2025 NAACP Image Awards: NAACP Image Awards Week Tees Off with Star-Studded Golf Invitational
The countdown to the 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards is officially underway, and what better way to kick off the celebration than with a little friendly competition on the green? On Tuesday, February 18, the NAACP Golf Invitational, presented by Wells Fargo, brought together a powerhouse lineup of celebrities, athletes, and industry leaders for a day of golf, camaraderie, and celebration of Black excellence.
Setting the tone for the day, NAACP Hollywood Bureau Senior Vice President Kyle Bowser welcomed NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and the ever-inspiring Tabitha Brown to the Clubhouse Lounge main stage for an engaging breakfast conversation.
With a focus on diversity in the sport and the broader impact of Black achievement across industries, the discussion laid the foundation for a day dedicated to breaking barriers and uplifting the culture.
"Today, we honor the game of golf and celebrate Black excellence in sports, entertainment, and beyond,” said Johnson.
“As we pave the way for the future of this beloved sport, we reaffirm our commitment to breaking barriers and showcasing the talent and achievements of our community. Together, we move forward—honoring our past, embracing our present, and championing a future where everyone has a fair shot at success.”
New to the invitational this year was NAACP Icon Row, a tribute to Black trailblazers who have made lasting contributions to business and social justice. This addition added another layer of inspiration to an already meaningful event.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Celebrity Golf Invitational without a little star power. This year’s tournament featured 21 five-player teams, each captained by a celebrity who led their squad through an 18-hole scramble format. The lineup? Absolutely stacked! From the comedic brilliance of Chris Tucker and Marlon Wayans to sports legends like Byron Scott, Derek Fisher, Brian Shaw, and Metta World Peace, the competition was fierce—but all in good fun. Adding to the mix were R&B icon Johnny Gill, media maven Tabitha Brown, former WNBA star Ty Young, and more, each bringing their A-game to the green.
We’ve got all the highlights and exclusive moments from the NAACP Celebrity Golf Invitational—so keep scrolling as we recap the day with the best photos from the course.
The Stars Popped Out And Showed Em'
Clearly it looked like a family reunion with all the celebrities out and about on Tuesday for the NAACP Golf Invitational. From Tabitha Brown, Ty Young, Chris Tucker, Matt Barnes, and a few others, it seemed like a bunch of friends reconnecting and spending some great, Blackity Black, quality time with each other.
Dr. J Still Has It!
This may not have been the basketball court, but Dr. J tee'd up and looked dapper while getting a few holes in one. These men look like they are about to either crush the court, or bet big dollars at the country club. Get with the winning team.
The CEO Takes His Rightful Place
Opening remarks and conversations at the NAACP Golf Invitational couldn't be complete without the CEO, Derrick Johnson, with his mic in hand. And he also looks like he's been in the gym, okay arms?!?
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Top Of The Morning With Kyle Bowser
Getting your day started early with a healing conversation with Senior Vice President of the NAACP Hollywood Bureau, Kyle Bowser, CEO and President of the NAACP, Derrick Johsnon, and vegan foodie and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown is a way to wake up. Get you some fruit and be nourished by these bright minds.
Geoffrey Is On Vacation For A Bit
Bel-Air star Jimmy Akingbola put Geoffrey to rest and stepped out in his own ravishing attire as he was clearing thinking of his next move on the course. You can tell by his smile he has a game plan already in place.
Byron Scott, Los Angeles Lakers legend and NBA superstar, and Seema Sadekar, professional golfer, personality, and Vice President of PGD Global welcomed attendees and acknowledged Los Angeles’ healing process following the recent fires. It's great that even in the midst of fun, we always hold space for those who may have lost or in need.
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Melanated And Educated
Look at Tabitha Brown and Derrick Johnson all cozy on the stage dropping them gems early in the morning. We love to see it. And they look all moisturized!
