SPORTS

BMW XM SAV

Meet the 2023 BMW XM SAV with 644-Horsepower M Performance.

According to BMW and Franciscus van Meel, CEO BMW M GmbH, BMW M equates to emotion and motorsports. There is something magical, compelling, and artful about the BMW M performance division and its bevy of technological advancements. And with 50 years of engineering experience under its belt, the brand continues to evolve, innovate, and inspire with vehicles such as the all-new 2023 XM SAV, the first standalone BMW M since the venerable M1. Do you like the sound of 644-horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque from a 4.4-liter V8 plug-in hybrid drive system at your disposal? Well, starting at $159K, the XM’s powerful capabilities are available for your expressive lifestyle.

In Scottsdale, Arizona I had a chance to delve deeper into the consciousness of the XM buyer with Franciscus while experiencing the power of the dynamic SAV directly. If you are wondering, the XM is slated above the X5 M and X6 M and represents the most grandiose SAV in the BMW fleet. Similar to the BMW M Hybrid V8 racecar, the XM is electrified with plug-in architecture. And with the industry’s future shifting to zero emissions, expect more EVs from BMW M. In fact, the number one selling M last year was the all-electric BMW i4 M50. Franciscus says BMW M will continue to introduce electrified powertrains in upcoming M models to sit alongside the all-electric BMW iX M60 and the M760e xDrive plug-in hybrid. Moreover, by 2027 BMW will sell more Ms with a plug than without.

After a full day ripping the winding roads of Arizona, I can co-sign to the BMW XM’s opulence and incredible driving dynamics. Sharing the X7 platform but with different dimensions, the XM features a coupe-styled roofline, sharp edges, two-part headlights in combo with the BMW M kidney grille, and first-time vertical twin tailpipes. You will also find small dedications to the M1, such as the laser-engraved logos on the rear window. Onsite were a few XMs with the optional NightGold Metallic trim around the grille, along the body, and on the standard 23” M-light alloy rims (22” M aerodynamic wheels are no-cost optional). Some will like this package and others certainly will not. I’m still on the fence. The German automaker is producing the XMs locally at BMW Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina and will target large markets like the USA (26% of sales), China (23%), and the Middle East (8%).

“We are excited to add the first-ever BMW XM to our plant’s portfolio,” said Dr. Robert Engelhorn, president and CEO of BMW Manufacturing. “The modern, future-oriented design and powerful performance of the BMW XM has generated a lot of enthusiasm. As the center of competence for X models, BMW Plant Spartanburg is prepared to build this vehicle with the highest premium quality that our customers deserve.”

For extreme enthusiasts, a pompous BMW XM Label Red is coming this summer with red outlining and trim, 735 horses / 735 lb-ft of torque, particular hues, and unique interior materials. Expect to pay a bit over $185,000.

Like all BMW M cars and SUVs, the XM’s level of individualization is deep and technical. So naturally, you can precisely customize the preferred aggression or comfort you desire from the SAV. Its high-revving 4.4-liter V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo also features a 194-horsepower electric motor integrated within the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission to provide an all-electric range of 30 miles. Ideally, I would like to see the M HYBRID system extend that distance from its 5th-generation BMW eDrive technology to at least 75 miles. I’m sure this will occur once BMW releases the 6th gen battery packs in a few years. Additionally, three drive settings allow you to adjust the vehicle’s mannerisms: HYBRID driving mode, ELECTRIC driving mode, and eCONTROL mode. The famous red M1 and M2 buttons are at your disposal to further customize the drivetrain, energy recuperation, chassis, steering, braking, and M xDrive (4WD, 4WD Sport, and 4WD Sand). Additionally, operators of the XM can adjust shift speeds from six settings located on the gear selector, three in auto mode and three in manual mode.

