2 Chainz joins ownership group of Hawks' G League team

ATLANTA — 2 Chainz is going to the league … as a part owner.

Grammy Award-winning recording artist and College Park native Tauheed “2 Chainz” Epps has agreed to an ownership stake in the Hawks’ NBA G League team, the College Park Skyhawks.

He joins the ownership group of the affiliate led by Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler.

A formal announcement was made at a Friday afternoon news conference at Epps' alma mater North Clayton High School.

"Three years ago at a Hawks game, we grabbed 2 Chainz and we said, 'Can we have a conversation?'" Hawks CEO Steve Koonin said.

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During the big announcement, the rapper took some time to talk to students about his dream becoming a reality, encouraging them that if he can achieve success, they can too.

"These were my stomping grounds before you started coming around here messing stuff up, but it's all about looking out for the generation below us," Epps said in jest.

Former Hawks star Shareef Abdur Raheem is the president of the G League and said he used to play basketball with the rapper as they were growing up.

“The things that 2 Chainz stands for, the things that he's been able to do accomplish throughout his life, I think it's a powerful representation for of our community, for our young people, and it's awesome for the league,” Abdur-Raheem said.

“I'm a product of hard work and dedication. I'm just here to lead by example through my actions. I'm not here to preach to any kids. I'm here to let them know, I was once in those bleachers too,” Epps said.

Fans can secure season tickets to watch the team for just a $25 deposit. The team will play in the Gateway Center at College Park. It is a 5,000-seat sports and entertainment venue.

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