieres. For now, Leray’s account has reignited interest in her relationship with Latto and the alleged encounter involving Brooklyn.
Tyler Perry Explains Why He Won’t Be Getting Married
Tyler Perry has no plans to walk down the aisle anytime soon. The filmmaker recently opened up about marriage while promoting his latest film, “Why Did I Get Married Again?” The Netflix sequel revisits relationships, commitment and the complications that can come with marriage. Perry, 57, addressed his own views on marriage during an appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show.” When asked whether he would ever get married, his response was immediate. “Nope,” Perry said. He then explained that marriage itself is not what concerns him. Instead, he worries about what could happen if a marriage ends in divorce. “It’s not the marriage that bothers me, it’s the divorce,” Perry said. Perry Has Seen Divorce Change People’s Finances Perry said his perspective comes partly from watching successful people experience major financial losses after divorce. “Everybody that I know, that did well, and went broke, it was because of a divorce,” he said. The filmmaker added that he is comfortable with his current situation. “So, I’m good just being free,” Perry said. His comments offer an interesting contrast to his career. Perry has spent decades building stories around love, marriage and relationships. His “Why Did I Get Married?” franchise is one of his most recognizable examples. The original film debuted in 2007 and followed four married couples confronting problems within their relationships. A sequel, “Why Did I Get Married Too?,” followed in 2010. The latest installment arrived on Netflix in September. “Why Did I Get Married Again?” reunites several original cast members while introducing a new generation of characters. The film centers on the wedding of Marcus and Angela’s daughter. The celebration brings the familiar couples back together and creates new relationship complications. Perry stars alongside Taraji P. Henson, Janet Jackson, Jill Scott and other returning cast members. His Personal Life Looks Different From His Movie Stories Perry has never been married, though he previously shared a long-term relationship with model and filmmaker Gelila Bekele. The former couple began dating years ago and welcomed their son, Aman, in 2014. Perry and Bekele ended their romantic relationship in 2020. They have continued to co-parent their son. Perry has previously spoken about the importance of giving Aman a grounded childhood. He and Bekele have worked together to prevent their son’s upbringing from being defined by Perry’s wealth. In a 2024 interview with PEOPLE, Perry discussed watching Aman play soccer. He described fatherhood as one of the purest sources of joy in his life. Perry’s latest comments also arrive during a period of personal reflection. He recently revealed plans to move to Puerto Rico with Aman in early 2027. Perry said he wants to slow down professionally and spend more time with his son. “Getting older [inspired this],” Perry said during an interview with “Today with Jenna & Sheinelle.” “It’s time to slow down a bit, enjoy more time with my son and just take it all in.” For now, marriage does not appear to be part of that next chapter. Perry has built a career portraying complicated relationships on screen. Off screen, however, he seems comfortable choosing independence. And if his latest comments are any indication, he has no interest in changing that anytime soon.
Chris Brown Apologizes To Rep. Jasmine Crockett For Backlash
R&B superstar Chris Brown is addressing the backlash surrounding Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s decision to honor his musical legacy. The R&B superstar shared an Instagram Story Monday, Sept. 14, featuring a photo of himself embracing the Texas Democrat onstage. The moment came after Crockett recognized Brown and Usher during The R&B Tour’s stop at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Saturday, Sept. 12. Chris Brown via IG story with a message for Jasmine Crockett: “I apologize for any backlash you have to deal with for awarding me.” this was beautiful . pic.twitter.com/2qAosb2ch9 — 𝖍𝖊𝖑𝖔 (@hwloiza) September 15, 2026 Crockett presented the artists with Congressional Record recognition for their contributions to music. She described the moment as a celebration of “Black joy” before recognizing Brown onstage. The tribute quickly sparked criticism because of Brown’s history of legal issues. Critics pointed to his 2009 guilty plea to felony assault involving Rihanna. His more recent legal troubles have also remained part of the public conversation surrounding his career. Brown appeared to acknowledge that scrutiny while thanking Crockett for the recognition. “Thank you so much . I apologize for any backlash you have to deal with for awarding me. I’m not political but I move off of frequency and energy and I’m so grateful. ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU.” R&B Singer Chris Brown Apologizes To Rep. Jasmine Crockett For Backlash Over Congressional Recognition Honor In Dallas His response does not directly engage his critics. Instead, Brown centers his appreciation for Crockett and the recognition. The singer’s statement also draws a line between the honor and politics. By saying he is “not political,” Brown suggests he viewed the moment through his connection to music and the energy surrounding the celebration. His apology also recognizes the position Crockett now faces. Brown acknowledges that the backlash could extend beyond him and affect the congresswoman who presented the honor. Crockett’s appearance became a major talking point after the sold-out Arlington concert. She joined Texas state Rep. Venton Jones and producer RoccStar for the presentation. For Brown, however, the message remained centered on gratitude. Rather than defend his past or debate the criticism, he thanked Crockett again. His response leaves the broader controversy surrounding the recognition intact. The moment ultimately placed Brown’s R&B legacy and personal history in the same spotlight. Crockett celebrated his musical contributions, while Brown acknowledged the backlash that followed. His final words made his position clear: “ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU.”
