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Tag: Super Bowl

  • Can Taylor Swift Make It to the Super Bowl After Her Tokyo Concert?

    Can Taylor Swift Make It to the Super Bowl After Her Tokyo Concert?

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    It’s official: Taylor Swift is heading to the Super Bowl.

    And by Taylor Swift, we mean her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who led his team to victory against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night and clinched a spot in Feb. 11’s big game.

    Swift was on hand Sunday night to celebrate the win, and was photographed embracing Kelce and his family on the field. But, with an Eras Tour date on Feb. 10 in Tokyo, will Swift be able to make it to Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII?

    This was the question on many a Swiftie’s mind Sunday night, with fans taking to social media to try and figure out if the trip was possible. Some even referenced a 2001 episode of “The West Wing” as evidence, which mentions the international date line — something that will be greatly beneficial to Swift in this situation.

    Running between the South and North poles, the international date line serves as the boundary between one calendar day and the next. When traveling eastbound over the line, the date decreases by one day, while going west over the boundary moves things forward by one day. Luckily, Swift is traveling east — meaning that she’ll be able to perform her concert on Saturday night in Tokyo, get a full night of rest, and as long as the 13-hour flight leaves before 6 p.m. Japan Standard Time on Sunday, she’ll land in Las Vegas before kickoff at 3:30 p.m. PT. Also helping the matter is Swift’s private jet, which will ensure a non-stop flight on an international journey where that usually does not exist.

    Basically, Swift will be engaging in the closest thing to time travel in order to cheer on Kelce as the Chiefs face off against the San Francisco 49ers — but after all, she is a “Mastermind.” And, beyond supporting her beau, Swift’s presence at the Super Bowl is something CBS and advertisers are undoubtedly hoping for, given that her presence at football games this season has significantly boosted ratings.

    Super Bowl LVIII will air live on CBS on Feb. 11.



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    Ellise Shafer

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  • Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers to Play in 2024 Super Bowl

    Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers to Play in 2024 Super Bowl

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    Travis Kelce at the AFC Championship and George Kittle at the NFC Championship.     Patrick Smith/Getty Images; Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

    Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers are officially set to face off in Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday, February 11.

    Two games held on Sunday, January 28, determined who would move on to the Super Bowl. Earlier in the day, the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, with a score of 17-10. The San Francisco 49ers then bested the Detroit Lions in the NFC Championship at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, with a score of 34-41.

    The final four teams of the 2023-2024 NFL season have a varied track record when it comes to the Super Bowl. The Chiefs are the reigning champions, having beat the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII in February 2023. Overall, they have won a total of three Super Bowls, in 1970, 2020 and 2023. The Ravens, meanwhile, have secured two Super Bowl wins in 2001 and 2013.

    The 49ers have won five Super Bowls, in 1982, 1985, 1989, 1990 and 1995. The Lions are one of the four NFL teams that have never appeared in a Super Bowl.

    Brock Purdy at NFC Championship

    Brock Purdy at NFC Championship on January 28, 2024.     Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

    Jay-Z, Damar Hamlin, Sheryl Lee Ralph and More Celebrities Attend Super Bowl 2023- Photos - 693

    Related: Kendall! J. Lo! Stars at the Super Bowl Through the Years

    In the (end) zone! Over the years, stars including Mark Wahlberg, Chrissy Teigen, Drew Barrymore and Will Smith have taken their football fandom to the sport’s biggest annual event. Teigen made a memorable appearance at the Super Bowl in 2017 when she suffered a nip slip. While watching the showdown between the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons with husband […]

    As always, the biggest sporting event of the year will be complete with plenty of non-football entertainment. Reba McEntire will sing the national anthem before the game, while Post Malone will perform “America the Beautiful” and Andra Day will sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Later in the broadcast, Usher will helm the halftime show.

    “It’s an honor of a lifetime to finally check a Super Bowl performance off my bucket list. I can’t wait to bring the world a show unlike anything else they’ve seen from me before,” Usher, 45, said in a September 2023 statement. “Thank you to the fans and everyone who made this opportunity happen. I’ll see you real soon.”

    Jay-Z, whose entertainment company Roc Nation is a sponsor of the halftime show, showed his support for Usher in his own statement at the time. “Usher is the ultimate artist and showman. Ever since his debut at the age of 15, he’s been charting his own unique course. Beyond his flawless singing and exceptional choreography, Usher bares his soul,” the rapper, 54, said. “His remarkable journey has propelled him to one of the grandest stages in the world. I can’t wait to see the magic.”

    Super Bowl LVIII will air on CBS Sunday, February 11, at 6:30 p.m. ET.

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    Erin Crabtree

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  • What will Taylor Swift need to do to travel to Super Bowl to see Chiefs, Travis Kelce?

    What will Taylor Swift need to do to travel to Super Bowl to see Chiefs, Travis Kelce?

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    The Kansas City Chiefs will play in Super Bowl 58 in Las Vegas on Feb. 11.

    Will their biggest new fan of the 2023 season be there to see them? Taylor Swift has a concert date immediately before the big game.

    Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.

    We’ve all read about their romance over the past few weeks. You can’t watch the NFL on Sunday without hearing about them. They are the topic of talk shows, columnists and “Saturday Night Live” parodies.

    She’s been seen rooting on Kelce and the Kansas City Chiefs at home games at Arrowhead Stadium and also at the Chiefs’ away games, including Sunday’s win over Baltimore in the AFC Championship game.

    The couple have been seen away from the field, too.

    So, we know they are a couple.

    But how serious are they?

    By the time Super Bowl LVIII (that’s 58) rolls around on Feb. 11 in Las Vegas, we could find out.

    The defending champion Chiefs return to the big game, scheduled to start at 3:30 p.m. local time at Allegiant Stadium, the music artist will need to be swift to get to see her favorite football player on the sport’s biggest stage.

    Why?

    She’s performing in Tokyo for four nights (Feb. 7-10). Each concert is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. in Japan.

    Thus, the night before the Super Bowl, she’s performing 5,530 miles away.

    For most of us, that may be a problem.

    For someone with Swift’s resources, it can be done.