On open roads the XM jumps out the gate like greyhounds; on curvaceous mountain paths it grips the pavement like geckos on a mission. Power is channeled through the rear-wheel biased M xDrive AWD. In addition, BMW enhanced the hands of the XM with an array of advanced driver packages that seemingly put all the driving skills into the SAV. These include an M Sport Differential, custom M Sport brakes, Integral Active Steering, Adaptive M Suspension Professional, and a high-tech Launch Control system. As a result, the XM can reach 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph or 168 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Inside the sports performance cockpit, the environment is simultaneously therapeutic and provocative. M multifunction seats are standard, a prism theme including the ceiling is noted throughout, M Lounge comfort in the rear is relaxing, and the 8th generation iDrive operated through the BMW Curved Display with M-specific content is more detailed than ever. In some areas it’s too complex as navigation highlights confusing augmented reality imagery. Coffee Brown Vintage leather dominates the dash, Matte Carbon surfaces and M logos and colors are strategically placed, and the Bowers & Wilkins audio system with seat-embedded speakers is spectacular. Every design enhancement has significant and impressionable implications.

The BMW M brand’s identity is omnipresent from the magnificence of the vehicles to the symbolism of the logo to the fashionable gear. The division represents far more than just racing performance on the road and track; it embodies lifestyle statements that resonate with emotional energy. The all-new 2023 BMW XM certainly adds to the diversity of M vehicle choices and enhances the lineup with authority, respect, and integrity.

Automotive Rhythms Kimatni Rawlins, 2023 BMW XM, Franciscus van Meel CEO BMW M GmbH, Thomas Plucinski, BMW M Motorsport, BMW M Hybrid V8, 2023 IMSA racing series, Automotive Rhythms, BMW racings, BMW motorsports, German race cars, The Ultimate Driving Machine, BMW race car, Head of BMW M Motorsport Andreas Roos, BMW M Hybrid V8, BMW M1, BMW M, BMW i4 M50, Bimmer, Bimmer Fest, Germans SUVs, BMW Blog, German auto Performance, The Ultimate Driving Machine, BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive, BMW brand, BMW Design, BMW M Competition package, BMW M Performance, BMW X-line Bimmer, Bimmers, Bmw life, BMW Lifestyle, BMW M, BMW idrive, Bavaria, Bavarian, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires, BMW SAVs, BMW SUVs, BMW 4.4-liter M TwinPower Turbo V8, BMW 8-speed M STEPTRONIC automatic transmission, BMW XM Label Red, BMW Plant Spartanburg.

Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, www.AutomotiveRhythms.com

Reebok’s 90s Blacktop

Reebok’s ‘90s “Blacktop” Basketball Collection Returns with “Shaq Attaq” April 14.

Reebok has confirmed an April 14 return for the Shaq Attaq “Blacktop” (HR0501, $180), a unique iteration of Shaq’s first signature basketball sneaker from Reebok’s iconic ‘90s “Blacktop” product range built for outdoor play.

Reebok first released “Blacktop” in 1991, applying distinct design elements like durable materials and vibrant color pops and patterning to complement the style of play, creativity, and attitude of players on the Blacktop, free from the walls (and rules) of a gymnasium. The 2023 Shaq Attaq “Blacktop” incorporates that same design language for OGs and a new generation.

Issued in ’92 for the larger-than-life rookie star, “Shaq Attaq” became Shaq’s first signature shoe. It combined new “Shaq” branding elements with innovative Reebok technologies like a custom-fit Pump bladder and carbon fiber footplate, putting on display Reebok’s disruptive approach to performance footwear. Most importantly, the shoe provided Shaq with best-in-class comfort and stability on court as he broke countless rims and records.

Reebok’s Shaq Attaq “Blacktop” (HR0501, $180) is available beginning April 14 from Foot Locker.

Reebok’s ‘Pump TZ’ Retro Hoops Shoe Returns in “Neon Cherry” April 14

Reebok has confirmed an April 14 return for its Pump TZ “Neon Cherry” (HQ8802, $170), an OG colorway for the iconic Pump basketball model from the early ‘90s.

Following its coveted 2022 collaboration with high-fashion house Maison Margiela and the model’s first general re-release since the early 2010’s this past February, Reebok’s Pump TZ returns once again this month, this time in its vibrant “Neon Cherry” colorway.