Lil Durk Addresses Youth Following Murder-For-Hire Acquittal
Lil Durk issued a passionate plea for personal transformation to his young fans Tuesday, just days after a federal jury in Los Angeles acquitted him of all charges in a high-profile murder-for-hire trial. The artist, whose legal name is Durk Banks, took to social media to share a video showcasing his philanthropic efforts and community outreach. In a written statement, the Chicago native reflected on his own struggles and urged the next generation to resist the negative influences of their environments. “To the youth, I need y’all to hear me,” Durk said. Lil Durk Speaks: “There were times in my life when I felt lost and couldn’t see beyond what was right in front of me. I know how deeply your environment and surroundings can influence the way you think, the choices you make, and what you believe is possible for your life, but they don’t have to determine who you become.” The acquittal follows a complex legal battle involving a 2022 shooting that authorities alleged targeted rival rapper Quando Rondo. Despite the not guilty verdict in this specific case, the rapper remains in federal custody. He is currently awaiting a separate trial scheduled for October 5, which involves federal racketeering and firearms charges. Banks has long maintained a public commitment to social improvement through his Neighborhood Heroes Foundation. The organization focuses on career readiness and providing professional opportunities for individuals in underserved Chicago communities. In his Tuesday message, he emphasized that his work with the foundation is a long-term commitment. “Growth is real, and it’s never too late to choose a different direction,” Banks said. He added that his primary responsibility is to use his massive platform to motivate others and build opportunities that he did not have during his own upbringing. Legal experts suggest the acquittal is a significant victory for the rapper, though the upcoming racketeering trial presents another substantial legal hurdle. The rapper concluded his message by encouraging his followers to prioritize their futures and their families. “Choose your future. Choose your family. Choose growth. I’m standing with y’all. We’re moving forward with purpose,” Banks said. The rapper’s legal team has expressed confidence ahead of the October proceedings, while supporters continue to point toward his community initiatives as evidence of his character. View this post on Instagram
Method Man To Play Rapper Suing AI Studio On CBS’s “Cupertino”
Wu-Tang Clan rapper Clifford “Method Man” Smith is taking his talents back to television. This time, he’s stepping into the AI music debate. The rapper and actor will guest star in CBS’ upcoming legal drama “Cupertino,” where he plays Yungwood, a rapper fighting an artificial intelligence music studio over his shrinking streaming revenue. Yungwood’s battle hits close to home for musicians navigating an industry increasingly shaped by technology. His lawsuit challenges a company he believes is profiting while hurting his music career. View this post on Instagram “Cupertino” premieres Oct. 8 on CBS and airs Thursdays. The series follows lawyers taking on powerful Silicon Valley companies accused of exploiting people. Mike Colter stars as a lawyer whose former employer withholds his stock options. After losing his job, he teams with another fired attorney, played by Rachel Keller. Together, they represent clients challenging the tech industry’s most powerful figures. Method Man of The Wu-Tang Clan Set To Appear On CBS’s Cupertino As A Rapper Suing AI Music Studio Method Man’s appearance comes as AI continues reshaping music. Artists have raised concerns about AI-generated recordings, digital replicas, unauthorized voices and compensation. Smith knows both sides of the entertainment business. He built his reputation