    In February, Tokyo will be 15 hours ahead of Las Vegas (Japan doesn’t switch from Daylight Saving Time to Standard Time). That means when Swift begins her concert in Tokyo at 6 p.m. on Feb. 10, it’s actually 3 a.m. on Feb. 10 in Las Vegas. If her concert ends at 10 p.m. in Tokyo, it’s 7 a.m. on Feb. 10 in Las Vegas. Kelce would just be rolling out of bed in a Las Vegas resort, a day before the big game. So the kickoff is still a tad over 32 hours away.

    A direct flight from Tokyo to Las Vegas takes an average of 14 hours. Gotta figure she can get there. She may be weary, but it is possible.

    But don’t expect to see her perform at halftime. That job’s already been given to Usher.

    This story was originally published January 28, 2024, 5:22 PM.

    Dave Ammenheuser is the Star-Telegram’s sports editor. He coordinates the S-T sports coverage and occasionally writes a bit, too. He’s worked in newsrooms all across the country, including overseeing the USA TODAY sports department. He’s covered every sport imaginable, from Little League to the World Series to the Olympics.

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  • The Paley Museum’s Super Bowl exhibit features championship rings, iconic commercials and the Vince Lombardi Trophy

    The Paley Museum’s Super Bowl exhibit features championship rings, iconic commercials and the Vince Lombardi Trophy

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    While the final four NFL teams will find out Sunday who gets to compete for the Vince Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl LVIII, New Yorkers can view that prized piece of hardware at Midtown’s Paley Center for Media, where the trophy serves as the centerpiece of a Super Bowl exhibition featuring unforgettable Giants and Jets memorabilia.

    The unprecedented exhibit, titled “Beyond the Big Game,” runs now through Sunday, March 3.

    Paley Center’s Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)

    “It’s quite something when you see it all together,” Paley Center curator and Jets fan Jason Lynch told the Daily News.

    Among his favorite items is a football signed by Joe Namath. There’s also a proverbial pigskin signed by former Giants quarterback Phil Simms among the collection’s dozens of other artifacts.

    A display case in the W. 52nd Street museum contains all 57 Super Bowl rings — including the four won by the Giants between 1987 and 2012, and the one awarded to the Jets in 1969. The exhibit also includes game balls from the Big Blue’s 1991 and 2007 championships.

    Paley Center's Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)
    Paley Center’s Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)

    The Vince Lombardi Trophy highlights the Paley Center’s presentation until the middle of the week, when the 22-inch sterling silver statuette travels to Las Vegas to be presented to this year’s Super Bowl champion. A replica of one of the Giants’ Super Bowl trophies will take its place until it returns to the museum on Feb. 13.

    “Beyond the Big Game” also features more than 150 photos of iconic Super Bowl moments and screenings of some of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history.

    And the exhibition has plenty to offer those who enjoy the spectacle of the Super Bowl just as much — or more than — the game itself.

    More than a half-dozen screens will play Super Bowl Halftime Shows, along with more than 60 memorable commercials that debuted during the big game, such as Apple’s groundbreaking Orwellian 1984 ad directed by Ridley Scott that’s now considered an advertising masterpiece.

    Lynch believes “Beyond the Big Game” exemplifies just how much the Super Bowl, media and The Paley Center itself have evolved over the past 50 years.

    “When you think about it, the Super Bowl is the biggest media event of the year,” he said. “It’s literally the biggest TV show of the year. It’s the one TV event that gets more popular every year… every decade.”

    Lynch cites the musical acts and commercials as a large part of what makes the Super Bowl bigger than any other U.S. sporting event. A 30-second ad spot during next month’s game reportedly goes for $7 million.

    “It is the one time of the year audiences embrace commercials rather than trying to avoid them,” he said.

    Paley Center's Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)
    Paley Center’s Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)

    Fans who can’t wait to watch Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11 are invited to visit the Paley Center on Feb. 10 for a one-time-only screening of the very first Super Bowl, between the Vince Lombardi-led Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs. The center calls the footage of the 1967 matchup “The Holy Grail of Football.”

    There was no known recording of the game until 2011, when a Pennsylvania man came forward with two-inch quadruplex tapes his father recorded in a TV studio more than 40 years earlier. Super Bowl I aired on CBS and NBC, with both networks reportedly erasing the tapes so they could be reused to record soap operas.

    At the time, “there wasn’t a sense this was going to be this big thing,” Lynch said.

    Paley Center's Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)
    Paley Center’s Super Bowl exhibit. (Paley Center)

    The NFL subsequently pieced together disparate footage it collected to reproduce a copy of the first Super Bowl in 2016.

    The Paley Center exhibit also features a football used in that game, on loan from the NFL Hall of Fame.

    Tickets for “Beyond the Big Game” and the special screening of Super Bowl I are included with $20 general admission to The Paley Museum, and are free for Paley members.

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    Brian Niemietz

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  • Las Vegas Police Gears Up for Super Bowl Security

    Las Vegas Police Gears Up for Super Bowl Security

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    Las Vegas, a perennial target for potential threats, is ensuring robust security measures as it prepares for the upcoming Super Bowl at Allegiant Stadium on 11 February. Past high-profile events like the New Year’s Eve and the Formula 1 Grand Prix have provided invaluable experience, allowing for better-organized security preparations. Police plans to extend its coverage beyond the stadium to locations hosting parties and Super Bowl experiences.

    The Super Bowl’s Scale Presents Unique Challenges

    The Department of Homeland Security has designated the Super Bowl as a SEAR 1 event, signifying the highest level of security. Metro aims for successful law enforcement through communication and collaboration involving public safety groups. Despite the challenges, Clark County Sheriff McMahill stressed the importance of keeping officers motivated and focused to ensure the community’s safety.

    In an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, McMahill highlighted the department’s approach to high-profile events, drawing parallels with past gatherings. McMahill noted the additional challenges posed by numerous events surrounding the game. Many resorts on the Strip plan on attracting fans with activities like pool parties, adding to the NFL-approved events.

    “We are prepared for the Super Bowl like we were prepared for any other major event.”

    Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill

    Sheriff McMahill acknowledged the challenges faced by his officers, noting that on any given weekend, around 1,200 officers work overtime to cover high-profile events in the tourist corridor. Metro has accumulated substantial experience responding to emerging issues, leveraging its resources to achieve maximum effect. The upcoming Super Bowl should be a suitable test of the Metro’s expertise.

    Preparations Are Well Underway

    Security measures have evolved significantly since the tragic mass shooting on 1 October 2017 during a country music festival on the Strip. The incident remains a cautionary tale when planning security for high-profile events, as it offers painful lessons on managing such large crowds. New technologies and increased awareness should hopefully lead to a trouble-free experience for Las Vegas visitors.

    To ensure the success of security measures, Metro Lt. Kendall Bell, co-chair of the Las Vegas Super Bowl Host Committee’s public safety and security subcommittee, highlighted the importance of information-sharing and joint efforts. The committee has been actively assisting the authorities, attending the past two Super Bowls in California and Arizona to familiarize themselves with the event.

    As Las Vegas prepares for the Super Bowl, the city remains vigilant against potential threats, drawing on past experiences to implement robust security measures for the upcoming major event. Although the Metro cannot eliminate every possible danger, it is hard at work to ensure the high-profile game will happen seamlessly and without significant issues. 

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Rob Gronkowski’s 'Gronk Beach' Set to Invade Big Game Weekend in Las Vegas

    Rob Gronkowski’s 'Gronk Beach' Set to Invade Big Game Weekend in Las Vegas

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    Taking Place at Wynn Las Vegas’ Famed Encore Beach Club Featuring Afrojack & Special Guest Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024
    Tickets and Wynn Nightlife VIP Tables on Sale Now


    LAS VEGAS, January 22, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Making its return to Wynn Las Vegas during Big Game Weekend, NFL legend and four-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski brings back the ultimate beach party with his personally fueled music festival Gronk Beach. Competing for the title of MVP of Fun, Gronkowski is celebrating the biggest weekend in sports with the best beach-party-meets-music-festival experience, taking place at the premier poolside destination Encore Beach Club at Wynn Las Vegas and featuring superstar performances from Afrojack and a special guest. Produced by Medium Rare, Gronk Beach is Big Game Weekend’s #1 daytime event occurring on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 12-6 p.m. PST. Tickets and Wynn Nightlife VIP Tables are available now at GRONKBEACH.com.

    Gronk Beach repeatedly has sold out thousands of tickets in minutes year over year — including in 2020 (Miami), 2022 (Las Vegas) and 2023 (Phoenix). Past editions have attracted countless celebrity attendees and major talent on the mainstage, including The Chainsmokers, Kaskade, 21 Savage, Diplo, Rick Ross, and GORDO (Carnage). The one-of-a-kind festival will be taken to new heights as it returns to Las Vegas alongside its esteemed partner Wynn Nightlife at the iconic destination Encore Beach Club. Reigning over the industry year after year, Encore Beach Club has positioned itself as a top daylife destination, delivering unparalleled hospitality and unrivaled entertainment.

    Event tickets will start at $74.99 in very limited quantities and increase in price as the event gets closer. VIP Tables beginning at $7,500 are also on sale now. To further celebrate Big Game Weekend 58, Cash App Card holders will have the exclusive opportunity to receive 58% off their general admission event tickets. On Jan. 29, make sure to head to the Gronk Beach website and purchase tickets utilizing your Cash App Card to receive the discount while supplies last. For those looking to secure a Cash App Card, visit https://cash.app/card today. In addition, Cash App Card holders will also receive 15% off their food and beverage purchases at select event locations when using their Cash App Card at checkout. 

    “VEGAS BABY WE ARE BACK!! You got that right. I’m headed back to Big Game Weekend to win another championship with the return of Gronk Beach. There’s one thing I’ll never retire from — and that’s going to the Beach: Gronk Beach,” said Rob Gronkowski. “Thanks to the support of my favorite partners, guests can expect an unforgettable festival experience alongside some of my favorite artists in the world, friends and family.” 

    Everything in Las Vegas is extravagant and Gronk Beach is no different with its dedicated poolside cabanas and bars. With custom beverages from Zamora Company’s staple brands, Licor 43, Lolea, Martin Miller’s Gin and Yellow Rose Whiskey, NÜTRL, Teremana Tequila, Monster Energy, Nasty Beast and so much more, the event will also include luau performers, musical superstars, and a spike of Gronk. 

    A champion for its cardholders, Cash App is encouraging consumers to do more with their money and unlock a number of incentives with Cash App all Big Game Weekend long. Beginning today, Cash App Card holders will receive 58% off of their general admission tickets to Gronk Beach. Celebrating this year’s 58th Big Game, the 58% discount is available for all Cash App Card holders while supplies last. Complementing this unprecedented discount, Cash App will also be offering Cash App Card holders 15% off their food and beverage at select locations onsite. Make sure to register for your very own Cash App Card today before heading to Big Game Weekend LVIII.

    As returning partners of Gronk Beach, Monster and The Beast Unleashed are excited to keep the party going. Monster Energy will not only be offering Gronk Beach attendees FREE Monster all day long, but will also feature a Monster bar where fans can stop in and charge up. Brewed with the smoothest, tried-and-true flavors, The Beast’s 6% ABV hard tea Nasty Beast will be available in two flavors across all festival bars. Grab a can and raise your hands — we’re ready to Unleash The Beast!

    Anheuser-Busch — America’s leading brewer and American manufacturer — is showing up for consumers all throughout Big Game Weekend. Guests can expect to see Anheuser-Busch and its signature brands, like NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, a light and refreshing spirits-based seltzer, as they all mingle with some of the biggest stars in sports and entertainment.

    Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s ultra-premium, small-batch tequila Teremana Tequila is headed back to Gronk Beach. Continuing its mission to Share the Mana through its high-quality and accessible tequila, the beloved brand will be shaking up custom cocktails across all event bars and its very own Teremana Tequila bar.

    Pluto TV, the leading free ad-supported streaming television service, is teaming up with Gronk and Gronk Beach to provide fans with game-day essentials. Gronk Beach attendees will be able to grab items such as snacks, chargers, sunglasses and more. Free and easy — just like Pluto TV.