The eye-catching Pump TZ model first hit courts in 1990 with its distinct high-cut design, groundbreaking Pump technology, and TPU re-enforced upper placing it amongst the most disruptive performance basketball sneakers on the market during that time.

Reebok’s Pump TZ “Neon Cherry” (HQ8802, $170) is available beginning April 14 from Reebok.com, The Athletes Foot, EbLens and other select retailers.

CityPickle

Today CityPickle, New York City’s home for pickleball, and Wollman Park Partners are announcing that the country’s fastest-growing sport is coming to Wollman Rink in Central Park from April 7 to October 9.

Pickleball is played by people ages 8 to 88 and of diverse physical capabilities, making it a perfect fit for Central Park, one of New York City’s most democratic spaces. It combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong on a badminton-size court that requires a net, paddle and wiffle ball. Enjoying a day of pickleball requires no existing knowledge of the game.

CityPickle at Wollman Rink, presented by Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Related Companies and Equinox, represents the largest pickleball installation in the Northeast, with 14 courts that accommodate 4-8 people a piece from 7:00am-9:00pm ET – representing 196 hours of pickleball play available daily pending weather. Full price court rental options range from $80-$120 total per hour for off-peak and peak times respectively, translating to as little as $10 per person for an hour of play. Each game lasts approximately 10-15 minutes, offering the flexibility to share an hour of play with a rotating group of players. CityPickle custom paddles are available to rent for $6 per paddle, or players are welcome to bring their own. Court reservations will be available beginning March 31.

CityPickle programming includes lessons, clinics, open-play, leagues, and tournaments and offers countless opportunities for beginners to advanced players. A diverse slate of CityPickle coaches are available to teach and can be booked by visiting www.city-pickle.com. The venue will also accommodate birthday parties and corporate events.

CityPickle at Wollman Rink will welcome all New Yorkers and visitors. In addition, CityPickle and Wollman Park Partners are rolling out the season’s programmatic partnerships with several organizations– the Challenged Athletes Foundation, the Boys Club of New York, YMCA of Greater New York, Solutions Now, and Fountain House. The Challenged Athletes Foundation will have weekly, two-hour sessions this spring, including a CityPickle coach to help facilitate play among athletes playing in wheelchairs or with other physical challenges. The Boys Club of NY will bring campers to CityPickle at Wollman Rink each week as part of a continuous partnership throughout the summer. CityPickle is also training Boys Club staff so that they can continue to facilitate play offsite. YMCA, Solutions Now and Fountain house will also receive free courttime and instruction. CityPickle and Wollman Park Partners will continue to grow their roster of programmatic partners throughout the season to ensure delivering robust services to New York.

CityPickle has grown quickly since its launch with seasonal courts at Hudson Yards and TWA Hotel in Fall of 2022. CityPickle will open its first permanent location in Long Island City in late Spring of 2023, which combines indoor, climate controlled courts with a full bar and restaurant.

“Our mission when founding CityPickle was to bring pickleball to as many New Yorkers as possible,” said Co-Founder of CityPickle Mary Cannon. “Thanks to our partnership with Wollman Park Partners, we are thrilled to offer 196 hours of pickleball play each day in New York’s most iconic destination right in the center of Central Park,” said Co-Founder of CityPickle Erica Desai.

CityPickle at Wollman Rink is hosted by Wollman Park Partners — a joint venture between Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Related Companies and Equinox— which offers an energized, year-round experience of Wollman Rink to New Yorkers and visitors alike, with an emphasis on creating a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive space that promotes equitable economic opportunity in our City.

“Wollman Park Partners continues to transform an iconic piece of New York City – Wollman Rink – into a community asset that serves every New Yorker so they can enjoy popular programming at flexible prices. Our partnership with CityPickle captures that spirit and brings to life one of the world’s fastest-growing sports for individuals and families across the city,” said Josh Harris and David Blitzer, Founders of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment.

“Equinox was founded on the notion that fitness can empower a life well lived. In collaboration with Wollman Park Partners and CityPickle, we are excited to bring the country’s fastest-growing sport to the very heart of our city at Wollman Rink, and most importantly help bring joy to our New York community this summer.” said Harvey Spevak, Executive Chairman & Managing Partner, Equinox Group.

