For the third year, The Red Bull Terminal Takeover returned to the old MSY airport in New Orleans. For two days, skateboarding crews from across the country competed in recorded sessions that were into full-scale videos for voting from fans and supporters nationwide.
Throughout the weekend, Red Bull’s curated skate event drew heavy attention from both local media sources as well as outlets in many parts of the United States. The teams, which hailed from locations such as Philadelphia, Birmingham, Houston, Denver and more, pulled out their biggest and best tricks for the world to see. Team Tupelo edged out the win, gaining bragging rights until next year, as well as a $5,000 grant towards a cause of their choice.
According to the Daily Journal, Matt Robinson, owner of Change, Tupelo’s skateboard shop and the sponsor of the winning team, said the organization will use the winnings to construct an entry-level skatepark in the city.
The 2-day extravaganza culminated with the first ever Red Bull Terminal Takeover: After Hours concert, which celebrated the connection between hip-hop and skate culture, showcasing local artists and highlighting music, fashion, and art. The event was hosted by New Orleans native and Jet Life CEO, Curren$y, and featured live performances from FreshxReckless, Pell, Kings of Brass, Fendi P, 504 and Icy Girl.
“This city is my whole being,” Curren$y says of the pride he has for his hometown prior to his performance at Republic NOLA. “There would be no me. Folks say that all the time, but if it wasn’t for New Orleans and the way it was I wouldn’t have the determination that I have.”
Flau’jae Johnson, rapper and 2023 women’s basketball champion also had an amazing set at After Hours. Prior to her excelling as a guard at Louisiana State University, Johnson’s first love was music, something that she is continuing to pursue in addition to athletics. She spoke to how sports and music will forever be intertwined, and how both are important to her.
“I just feel like you really can’t have one without the other,” the Georgia native says. “I think they compliment each other so well – when you go to the gym, you listen to music, you leave the gym, you listen to music, you’re hooping in the gym, you listen to music. It’s something in the culture that’s linked basketball and music together.”
Congratulations to Team Tupelo on being crowned this year’s Red Bull Terminal Takeover champions, and everyone is looking forward to next year’s phenomenal event. See you there!