    A three-time partner of Gronk Beach, Zamora Company brings its portfolio of iconic brands to Las Vegas. This year, Zamora will feature cocktails and experiences from the likes of Licor 43, Lolea Sangria, Yellow Rose Whiskey and Martin Miller’s Gin. It’s the perfect complement to Gronk Beach’s poolside affair, so make sure to stop by any event bar for a sip of Zamora’s finest.

    Wrangler®, a global denim icon of over 75 years, will be returning as the official denim sponsor of Gronk Beach. Throughout the event, Gronk will sport a custom look: a Gronked-out Wrangler denim vest and denim-clad Pit Viper sunglasses — the perfect way to complete his Gronk Beach OOTD. To line up your perfect Gronk Beach outfit, check out Wrangler.com.

    Pit Viper is the world’s leader in party-ready eyewear, apparel, and accessories. Polarized, safety-rated sunglasses designed with the optimal blend of style and performance, Pit Viper is the obvious favorite for fun-loving athletes like Gronk and the most fashionable football fans. Pit Viper: DEMAND RESPECT AND AUTHORITY.

    Apparel is evolving with BYLT Premium Basics and Gronk knows it. As an official partner of Gronk Beach, BYLT is excited to showcase its dynamic everyday essentials through providing Gronk and Gronk Beach staff members alike with premium apparel — offering everyone confidence in every opportunity.

    For more information on Gronk Beach and to purchase tickets or Wynn Nightlife VIP Tables, visit www.GronkBeach.com. Follow on social at @GronkBeach on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

    Download ART

    About Gronk Beach:

    Future Hall of Famer and 4X Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski teamed up with Medium Rare to create Gronk Beach. The festival brings GRONK’s eccentric personality to life combining a high-end beach party with Rob’s favorite musical artists, amazing food, drinks, interactive performers, and more. With two Gronk Beach events at Big Game Weekend and another at the NFL Draft, the event has garnered over four billion media impressions and has hosted guests from Travis Kelce to Julian Edelman, Guy Fieri to Camille Kostek. Even post-retirement, Gronk continues to be one of the most talked-about players of Super Bowl Weekend without even playing in the Big Game.

    About Medium Rare 

    Lauded events, experiential, and management company Medium Rare works at the intersection of Sports & Entertainment, partnering with well-known athletes and brands to create iconic media properties, including Shaquille O’Neal’s Fun House, Daymond John’s Black Entrepreneurs Day, Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, Rob Gronkowski’s Gronk Beach, Dave Portnoy’s One Bite Festival, and many more. Creating and executing iconic IP and events that draw in millions of views and fans from around the world, Medium Rare’s work also reaps industry accolades. Recognized with six Webby Awards, Medium Rare founders Joe Silberzweig and Adam Richman are Forbes 30 Under 30 alumni and have graced the Pollstar Next Gen and Variety New Leaders lists in 2020 and 2021, respectively. The group’s world-class production is balanced by its growing management division, overseeing careers, tours, and partnership deals for some of the most celebrated artists and athletes, including Gordo (formerly DJ Carnage) and DJ Diesel aka SHAQ. For more info, visit www.Medium-Rare.com.

    About Wynn Nightlife

    Wynn Nightlife consists of the award-winning dayclub and nightclubs at Wynn Las Vegas, the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. The resort is home to the Las Vegas Strip’s most luxurious nightlife venues, XS and Encore Beach Club at Night, as well as the acclaimed dayclub Encore Beach Club. Recently added to the portfolio, Wynn Field Club at Allegiant Stadium offers guests the first of its kind in stadium entertainment. Combined, the venues feature a roster of today’s most in-demand artists. Learn more at www.wynnnightlife.com.

    Partnership Inquiries:
    Joe Silberzweig — Joe@Medium-Rare.com

    Media Inquiries and Talent Requests:
    Amanda Brocato — Amanda@RMG_PR.com

    Source: Gronk Beach

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  • Reba McEntire Scores Honor Of Performing National Anthem At Super Bowl – ‘Oh My Gosh!’

    Reba McEntire Scores Honor Of Performing National Anthem At Super Bowl – ‘Oh My Gosh!’

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    Opinion

    Source: CBS Mornings YouTube

    It was revealed on Thursday morning that the country music star Reba McEntire will be performing the national anthem at the Super Bowl next month.

    McEntire To Perform At Super Bowl

    It’s been announced that during the Super Bowl, McEntire will perform “The Star Spangled Banner,” the rapper Post Malone will perform “America the Beautiful” and the singer Andra Day will sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which is known as the black national anthem. McEntire told CBS News that she was told of this incredible opportunity by her manager.

    “He said that they wanted me to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl, and I said ‘Oh my gosh. Well, let me think about that,’” said McEntire, 68. “And Rex Linn, my boyfriend, who is a huge football fan, he said, ‘Yes, she’ll do it. Absolutely.’ So that’s where we’re at.” 

    While this will be the first time that McEntire performs at the Super Bowl, she’s been singing the national anthem for decades, doing so publicly for the first time back in 1974 at the National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City.

    “I’m honored to be a part of something as big and historic as the Super Bowl coming to Las Vegas for the first time,” she said in a separate statement, according to Taste Of Country. “2024 marks 50 years since I was discovered singing the national anthem at the National Finals Rodeo, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate that anniversary.”

    That’s why she feels confident that she’ll be ready to take the stage for the Super Bowl LVIII at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on February 11.

    “You just warm up like you do a concert and sing it about five or six times, and get in there, and do it,” McEntire concluded. 

    Watch McEntire’s full comments on this in the video below.

    Related: Reba McEntire Breaks Down In Tears As 16 Year-Old Singer Performs One Of Her Songs On ‘The Voice’

    McEntire ‘At A Really Good Place’ In Her Life’

    This comes one month after McEntire spoke out to gush over where she is currently at in her life.

    “I’m at a really good place in my life,” McEntire told People Magazine. “I’m happy, I’m in love. My kids are all healthy. My family’s healthy. So I’m happy.”