“As pickleball takes New York by storm, we’re happy to add this fun, accessible sport to Wollman Rink’s growing slate of offerings in partnership with CityPickle. Bringing a new activation to Wollman Rink is another example of why we’re so excited to be a part of this iconic New York institution – our city is about innovation and excitement – and that’s exactly what we’re proud to bring this summer,” said Jeff Blau, CEO of Related Companies.

As in seasons past, food and drink will be provided by Great Performances.

The venue offers many ways to host events including birthday parties, family gatherings, and corporate team building. Nine private courtside cabanas are also available to rent for socializing and special occasions. The cabanas come with certain courts to maximize opportunities for people to take advantage of the communal nature of pickleball.

CityPickle at Wollman Rink offers a professional-level playing experience. Court sponsor PickleballUnited, the official court partner for MLP and APP professional leagues, is providing the 14 court surfaces. C&D Nets, CityPickle’s net sponsor and the official pickleball nets of the PPA and APP professional tour, is providing the nets.

Partners, Elected officials, advocates and others hailed this announcement:

“Pickleball is a sport that became immensely popular after the pandemic – it’s a fun, fast-paced sport that’s easy to pick up and accessible for players of all ages and abilities. We’re thrilled to see pickleball coming to Central Park’s Wollman Rink, a highly visible and well-loved space that is a destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue.

About CityPickle:

CityPickle is New York City’s home for the country’s fastest growing sport. As the first indoor pickleball club in the city, CityPickle will combine climate-controlled courts with a full bar and restaurant, making it the ideal indoor destination to connect and spend quality time with friends, family and colleagues alike. CityPickle’s first permanent location launches in spring 2023 in Long Island City following the launch of CityPickle at Wollman Rink. CityPickle was previously activated at both Hudson Yards and TWA Hotel in Fall of 2022.

About Wollman Park Partners, LLC:

Wollman Park Partners (WPP) is a coalition of New Yorkers representing decades of experience across multiple sectors; including sports and entertainment; finance; health and wellness; diversity, equity, and inclusion; real estate; culinary; non-profit; youth development and sustainability. The companies and organizations that make up WPP include Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Related Companies, Equinox, Ice Hockey in Harlem, Figure Skating in Harlem, Great Performances, Melba’s Restaurant, YMCA of Greater New York, The Boys’ Club of New York and Green City Force.

With this expertise, and a deep passion for New York City, WPP offers an energized, year-round experience of Wollman Rink NYC to both New Yorkers and visitors alike, with an emphasis on creating a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive space that promotes equitable economic opportunity and recovery in our City.

PUMA × SPONGEBOB

New Collaboration with PUMA and SpongeBob SquarePants is a Jellyfishing Adventure

PUMA is teaming up with the one and only SpongeBob SquarePants for a new collection of playful classics, created in collaboration with the beloved Nickelodeon series and Paramount Consumer Products. The collaboration channels floral prints and sunny, summery colors throughout, while select pieces from the PUMA x SpongeBob SquarePants collection feature SpongeBob and Patrick on a jellyfishing adventure.

Featuring designs for both adults and kids, the collection includes a special suite of PUMA sneakers paying homage to SpongeBob and Patrick. Footwear highlights include the Suede, Slipstream, RS-Slide, Future Rider, and others that are elevated with SpongeBob detailing, while Patrick Star gets his own version of the Rider FV.

The footwear component is complemented by apparel silhouettes like the T7 tracksuit, plus essentials like T-shirts and hoodies. Lastly, accessories are included in the form of a bucket hat and utility pouch, rounding out a collection that is made for Bikini Bottom and beyond.

PUMA x SpongeBob SquarePants collection is available starting March 17, 2023 from PUMA.com, PUMA stores, and select accounts worldwide with retail prices ranging from $20 to $100.

