Grammy Winner Spotted at [Team Name] Game | Rapper News

J. Cole has reportedly joined the Nanjing Monkey Kings, a basketball team in China, according to a report from VIBE.com. The Grammy-winning rapper attended one of the team’s games this week, sparking speculation about his involvement, which has now been confirmed.

Details surrounding Cole’s contract with the team remain scarce, but the move marks a significant shift for the artist, who has long been known for his passion for basketball. He played college basketball at St. John’s University in New York City before pursuing his music career.

Cole’s Basketball Background

Cole’s love for basketball is well-documented. He often speaks about the sport in his music and has participated in various basketball-related events. In 2012, he attempted to join the NBA, but was ultimately unsuccessful. Despite not making a professional basketball roster, Cole continued to play recreationally and maintained his dedication to the sport.

The Nanjing Monkey Kings compete in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). The CBA has become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting both domestic and international talent. The league has previously featured former NBA players, and Cole’s arrival is expected to generate significant interest.

Grammy Win and Music Career

J. Cole has achieved considerable success in the music industry, winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Song in 2020 for “Middle Child.” He has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “2014 Forest Hills Drive” and “KOD,” and is known for his introspective lyrics and storytelling ability.

His decision to pursue a professional basketball career while at the peak of his musical success is unexpected, but it aligns with his long-held passion for the sport. It remains to be seen how Cole will balance his music career with his new basketball commitments.

Recent Grammy Awards Highlights

The 2026 Grammy Awards, hosted by Trevor Noah, saw Bad Bunny win Album of the Year for “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” marking the first time the award has been won for a Spanish-language album. Kendrick Lamar also had a successful night, taking home five awards. Several LGBTQ+ artists were also recognized, including Billie Eilish, Lola Young, Cynthia Erivo, and Doechii, according to PinkNews.

Fashion was also a prominent feature of the awards show, with stars like Chappell Roan and Katseye making memorable appearances on the red carpet. Olivia Dean won Best New Artist, accepting the award from Roan.

Elsewhere, rapper Megan Thee Stallion was hospitalized after becoming ill during a performance, as reported on Facebook. Lefty Gunplay received a Grammy award but was also recently sentenced to 13 years in prison, according to an Instagram post.

The Grammy Awards also saw Yungblud win Best Rock Performance for “Changes (Live From Villa Park)” with Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, Adam Wakeman, and II. Sabrina Carpenter delivered an extravagant performance of her nominated track “Manchild.”