    McEntire went on to reveal her New Year’s resolutions, explaining that she has both professional and personal ones as we head into 2024.

    “Professional would be to continue doing what I love to do. Say no to the things that won’t be fun. Say yes to the things that will be,” she said. “Personal is to have fun — just continue being happy and healthy. That’s what I pray for daily.”

    Related: Reba McEntire, 68, Reveals Her Secret To Finding Happiness – ‘I’m At A Really Good Place In My Life’

    McEntire’s Love Life

    Linn, who McEntire has been dating for four years, has played a major role in her happiness as of late.

    “It’s good to have a person to talk to, laugh with, get into subjects about what’s going on,” McEntire previously said of him, according to Yahoo News. “Discussions about our past, our family, funny stories, him being an actor, me being an actress.”

    “And he’s very into my music. I’m very into his career,” she added. “It’s just great getting to talk to somebody who I find very interesting, very funny, very smart and is interested in me, too.”

    In a world where so many celebrities are divisive politically, McEntire is one of the few stars who really does appeal to everyone. We can’t wait to see how she performs our country’s great national anthem at the Super Bowl next month!

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    James Conrad

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  • Super Bowl pregame performers include Reba McEntire singing national anthem, Andra Day and Post Malone

    Super Bowl pregame performers include Reba McEntire singing national anthem, Andra Day and Post Malone

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    Reba McEntire gets Super Bowl gig


    Reba McEntire to sing national anthem at Super Bowl

    05:43

    This year’s Super Bowl will feature the top players in the NFL — and some incredible pregame performers, revealed first on “CBS Mornings” on Thursday.

    Country music icon and Grammy winner Reba McEntire will sing the national anthem, rapper Post Malone will perform “America the Beautiful” and singer Andra Day will take the stage for “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”  This comes ahead of an already-announced halftime show by R&B star Usher. 

    McEntire sat down with the hosts of “CBS Mornings” to talk about how she’s feeling about her performance. She said she was told about the opportunity by her manager. 

    “He said that they wanted me to sing the national anthem at the Super Bowl, and I said ‘Oh my gosh. Well, let me think about that,’” McEntire said. “And Rex Linn, my boyfriend, who is a huge football fan, he said, ‘Yes, she’ll do it. Absolutely.’ So that’s where we’re at.” 

    This will mark McEntire’s first performance at the Super Bowl. McEntire has been singing the national anthem for decades, starting in 1974 when she performed the number at the National Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City, so she said she feels comfortable getting ready for the Super Bowl stage. 

    “You just warm up like you do a concert and sing it about five or six times, and get in there, and do it,” McEntire said. 

    Super Bowl LVIII will air on CBS on Feb. 11 from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

    Kerry Breen


    Kerry Breen

    Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University’s Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News’ TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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  • Las Vegas Super Bowl Strike: What to Know • This Week in Gambling

    Las Vegas Super Bowl Strike: What to Know • This Week in Gambling

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    We are once again facing the threat of a work stoppage. A Las Vegas Super Bowl strike involving culinary and hospitality workers. This time over 8,000 workers at 20 resorts have set a date to walk off their jobs, which could leave a shortage of bartenders, waiters, porters, and house cleaning staff for the big game.

    Well, here we go again. Another big sporting event is headed for Sin City, and with it the threat of employees walking off their jobs, as a potential Las Vegas Super Bowl strike is this week’s big story. Back in November, 35,000 Las Vegas workers threatened to walk off their jobs just days before the Formula 1 Grand Prix if their demands were not met. That tactic worked so well that now an additional 8,000 employees are threatening to do the exact same thing before the Super Bowl.

    February 2nd is the day that workers at these 20 Las Vegas Resorts say they will go on strike. That’s just nine days before the big game on February 11th. And if they do walk out, guests at these resorts may have a hard time finding a waitress, a bartender, or a cook. And there may not be anyone to wash your dirty sheets and towels, no one to clean your toilet, and no one to help you with your bags.

    The Secretary and Treasurer of the Union stated that he believes there will be a Las Vegas Super Bowl strike, and that it will affect more of the city than just those resorts. And while this certainly will not stop the Super Bowl from being played, it could make the experience a lot less fun for those who attend. Now hey, let’s just be honest for a moment, because even if there is a strike, the Super Bowl will will still be played and televised, and people with tickets to the game are still going to travel to Las Vegas to watch it. Besides that, just like back in November this strike will probably be averted with some last minute deal.

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    This Week in Gambling

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  • Shaquille O’Neal Heads to Big Game Weekend: Announcing Shaq’s Fun House 2024 at Wynn Las Vegas’ Iconic XS Nightclub

    Shaquille O’Neal Heads to Big Game Weekend: Announcing Shaq’s Fun House 2024 at Wynn Las Vegas’ Iconic XS Nightclub

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    Headlined by Lil Wayne, Diplo, and DJ DIESEL, Shaq’s legendary festival will kick off Friday February 9, 2024

    Tickets and VIP Tables Now On Sale


    LAS VEGAS, January 16, 2024 (Newswire.com)
    –
    Shaquille O’Neal is headed back to Las Vegas for Big Game Weekend and bringing his larger-than-life personality and over-the-top music festival: Shaq’s Fun House 2024. Taking place on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, at one of the most exclusive and top-rated nightlife destinations in the world – Shaq’s Fun House will offer a legendary fan experience for the sixth year in a row. Featuring an immersive carnival and incredible live performances from Lil Wayne, Diplo, and the big man himself, DJ DIESEL aka Shaq, tickets for the event are on sale now. Shaq’s Fun House 2024 will offer general admission tickets, VIP open bar tickets, and best-in-class VIP Table experiences. Tickets start at $99.99 in very limited quantities and will increase in price as the event nears. A 21 and over event, all tickets and VIP Tables can be purchased online at WWW.SHAQSFUNHOUSE.COM.