#PUMAxSPONGEBOB

PUMA

PUMA is one of the world’s leading sports brands, designing, developing, selling and marketing footwear, apparel and accessories. For 75 years, PUMA has relentlessly pushed sport and culture forward by creating fast products for the world’s fastest athletes. PUMA offers performance and sport-inspired lifestyle products in categories such as Football, Running and Training, Basketball, Golf, and Motorsports. It collaborates with renowned designers and brands to bring sport influences into street culture and fashion. The PUMA Group owns the brands PUMA, Cobra Golf and stichd. The company distributes its products in more than 120 countries, employs about 18,300 people worldwide, and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach/Germany.

About Paramount Consumer Products

Paramount Consumer Products oversees all licensing and merchandising for Paramount (Nasdaq: PARA, PARAA), a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide. Driven by iconic consumer brands, Paramount Consumer Products’ portfolio includes a diverse slate of brands and content from BET, CBS (including CBS Television Studios and CBS Television Distribution), Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and Showtime. With properties spanning animation, live-action, preschool, youth, and adult, Paramount Consumer Products is committed to creating the highest quality product for some of the world’s most beloved, iconic franchise. Additionally, Paramount Consumer Products oversees the online direct-to-consumer business for CBS and Showtime programming merchandise, as well as standalone branded e-commerce websites for Star Trek, SpongeBob, South Park, and MTV.

Puma and SpongeBob collaboration via 360 Magazine. — PUMA × SpongeBob collaboration via 360 MAGAZINE.

Daddy Yankee × WBC

Latin music icon Daddy Yankee has been named the new global ambassador for 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC).

The World Baseball Classic is the ultimate collection of premier international baseball talent, so what better stage to unite the global impact that Daddy Yankee has had as an artist to the worldwide reach of this premier international tournament. As a passionate baseball fan, Daddy Yankee looks to use the unique opportunity that the tournament brings to help showcase and connect cultures that embrace the game of baseball.

As a culture creator, game changer, and groundbreaker, Daddy Yankee has consistently inspired, impacted, and influenced generations of creators. An indisputable icon, he remains one of the most influential personalities of all time, bringing reggaeton worldwide for the first time. After changing the face of Latin music forever, he leaves on the highest note possible in 2022 with his twelfth full-length offering and final album, LEGENDADDY, brought to life with his farewell tour, LA ÚLTIMA VUELTA (The Last Round). “La Última Vuelta” wrapped as his biggest ever with $198M in grosssales. La Última Vuelta World Tour finished as the second-biggest tour by a Latin artist in Boxscore history over 88 shows in 2022.

As part of the special role in this year’s tournament, “Chispa,” produced by Daddy Yankee and award-winning producing duo Play-N-Skilz, will serve as the World Baseball Classic anthem and be featured across WBC & MLB social platforms and content, in-park activations and presentations and throughout broadcast coverage of the WBC. DaddyYankee is also expected to attend several games played at loanDeportpark in Miami throughout the tournament, including throwing out the first pitch on SundayMarch 12 before the Venezuela vs. Puerto Rico game at 7:00 PM ET.

Play-N-Skillz, the Latin/American record production/DJ group duo consisting of brothers Juan “Play” Salinas and Oscar “Skillz” Salinas, produced “Chispa” with Daddy Yankee. Their production has won several Grammys including the Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2007 and the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2008. The brothers act as creative directors at CTM Latin Music Publishing while also gaining a position of ownership in the company. In March of 2022 the duo produced and wrote 6 songs on the album “LEGENDADDY” the last album for Daddy Yankee which debut #1 in the world.

The World Baseball Classic is the premier international baseball tournament, sanctioned by the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), as the sport’s official National Team World Championship, and features the best players in the world competing for their home countries and territories. More than 3.4 million fans from all over the world have attended the tournament games, held in March 2006, March 2009, March 2013 and March 2017. Team USA is the reigning World Baseball Classic Champion after beating runner-up Puerto Rico during its 2017 championship run, joining previous tournament champions Team Japan (2006 and 2009) and Team Dominican Republic (2013). The 2023 World Baseball Classic will again feature the world’s greatest baseball-playing countries and territories.