as a founding member of Wu-Tang Clan before expanding into film and television. He starred as attorney David MacLean in all four seasons of Starz’s “Power Book II: Ghost.” His performance opposite Mary J. Blige earned four consecutive NAACP Image Awards. Earlier this year, Smith appeared alongside Kelly Rowland in Amazon MGM Studios’ romantic comedy “Relationship Goals.” His acting résumé also includes “How High,” “Garden State” and “Soul Plane.” He reunited with longtime collaborator Redman for Fox’s “Method & Red,” where they played fictional versions of themselves. “Cupertino” comes from Robert and Michelle King, the creators behind “The Good Wife,” “The Good Fight,” “Evil” and “Elsbeth.” The cast also includes Ella Stiller, Busy Philipps, Renée Elise Goldsberry and Nik Dodani. Now, Method Man is bringing his hip-hop perspective to another fight. In “Cupertino,” the stakes involve artists, artificial intelligence and who gets paid when technology changes the game.
Yella Beezy’s Murder-For-Hire Trial Delayed To Oct. 26
A Dallas judge has rescheduled rapper Yella Beezy’s capital murder trial for Oct. 26, giving defense attorneys additional time to prepare. Yella Beezy, whose real name is Markies Conway, had been scheduled to begin jury selection Monday. Judge Chika Anyiam granted Conway’s motion for continuance and set jury selection for Oct. 26, 2026. State of TX v. @YellaBeezy214: Yella Beezy’s Mur-For-Hire Trial has been rescheduled to begin with jury selection on October 26, 2026, with Judge Chika Anyiam presiding. The granted motion of continuance, signed by Judge Chika Anyiam, and new date were filed with the Dallas… pic.twitter.com/Uo5zbCRCcN — Bryson “Boom” Paul (@brysonboompaul) September 14, 2026 The order was filed with the Dallas County Clerk on Monday, Sept. 14. Anyiam will preside over the proceedings. Conway faces a capital murder charge stemming from the 2020 killing of Dallas rapper MO3, whose real name was Melvin Noble. Prosecutors allege Conway arranged Noble’s killing by hiring Kewon White. They contend the alleged murder stemmed from a longstanding dispute between the two rappers. Noble was fatally shot during an ambush on Interstate 35 in Dallas. He was 28. Hip-Hop Star Yella Beezy’s Capital Murder Trial Rescheduled For October 26 In Dallas, Texas White was convicted of capital murder earlier this month and sentenced to life in prison. Conway’s defense has requested a transcript of White’s trial before his own case proceeds. Defense attorneys previously told the court several expert witnesses were unavailable during the scheduled trial period. The court reporter also expects to need about 30 days to complete White’s trial transcript. Conway’s attorneys requested two additional weeks to review the transcript. Prosecutors agreed to the continuance. The parties also plan to coordinate with the court regarding federal witnesses whose availability could affect the proceedings. Conway has pleaded not guilty and denied involvement in Noble’s death. He remains presumed innocent unless prosecutors prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Conway is represented by attorneys Toby Shook, Michael Mowla and John Gussio. Dallas County prosecutors Tommy Adams, Ricardo Vela and Sharonda Davis represent the state. A third defendant, Devin Brown, also faces a capital murder charge connected to Noble’s killing. The October trial date gives Conway’s legal team additional time to examine White’s testimony. It also provides more time to prepare expert witnesses and address scheduling issues. The case remains closely watched within Dallas’ hip-hop community. The new date now places Conway’s trial on the court’s calendar for Oct. 26. For prosecutors, the case centers on their allegation that Conway orchestrated Noble’s killing. For the defense, the coming weeks provide additional time to challenge that case.