    Altering the landscape of events and bringing fun to Big Game Weekend, Shaq’s championship energy will fuel the carnival-inspired festival at XS Nightclub, and join in the fun alongside the night’s master of ceremonies and celebrity guests. Over the years, this “must attend” event has welcomed more than 25,000 fans and celebrity guests. The one-of-a-kind festival will be taken to new heights in Las Vegas, due in part to esteemed nightlife partner, Wynn Nightlife. An industry leader year after year, Wynn Nightlife’s award-winning XS Nightclub leads the forefront of the hospitality landscape, positioning itself as the ultimate nightlife destination in the entertainment capital of the world. Guests joining Shaq’s Fun House will not only be able to enjoy Shaq’s wild ride of an experience, but also XS Nightclub’s unmatched hospitality.

    For the sixth annual event, Shaq is pleased to welcome Lil Wayne and Diplo. Lil Wayne is an award-winning and game-changing icon, who has sold more than 120 million records worldwide – making him one of the world’s best-selling artists. He has won five GRAMMY® Awards, 11 BET Awards, four Billboard Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, and eight NAACP Image Awards. Diplo is one of the most dynamic forces in music today; the ten-time GRAMMY-nominated artist is a member of the iconic Major Lazer, one-third of LSD, and half of Silk City with Mark Ronson. His Platinum-certified song “Electricity” with Dua Lipa topped charts worldwide and won a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording.

    “If there’s one town that knows how to bring the energy and over-the-top entertainment, it’s Las Vegas. So we’re stepping our game up and popping up a carnival and musical festival at the best venue in town, XS Nightclub at Wynn Las Vegas.” -Shaquille O’Neal 

    Anheuser-Busch – America’s leading brewer and American manufacturer – is showing up for consumers all throughout Big Game Weekend. Guests can expect to see Anheuser-Busch and its signature brands, like NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, a light and refreshing spirits-based seltzer, as they all mingle with some of the biggest stars in sports and entertainment.

    Pluto TV, the leading free ad-supported streaming television service is teaming up with Shaq and Shaq’s Fun House to provide fans with game day essentials. Fun House attendees will be able to grab items like snacks, chargers, sunglasses and more. Free and easy – just like Pluto TV.

    DeLeón Tequila, the definition of smooth, is serving up the finest tequila from 100% Highland Blue Weber agave all night long at Shaq’s Fun House. With custom curated cocktails and an all new DeLeón Tequila bar, 21+ attendees will be able to experience the depth of DeLeón’s flavor firsthand. THIS IS TEQUILA.

    Shaq’s Fun House just got a whole lot Better with Pepsi. Pepsi is proud to partner with Shaq and Shaq’s Fun House to showcase how the Big Game Weekend 2024 is Better with Pepsi. Featuring an oversized Pepsi bar, custom curated Pepsi cocktails, Pepsi flavors including Pepsi Zero Sugar and the sweet, juicy and effervescent flavor profile of Pepsi Wild Cherry, and so much more, it’s time to get wild Las Vegas!

    As an official partner of Shaq’s Fun House, Zamora Company and its famed brands Licor 43 and Martin Miller’s Gin will incorporate custom cocktails and activations throughout the event including the buzzworthy Casa de Shaquille which will feature over the top cocktail creations featuring Licor 43 and Martin Miller’s! From Carajillos to a classic G&T, Casa de Shaquille is set to shake things up!

    CELSIUS is bringing Essential Energy all Big Game Weekend long! The better-for-you, premium alternative to traditional energy is made with 7 Essential vitamins and zero sugar. Available across the entire event, CELSIUS is the perfect balance of flavor and energy – the ultimate boost to keep you going. CELSIUS will be the perfect complement to Big Game Weekend’s kickoff event.

    BETTER INGREDIENTS. BETTER PIZZA. And a whole lot of Better Experiences with Papa Johns. A longtime partner of Shaq’s Fun House, Papa Johns is hosting the exclusive Calzone Cabana for Fun House guests and pizza lovers to engage with the brand in a new and exciting way. Papa Johns is also sending one lucky winner and a guest on the trip of a lifetime. This winner will not only be flown out to Las Vegas to experience Shaq’s Fun House in person, but will also be joining Shaq onstage for an epic moment. That’s some good stuff right there.

    Nautica, the famed, global lifestyle brand is making waves at Shaq’s Fun House. Highlighting its all-new line of women’s apparel, Shaq’s Fun House guests will have the unique opportunity to get a first look and snap a photo with Nautica’s sustainable, responsible, and smart functional designs that you want to live your life in.

    Medium Rare produces Shaq’s Fun House in partnership with Authentic Entertainment. Medium Rare’s track record at Big Game Weekend is second to none with some of the most viral sold-out events in history, including Gronk Beach, Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and The Shaq Bowl. For more information about Shaq’s Fun House or to purchase tickets, visit SHAQSFUNHOUSE.com or follow along on social at @ShaqsFunHouse on IG and X.

    ###

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    About Authentic Brands Group

    Authentic Brands Group (Authentic) is a global brand development, marketing and entertainment platform, which owns a portfolio of more than 50 iconic and world-renowned Lifestyle, Entertainment and Media brands. Headquartered in New York City, with offices around the world, Authentic connects strong brands with best-in-class partners and a global network of operators, distributors and retailers to build long-term value in the marketplace. Its brands generate more than $29 billion in global annual retail sales and have an expansive retail footprint in 150 countries, including 13,100-plus freestanding stores and shop-in-shops and 382,000 points of sale.

    Authentic is committed to transforming brands by delivering powerful storytelling, compelling content, innovative business models and immersive experiences. It creates and activates original marketing strategies to drive the success of its brands across all consumer touchpoints, platforms and emerging media. Authentic’s brand portfolio includes Marilyn Monroe®, Elvis Presley®, Muhammad Ali®, Shaquille O’Neal®, David Beckham®, Dr. J®, Greg Norman®, Neil Lane®, Thalia®, Sports Illustrated®, Reebok®, Brooks Brothers®, Barneys New York®, Judith Leiber®, Ted Baker®, Hunter®, Vince®, Hervé Léger®, Hickey Freeman®, Frye®, Nautica®, Juicy Couture®, Vince Camuto®, Lucky Brand®, Aéropostale®, Forever 21®, Nine West®, Sperry®, Rockport®, Eddie Bauer®, Boardriders®, Quiksilver®, Billabong®, Roxy®, DC Shoes®, RVCA®, Element®, VonZipper®, Honolua®, Spyder®, Volcom®, Shark®, Tretorn®, Prince®, Airwalk®, Izod®, Jones New York®, Van Heusen®, Hart Schaffner Marx®, Arrow® and Thomasville®.