ABOUT DADDY YANKEE:

As a culture creator, game changer, agent of change, and groundbreaker, Daddy Yankee has consistently inspired, impacted, and influenced generations of creators. An indisputable icon, he remains one of the most influential artists of all time, bringing reggaeton worldwide for the first time. Latin music and culture would not look, sound, or feel the same without him. It’s hard to even imagine the genre itself without “Gasolina,” “Despacito” [with Luis Fonsi], or “Con Calma” [with Snow], and more.

Since 1995, he has consistently conquered charts, toppled records, and made history on his own terms. The magnitude of his accolades proves nearly impossible to match or exceed. Living up to the title of “King of Reggaeton,” he has moved north of 30 million records as “one of the best-selling Latin music artists of all-time.” Out of hundreds of awards, he has scored five Latin GRAMMY® Awards, two Billboard Music Awards, 14 Billboard Latin Music Awards, two Latin American Music Awards (including the Icon Award), eight Lo Nuestro Awards, an MTV VMA, and six ASCAP Awards in addition to earning a spot on the Puerto Rican Walk of Fame and the“Presencia Latina” at Harvard University. He also stands out as “the only Latin Artist with four Spanish-language entries on the Top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100.” He received “Songwriter of the Year” three times at the 2021 ASCAP Latin Music Awards and distinguished himself as “the first urban Latino artist to enter the Billboard Hall of Fame.”

Most importantly, he runs and leads his charity “Daddy’s House,” which Billboard commended with the Spirit of Hope Award.

After changing the face of Latin music forever, he leaves on the highest note possible in 2022 with his twelfth full-length offering and final album, LEGENDADDY, brought to life with his farewell tour, LA ÚLTIMA VUELTA (The Last Round). The album combines the essence of Reggaeton with salsa, dancehall, rap, trap bachata, EDM, and Caribbean music like never before.

Reebok Basketball – Collegiate Pack

Iconic School Exclusive Sneakers From the ‘90’s and ‘00s, Available March 25

Reviving four iconic hardwood sneakers worn by the nation’s top colleges throughout the ‘90s and ‘00s, the pack includes:

Question Mid ‘White/Green’ (ID6690, $170) – This coveted white/green iteration of Allen Iverson’s first signature shoe was worn throughout a dominant ’99 – ‘00 tournament run. (Full-family sizing. Available exclusively from Reebok.com, Foot Locker, and Champs Sports.)

Pump Omni Zone II ‘White/Blue’ (IG7891, $170) – This early ’90s version of Dee Brown’s historic Pump basketball shoe dons a classic southeastern color combo of blue and white. (Adult sizing. Available from Reebok.com and select retailers.)

Answer DMX (HR1061, $170) & Hurrikaze II (ID1529, $130) ‘Blue/Gold’ – These Cali blue/gold iterations of Allen Iverson’s Answer DMX and the bold Hurrikaze II were donned out west in the mid-late ‘90s. (Adult sizing. Available exclusively from Reebok.com and Foot Locker.

Reebok’s “Collegiate Pack” is available beginning March 25 from Reebok.com, with select styles available exclusively from Foot Locker and Champs Sports.

Super Bowl at W Scottsdale

With millions of us holding our breath for the Rihanna NFL Super Bowl performance at half time, Playboy brilliantly created a mesmerizing weekend of events.

After the first three nights of the Pepsi Zero Sugar & E11even Miami by Cardi B and G-Eazy, including debut night with Rick Ross, the illustrious W Scottsdale embraced multi-hyphenate global sensation Ludacris on the schedule for the fourth night during the Playboy annual Big Game Weekend party.

Luda sang for 45 minutes all his greatest hits and had the crowd up singing and dancing along.

Songs: What’s Your Fantasy, Roll Out, Area Codes, Stand Up, Get Back, Money Maker, and more.

-G-Eazy performing at Pepsi Zero Sugar at W Scottsdale powered by E11Even Miami via 360 MAGAZINE.

