Black Men Embrace Valentine’s Day with Authenticity and Evolving Traditions
Valentine’s Day, traditionally viewed through a female lens, is undergoing a shift in 2026, with Black men increasingly embracing the holiday as an opportunity for reciprocal love and appreciation. Rather than feeling obligated to participate, many are viewing February 14th as a chance to be intentionally celebrated and acknowledged.
The approach to romance is evolving, moving away from clichés and toward experiences that reflect individuality and cultural heritage. From home-cooked meals honoring culinary traditions to weekend getaways, the emphasis is on ensuring partners feel seen, respected, and loved.
This shift is reflected in recent high-profile engagements among Black athletes, offering inspiration and demonstrating a willingness to “love out loud.” These stories serve as a launching pad for others seeking deeper connections, and a reminder that Valentine’s Day can be a catalyst for taking relationships to the next level.
Donovan Mitchell and Coco Jones: A ‘Blessing’ Found
Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell and Grammy-winning singer-actress Coco Jones announced their engagement in July 2025, following the conclusion of Mitchell’s NBA season and the release of Jones’ debut album, Why Not More? Mitchell proposed during a vacation at a tropical seaside resort. He shared the moment on social media with a video of him kneeling, followed by a photo of the couple kissing at sunset, showcasing Jones’ beautiful diamond engagement ring.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Mitchell described his engagement as a “blessing.” “She’s amazing. She’s an amazing human being. She brings me peace,” Mitchell said. “She’s a special human. And you see it in her work, and to be able to call her my fiancée, my wife, is a blessing. So, I’m grateful.”
Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods: A New York Love Story
New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods announced their engagement on Christmas Day 2025 after five years of dating. The surprise proposal took place on the rooftop of Overstory, a cocktail bar in New York City, offering panoramic views of the skyline. The couple shared the news via Instagram, captioning their post “Marry Christmas,” alongside photos of Towns proposing with a massive emerald-cut diamond ring.
Towns told Heavy Sports that he values Wood’s intellectual curiosity. “I definitely like stimulating conversation; that’s always been my thing. That’s what me and Jordyn have always had. And that’s what’s kept us always on our toes,” Towns said.
Kyle Kuzma and Winnie Harlow: The ‘Model’ Couple
NBA star Kyle Kuzma and supermodel Winnie Harlow became engaged in February 2025, after a five-year courtship. Kuzma orchestrated a romantic proposal while traveling on a private jet toward Turks and Caicos for a Valentine’s Day and All-Star break getaway. The moment included a heartfelt poem written by Kuzma, followed by the presentation of a custom 8.5-carat oval-cut diamond engagement ring, surrounded by their families and fireworks.
“Basketball has taken me all over, but through it all, having that special person by my side has made all the difference,” Kuzma said.
Beyond these high-profile examples, a broader cultural shift is underway. According to recent analyses, many Black men prioritize emotional intimacy over material gifts. The emphasis is on thoughtful, personalized expressions of love that acknowledge individuality, culture, and emotional depth. This includes celebrating Black love as both a personal and political act, particularly given the historical marginalization of Black relationships.
The traditional Valentine’s Day emphasis on grand gestures is also being re-evaluated. Some are embracing “micro-dates” – quick, casual meetups – to save time and reduce pressure. Others are prioritizing experiences like axe throwing, pickleball, or cooking classes over traditional dinner dates. The language of dating is also evolving, with terms like “throning” and “shrekking” emerging to describe new relationship dynamics.
While spending on Valentine’s Day remains significant – consumers were expected to spend $27.5 billion last year, with the average shopper spending nearly $190 – the focus is shifting toward more meaningful connections and authentic expressions of love. For Black men, In other words prioritizing genuine appreciation and demonstrating love in ways that resonate with their partners, reflecting a deeper understanding of their needs and values.