    For more information, visit corporate.authentic.com.

    Follow Authentic on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.

    About Medium Rare

    Lauded events, experiential, and management company, Medium Rare works at the intersection of Sports & Entertainment, partnering with well know athletes and brands to create iconic media properties including Shaquille O’Neal’s Fun House, Daymond John’s Black Entrepreneurs Day, Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, Rob Gronkowski’s Gronk Beach, Dave Portnoy’s One Bite Festival, and many more. Creating and executing iconic IP and events which draw in millions of views and fans from around the world, Medium Rare works also reaps industry accolades. Recognized with six Webby Awards, Medium Rare Founders Joe Silberzweig and Adam Richman are Forbes 30 Under 30 alumni and have graced the Pollstar Next Gen and Variety New Leaders lists in 2020 and 2021, respectively. The group’s world class production is balanced by its growing management division, overseeing careers, tours, and partnerships deals for some of the most celebrated artists and athletes including Gordo (formerly DJ Carnage) and DJ Diesel aka SHAQ. For more info visit www.Medium-Rare.com

    About Wynn Nightlife

    Wynn Nightlife consists of the award-winning dayclub and nightclubs at Wynn Las Vegas, the recipient of more Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards than any other independent hotel company in the world. The resort is home to the Las Vegas Strip’s most luxurious nightlife venues, XS and Encore Beach Club at Night, as well as the acclaimed dayclub, Encore Beach Club. Recently added to the portfolio, Wynn Field Club at Allegiant Stadium offers guests the first of its kind in stadium entertainment. Combined, the venues feature a roster of today’s most in-demand artists. Learn more at www.wynnnightlife.com.

    Media Contact & Talent RSVP:

    Amanda Brocato – RMG

    amanda@rmg-pr.com

    512.743.3941

    Partnership Inquiries:

    Joe Silberzweig – Medium Rare

    Joe@Medium-Rare.com

    VIP Hospitality:

    Zachary Goldberg – Authentic

    zgoldberg@authentic.com

    Source: Shaq’s Fun House

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  • Rob Gronkowski Joins FanDuel for Kick of Destiny 2 Campaign

    Rob Gronkowski Joins FanDuel for Kick of Destiny 2 Campaign

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    FanDuel, a leading iGaming company in North America and an official betting partner of the NFL, has once again teamed up with its long-time partner Rob Gronkowski to produce the sequel to last year’s Kick of Destiny.

    Kick of Destiny 2, according to FanDuel’s official announcement, will see four-time Super Bowl Champion Gronkowski make his way to Las Vegas and attempt to successfully make a field goal just before the start of the Super Bowl.

    Kay Adams who hosts FanDuel TVs Up & Adams show will serve as commentator during Gronkowski’s next “shot at destiny.”

    Kick of Destiny 2 will boast a new interactive element that allows customers to make a free pick on whether they think Gronkowski will Make or Miss the kick. The promotion will be available through the FanDuel Sportsbook app and will provide eligible customers who pick correctly with an equal share of a stellar $10,000,000 in bonus bets.

    Gronkowski Wants a Shot at Redemption

    Gronkowski features in FanDuel’s new Kick of Destiny 2 ad where a shabbier version of him can be seen walking through the desert and regretting last year’s missed kick. However, Gronk gets saved by his new coach, Carl Weathers, who believes that this year will be different. John Cena will also participate in the campaign, rooting for Gronkowski to fail.

    Rob Gronkowski commented on the new Kick of Destiny campaign, admitting that his previous miss devastated him. Because of that, he told FanDuel that he needs a shot at redemption.

    I’m going to show America I can make that kick, even with all the pressure of doing it live in front of the entire country. No wind is going to stop me, and we’re going through the uprights this year for everyone who picks that I’m going to make the kick.

    Rob Gronkowski

    John Cena also commented on the campaign, saying that he is excited to “play the villain” since this is a role he rarely gets to play.

    I remember watching Gronk’s kick last year and am so excited to be working with a brand like FanDuel to make this sports moment more exciting for their fans, but do I think he’s going to make it? No chance!

    John Cena

    Andrew Sneyd, FanDuel’s executive vice president of marketing, also commented on the matter, saying that last year’s campaign saw “tremendous engagement” from the company’s customers. Sneyd is looking forward to engaging NFL fans once again this year. In the meantime, he praised Gronkowski for his passionate, entertaining and trailblazing persona, saying that he is a perfect fit for FanDuel.

    This is not Gronk’s first venture together with FanDuel. A few months ago, the famous NFL player teamed up with the gambling powerhouse for a new game called Gronk Spike Cornhole.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • CBS Plans Las Vegas Takeover at the Bellagio for Super Bowl LVIII (TV News Round Up)

    CBS Plans Las Vegas Takeover at the Bellagio for Super Bowl LVIII (TV News Round Up)

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    CBS is taking the network on the road for Super Bowl LVIII. The Eye network is planning what it calls “an exclusive weeklong residency” at the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas that week. The network’s multiplatform Super Bowl coverage will include sports, news and entertainment leading up to the CBS Sports’ presentation of the game on Feb. 11.

    The Fountains of Bellagio will serve as the backdrop of CBS’ central broadcast location. Las Vegas will be home to shows from four CBS divisions across broadcast, cable and streaming from Feb. 5 to Feb. 11. The CBS Sports programming will include “The NFL Today,” “Super Bowl Live,” “CBS Sports HQ,” “NFL Monday QB,” “That Other Pregame Show,” “We Need to Talk,” “The Jim Rome Show” and “Time to Schein.” The CBS News shows are “CBS Mornings,” “CBS Saturday Morning,” “CBS Evening News With Norah O’Donnell” and “CBS Stations and Affiliates.”