Upon entering the stage, Ludacris dripped into designer duds from the Supreme x Playboy collection while rocking avant-garde shades and commanded the attention of the public with his hit list. As the crowd grew more and more enthusiastic and frantically waved its hands toward the sky, some of today’s most prolific sports stars could be seen savoring coveted artisanal cocktails. And sprinkled throughout, a handful of the brightest in Hollywood has been spotted mixing and nibbling. Guests couldn’t seem to get enough of the scrumptious Cookie Pop and Candy Pop treats which came in an assortment of flavors, the all new Cereal Pop Fruity Pebbles, plus signature Snickers, Sour Patch Kids, OREO, M&Ms, Twix and Butterfinger.

Dale Moss from The Bachelor on the carpet with the Cereal Pop promo girls before Cardi B's performance via 360 MAGAZINE. — Dale Moss from The Bachelor on the carpet with the Cereal Pop promo girls before Cardi B’s performance via 360 MAGAZINE.

After the completion of his set, Ludacris made us blush as he wiped the beads of sweat from his face.

W Scottsdale hosted a memorable weekend of shows with a plethora of immersive installations provided by Playboy that will forever be ingrained in our minds. Certainly a fashionable evening largely within the framework of the gracious organizers and the attentive team of the establishment.

About the Event

The concert series continued the exciting lineup of events being held during W Scottsdale’s Super Week, which debuted with Rick Ross’ Suits and Sneakers event on February 8th, and followed with G-Eazy on February 9th presented by Pepsi Zero Sugar, also powered by E11even Miami, and Cardi B. on Friday, February 10th powered by E11even and presented by Friday Beers with red carpet host Camille Kostek and featuring a Pizza Hut pop-up bar. All in partnership with Riot Hospitality Group and Relentless Beats, Arizona’s top independent concert Promotor agency founded by Thomas Turner.

About W Scottsdale (www.wscottsdalehotel.com)

W Scottsdale marks the debut of W Hotels in Arizona. This sultry Southwest oasis, where innovative design mixes with urban sophistication, features 241 guest rooms including 44 lavish suites. A true insider escape, W Scottsdale boasts Arizona’s only Sushi Roku restaurant, and W Hotels The Store and offers three chic destination bars – Living Room Lounge, Cottontail Lounge and Wet Deck. Located in downtown Scottsdale, W Scottsdale provides guests access to discover the city’s high-profile shopping, innovative restaurants, eclectic arts district and vibrant nightlife. Signature services and amenities include the Whatever/Whenever® concierge service, Wheels® valet, FIT® fitness center, WET®, WIRED Business Center and P.A.W. – Pets Are Welcome™. For more information, visit www.wscottsdalehotel.com or call to schedule a reservation 877 W HOTELS.

*Featured image: Ludacris performing at Playboy at Cottontail Lounge at W Scottsdale.

Wheelz: “Real Sports”

Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham, “People are always gonna stare at me… so I might as well do something cool” (click to watch & share)

REAL SPORTS WITH BRYANT GUMBEL returns TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21

at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and is available to stream on HBO Max

For up-to-the-minute updates about REAL SPORTS, follow on Twitter at @RealSportsHBO or join the conversation using #RealSports, and on HBO.com/realsports and Facebook.com/RealSportsHBO.

February segments include:

Wheelz: “Real Sports” profiles the godfather of extreme wheelchair sports, Aaron “Wheelz” Fotheringham, who finds freedom jumping, flipping, and crashing in competition. Born with spina bifida and given up for adoption as an infant, Wheelz has used his challenges as fuel to reach new heights while inspiring others along the way. Correspondent Mary Carillo reports. Producer: Beret Remak.

A Blind Eye: “Real Sports” examines why nearly all of the world’s sports federations, including FIFA, have chosen to make Switzerland their home, and looks into allegations that the Swiss government’s hands-off approach has led to rampant corruption and bribery scandals. Correspondent David Scott reports. Producer: Josh Fine.

North Shore Lifeguards: The North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii is considered the greatest surfing coast on Earth. It’s also one of the most dangerous, where the difference between life and death often comes down to the lifeguards who regularly dive into massive waves to rescue bloodied and injured surfers. Correspondent Jon Frankel reports. Producer: Jordan Kronick.

