The spirit of worship, joy, and community filled the air on February 14, 2025, as the All-Star Gospel Celebration marked its 18th year in Berkeley, CA. Hosted by the dynamic NBA couple Mo and Dru Evans, the evening brought together powerful performances, heartfelt tributes, and a strong sense of love for the Bay Area.
The celebration opened when Major took the stage, delivering an emotional and impactful performance of “I Pray for You”, a part of his heartfelt love letter to the Bay Area. With his soaring vocals and deep sincerity, he reminded the community of the power of prayer and unity.
A highlight of the evening came with Dru Evans calling the audience into worship, inviting the Holy Spirit into the space. Stellar Award-winning artist Lena Byrd Miles, a Bay Area treasure, set the tone with her soulful rendition of “This Is the Day”, reminding everyone to rejoice and give thanks. She then moved the crowd with her hit “W.O.W – Walk on Water”, delivering a powerful message:
“Don’t be afraid… walk on water, do the work, put your faith to work. Nothing is stopping [you] but [you].”
The audience was so moved that they joined Lena in a three-part encore, filling the venue with praise, power, and encouragement.
The night was also a celebration of those making a difference offstage. Several awards were presented to local heroes who embody service, resilience, and faith:
Cecilia Apelin, owner & CEO Ciel Creative Space, received the Hometown Hero Award. As a part of the recognition for hosting this event at her women-owned venue, a place known for making dreams come true. She was commended for Ciel Creative Space design and innovation firm leading and holding significant space in the creative industry.
Ay’anna Moody received the Slam Dunk Community Service Award for her outstanding service to the Bay Area. As the Senior Director of Social Impact for the Warriors Community Foundation, she passionately works to create educational and career opportunities for underserved youth.
Steve Hagler, founder of Learn Up Centers, was honored with the Hometown Hero Award for his tireless work advocating for the Bay Area youth literacy crisis. His motto, “Reading is a right, not a privilege”, continues to inspire change through educational initiatives and tutoring programs. These programs aren’t only for youth but for adults as well. Learn more by visiting learnupcenters.org.
The evening balanced worship with joy as comedian J-Red, the “King of Clean Comedy,” had the audience laughing and celebrating with a “holy ghost party”. In honor of Black History Month, he led the crowd in a powerful call-and-response:
“Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m proud!”
Bay Area rapper Miles Minnick kept the energy high with his Christ-centered, hyphy-style performance, reminding everyone that “Worship isn’t a genre” and that faith and joy can move through every beat and rhythm.
A special appearance by Canadian social media comedian and singer Ariel Fitz-Patrick added joy and inspiration to the evening. She performed her songs and shared her heartfelt testimony of how God continues to carry her, vowing to always give Him the praise.
The 2025 Slam Dunk Awards celebrated NBA stars making an impact beyond the court:
Both athletes praised God for their success, with Gary Payton reminding the audience:
“God had a lot to do with my success, [my success was] not just my talent.”
A deeply moving moment came when Pastor Mike McBride and rapper Mistah F.A.B. were recognized as Hometown Heroes for uniting the church and the streets in a call to end gun violence. Pastor McBride’s message echoed through the room:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.”
The evening also shined a light on local entrepreneurship and creativity:
The prestigious Slam Dunk Living Legend Award went to 12x All-Star Elvin Hayes, who gave glory to God for his long and injury-free career.
The night ended with a heartfelt finale as Major and saxophonist Angella Christie closed with “This Is Why I Love You”, joined by other the performers in a beautiful chorus that felt like a love letter to the Bay Area.
Before the evening ended, Bay Area NBA chaplains honored Tamika B. Holyfield for her 18 years of service and dedication to the community. The event closed in prayer, acknowledging that the true guest of honor was Jesus Christ.
The 2025 All-Star Gospel Celebration wasn’t just an event—it was an experience, a testimony, and a powerful reminder that through faith, service, and community, we are unstoppable.
Here’s to 18 years—and many more to come!