    CBS Entertainment will host “The Talk,” while CBS Media Ventures will host “The Drew Barrymore Show,” “Entertainment Tonight” and “Inside Edition.” The programming schedules will be released at a later date.

    In other roundup news:

    PROGRAMMING

    Max has released the trailer for Season 3 of its original comedy series “Sort Of,” premiering Jan. 18 on the streamer with the release of two episodes.

    “Sort Of” follows Sabi (Bilal Baig), a non-binary Pakistani-Canadian millennial navigating their work and personal life.

    The Season 3 synopsis reads, “Sabi comes to terms with feelings of grief and an unexpected sense of freedom following the death of their father. Without the constraints of living up to dad’s expectations, Sabi confronts big questions about their identity, prompting some massive life choices. In a season that has the entire ensemble grappling with aftermaths, a rebirth comes in a sort of messy, sort of hopeful, sort of ‘Sort Of’ way.”

    The series is a co-production with CBC and Sphere Media. In addition to starring, Baig also serves as co-creator, co-showrunner and executive producer alongside Fab Filippo. Jennifer Kawaja and Bruno Dubé of Sphere Media are also executive producers.

    Watch the trailer below.

    EXECUTIVE NEWS

    Legion Creative has announced several new additions as the agency expands into streaming, TV and video games.

    Karin Levinson and Dan Wolf have been appointed as co-heads of the newly established A/V and streaming division. Wolf will serve as creative director, with Levinson as executive producer within the newly formed department. Through years of their collaborative history, Wolf and Levinson have launched the agency’s A/V division focused on streaming, TV, theatrical and video games. The two have more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, with long-standing client relationships with Netflix, HBO/Max, Lionsgate, Disney and Warner Bros.

    They will join the agency’s recent print department expansion, along with the hires of Dustin Stanton and Annabelle Younan, whose portfolio includes campaigns for FX’s “American Horror Story,” “Mayans” and “Legion.”

    AWARDS

    Allen Media Group’s news and entertainment media platform theGrio has announced that nominations have opened for theGrio Heroes initiative, beginning Jan. 8. Submissions can be sent it in through Feb. 9.

    The initiative honors everyday heroes of African American descent who are impacting their communities, culture and humanity through service. Nominees who made an impact or continued to make an impact in 2023 are eligible to be considered.

    “We are committed to shining a spotlight on people whose actions speak louder than words,” said Byron Allen, founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group. “We celebrate unsung heroes whose stories inspire and uplift our society and significantly impact humanity for the greater good.”

    “There are many people who should be nominated and deserve recognition,” said Geraldine Moriba, senior vice president, news, entertainment and empowerment of theGrio. “I am thrilled we have the opportunity to honor those heroes in our local communities with unwavering commitment to positive change. Their steadfastness and resilience transforms lives.”

    The ten winners will be announced in April. Find out more information about theGrio Heroes here.

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    Caroline Brew

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  • Michael Jordan once told Julian Edelman not to botch his Super Bowl bet

    Michael Jordan once told Julian Edelman not to botch his Super Bowl bet

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    During his time on the hardwood, Michael Jordan was known as a fearless competitor. Whether he was chasing a championship or simply hanging out in the locker room, the NBA legend wanted to win and wasn’t going to accept anything less.

    Those standards, however, didn’t just apply to them and those on his team. His Airness also expects the best from those who he has money riding on. Allow former New England Patriots receiver Julian Edelman to explain.

    Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan looks on in the fourth quarter during their game against the Orlando Magic at Spectrum Center on March 03, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The NBA legend had a stern message for Julian Edelman ahead of Super Bowl XLIX.
    Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images

    Jordan Told Edelman Not to ‘F***’ the Super Bowl Up

    From afar, professional athletes can seem like larger-than-life superheroes. And while it’s easy to think that playing in the NFL can remove that sense of awe, some names simply pack a punch.

    For Edelman, Jeter and Jordan were two of those.

    “We’re playing the Super Bowl, 2014,” the former Patriot remembered on his Games With Names podcast. “You know, you have the night off on Friday. Usually take your folks out the week before the Super Bowl. I took my folks to dinner. I went to go see them, and I roll up, and I see Derek Jeter and Michael Jordan. And I’m like super starstruck.”

    The wideout went on to explain that he approached “Mr. Jeter,” and they had a brief conversation. And while the shortstop was “charming” and “welcoming,” Jordan kept his distance; Edelman remembered him as “kind of standoffish, a little bit.”

    But His Airness eventually approached.

    “As soon as the conversation’s about to end, like five minutes in, I’m about to leave, Jordan comes up to me,” the receiver added. “He goes, ‘Hey, kid. I got a bunch of money on you. Don’t f*** it up.’ And that’s the only thing he said to me.”

    And while that interaction does sound jarring—Edelman remembered simply replying “Yes sir, Mr. Jordan,” because he didn’t know what else to say—it does mesh with what we know of MJ. Beyond his fiery will to win, the NBA star was no stranger to gambling. If there was a chance to prove he was the best, he was going to take it.

    “I can stop gambling,” Jordan said in a 1993 interview with Connie Chung that was featured in The Last Dance. “I have a competition problem, a competitive problem.”

    Newsweek reached out to Jump Management via email to see if Jordan had any recollection of Edelman’s version of events.

    Without knowing exactly what wagers Jordan placed, it’s safe to assume that Edelman and the Patriots did their part.

    The receiver pulled in nine catches for 109 yards and a touchdown during Super Bowl XLIX (which technically took place in 2015, but it came at the conclusion of the 2014 campaign), and the Patriots secured a 28-24 victory thanks to a now-infamous final play call.

    As documented by CBS Sports, the Seahawks actually started out as the favorite in the big game, but bets on the Patriots pushed things to a “pick’em.” Even if Jordan bet after bookmakers started favoring New England, Edelman and his teammates still covered the spread.

    And, of course, it’s possible that he placed an early-season wager on the Patriots and simply needed New England to win the Super Bowl to cash in.

    Either way, though, it seems like Edelman did his part. When you have Michael Jordan, Bill Belichick and Tom Brady all expecting you to seal the deal, you’re not going to take it easy.