Work to Ride (Update): Twenty years ago, “Real Sports” first featured Work to Ride – an extraordinary program that teaches the upper-crust sport of polo to at-risk inner-city youth in Philadelphia. This past fall, Work to Ride held its inaugural Philadelphia Polo Classic that drew in thousands of spectators around the city to support the program. The program has now graduated over one hundred kids and equipped them with skills to live better lives. Correspondent Mary Carillo reports. Producer: Hannah Vicente-Kliot.

The executive producer of REAL SPORTS WITH BRYANT GUMBEL is Joe Perskie.

LV Accessories

Louis Vuitton’s fresh off the runway and recently-dropped collections.

From the recently debuted Yayoi Kusama collaboration, to the latest in menswear such including the LV Skate Sneakers and 4MOTION high-tech sunglasses, and women’s Capsule Collections like LV Ski, Louis Vuitton has you covered for any trend pages or photoshoots in the pipeline.

We encourage you to discover Louis Vuitton’s Ready-to-Wear and Accessory offerings.

Louis Vuitton skater sneakers via 360 MAGAZINE.

Reebok × Botter

Reebok x Botter Concept Sneaker Engineered by HP Serves as a Sign of Innovation to Come

Coming out of Paris Fashion Week, Reebok, HP and the New Guards Group revealed a new concept sneaker with luxury brand, Botter that debuted on the runway at its FW23 presentation.

Fusing the ethos of both brands, the Reebok x Botter concept sneaker combines Botter’s love and commitment to the ocean through the unique look of a Murex seashell, an object that in legend, was used by the Greek Goddess Venus to comb her hair, with an iconic vintage Reebok football silhouette, a style that Botter is famed for reinventing with its Botter “Banker” that debuted in 2017.

The unusual and unique new form encapsulating the core shoe has been created and engineered with the HP 3D Printing team based in Barcelona using a technology called HP Multi Jet Fusion. Once printed, the gray sneakers were then hand-painted to complement the Caribbean Sea tones featured throughout Botter’s FW23 collection.

The end result is not just an innovative luxury piece, but a sustainable alternative to traditional sneaker production. The HP Multi Jet Fusion is a function created to reinvent design and manufacturing by unlocking the full potential of 3D printing and exploring techniques that are more energy efficient and sustainable. The process revolves around having no waste, uses a material called TPU that is highly-reusable once recycled, and is nimble enough to make products post-sale that can solve excessive production.

“HP has built a team of footwear industry specialists, under the lead of Don Albert, a 25-year footwear veteran. This team has developed an end-to-end solution to help large and small footwear companies in fashion and performance to reach their goals using HP Multi Jet Fusion Technology,” shared François Minec, Global Head of Polymers at HP Personalization & 3D Printing. “We enable new levels of design freedom, fast and agile product development, and a more sustainable local manufacturing process. This collaboration with Reebok and Botter is a perfect introduction of the HP solution to the footwear world.”

Speaking to the multi-brand collaboration, Nathan Jobe, Head of Footwear at NGG++ commented, “NGG and Reebok have a rich history in Street and Fashion culture. It is important to find like-minded souls in the world to partner with. Botter is very much part of our community. We were happy to be able to support their show and showcase the incredible technology of HP while doing it. This partnership really outlines a journey that thrives through design and celebrates culture and heritage to envision the future. We can’t wait to build more with them.”

“We are very excited to join forces with Reebok and envision a new future of footwear and apparel together. We aim to push the boundaries of technology and sustainability while embracing the legacy of Reebok,” added Rushemy Botter and Lisi Herrebrugh, Botter.

The Reebok x Botter Concept Sneaker Engineered by HP is a project that represents the first leap into innovation, sustainability, and fashion Reebok is taking with the New Guards Group since the company’s acquisition by the Authentic Brands Group (Authentic). This debut at PFW serves as an exciting sign of things to come.

“We knew partnering with New Guards Group would allow us to push the needle, bringing consumers fresh new concepts and unexpected collaborations,” said Todd Krinsky, CEO & President of Reebok. “I’m incredibly energized by what we’ve been able to accomplish in such a short amount of time and this latest release with Botter and HP gives a small taste of what’s to come in this long-term partnership.”