• BE The Game

by Edwian Stokes

August 10, 2026

NBA Champs Metta World Peace And Michael Cooper Take Leadership Roles At Cal State LA

Two former Los Angeles Lakers champions will boost the university’s Division II athletics brand.

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California State University, Los Angeles has strengthened its athletic department by appointing former Lakers forward Metta World Peace as associate head coach for women’s basketball. He joins Michael Cooper, who now leads the men’s basketball program as head coach.

The addition of these championship-caliber leaders at Cal State LA sets a standard for institutional advancement. By attracting top professional talent, the university aims to strengthen student-athlete leadership, expand corporate partnerships, and increase donor engagement in East Los Angeles.

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Executive Leadership On and Off the Court

World Peace, formerly Ron Artest, was introduced in a joint Instagram announcement on July 18 by the university and coach. A key contributor to the Lakers’ 2010 NBA championship, he brings professional skill and a commitment to mental health advocacy to a Golden Eagles team that finished 24-7 last season and won the California Collegiate Athletic Association tournament.

“From Queensbridge, New York to Los Angeles, CA. From NBA Champion to CCAA Tournament Champion. Moment of silence for the champions,” World Peace stated in the post, stressing his journey and devotion to high-level performance.

World Peace joins head coach Torino Johnson’s staff after serving as a player development coach for the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League, according to Yahoo Sports. His appointment strengthens the women’s program and supports recruiting top student-athletes.

On the men’s side, Cooper was promoted to head coach on April 8 after serving as associate head coach since the 2023-2024 season. A five-time NBA champion and three-time champion head coach in the WNBA and G League, Cooper views his role as an opportunity to develop future leaders on and off the court.

“Our mission at Cal State LA is to build leaders, build belief, and show what Cal State LA stands for,” Cooper said during his introductory press conference, according to official coverage from Cal State LA Athletics. “Cal State LA represents the heart of this great city with its hard-working, diverse, and ambitious student-athletes. We’re going to build a program that will make the university proud of us.”

Building Brand Equity and Community Impact

Hiring prominent figures like Cooper and World Peace supports the university’s long-term fundraising and brand-building efforts. At the press conference, when former Lakers teammate A.C. Green asked how alumni and supporters could help, Cooper responded simply: “Open your pocketbook.”

“We need to raise money for our programs,” Cooper said, outlining his organizational priorities in statements tracked by X Corp media reports. “We need to get in the community and build relationships, get more fans in the stands, and create more awareness for Cal State LA.”

Cal State LA President Berenecea Johnson Eanes emphasized that Cooper’s strong community ties bring authentic executive leadership to the student body. Cooper’s operational approach is based on core principles he calls the “Five D’s”: determination, dedication, desire, discipline, and decision-making.

“Those can apply to anything you do in your athletic endeavors,” Cooper said, “but you can make those Five D’s work for you off the court—in your everyday life, in your religious life, anything you want to be successful in.”

RELATED CONTENT: Metta World Peace Learned A Valuable Lesson In His Failure To Invest

• Money

by Sidnee Michelle

August 10, 2026

Gen Z And Millennials Are Betting On Stocks As Homeownership Slips Away

Americans younger than 40 now hold a record $3.09 trillion in stocks.

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Americans younger than 40 now hold a record $3.09 trillion in stocks as soaring home prices push more Gen Z and millennial investors to view brokerage accounts and stocks as a stepping stone to wealth, while homeownership becomes increasingly difficult to achieve, Fortune reports.

Federal Reserve data shows equities now account for 27% of the net worth of households under 40, the highest share since the central bank began tracking the data in 1989. The shift reflects growing housing affordability challenges that are forcing many younger Americans to rethink how they build long-term wealth.

Home prices have climbed roughly 235% since January 2000, according to the outlet, while fewer than half of Gen Z and millennial households can afford to purchase a home. The median age of a first-time homebuyer also increased from 28 in 1992 to 40 in 2025.

“For younger adults who despair about ever being able to buy a home, investing in financial markets can be a great way to save until they can afford one,” Chen Zhao, Redfin’s head of economics research, told the outlet.

The financial pressures are already reshaping behavior. Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning & Progress Study found that 31% of Gen Z adults have delayed buying a home because of financial constraints, while 34% worry homeownership isn’t a reality for them. More than half of millennials also report having to choose between saving for retirement and purchasing a home.

George Eckerd, research director for wealth and markets at the JPMorganChase Institute, told Fortune that rising stock ownership represents a significant shift in how younger Americans are accumulating wealth. A 2025 Redfin survey found 1 in 5 Gen Z and millennial homebuyers sold stock investments to help finance a down payment, roughly double the share of baby boomers.

Financial advisers caution, however, that equities should complement—not replace—a long-term financial plan. Douglas Boneparth, president of Bone Fide Wealth, warned that some younger investors frustrated by the housing market may pursue higher-risk investments, including meme stocks, cryptocurrency, and leveraged trades, instead of diversified portfolios.

The trend also highlights persistent wealth disparities. Eckerd’s research found that lower-income households and Black communities often enter both the housing and stock markets later in economic cycles, limiting their ability to benefit from long-term asset appreciation even as investing becomes more accessible through digital platforms.

RELATED CONTENT: Mortgage Rates Drop To Lowest In A Month As Refinancing Demand Climbs

• Video

by Kenneth Meeks

August 10, 2026

Robert L. Johnson’s Business Strategy Created Multigenerational Wealth For Employees

Former BET Founder Bob Johnson single-handedly created the largest number of African American millionaires in the history of Black business.

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Robert L. Johnson made history in several ways, but none have touched the lives of our community more than his greatest achievement. He is the country’s first African American billionaire and is responsible for more Blacks becoming millionaires than any other person in the history of this country. Black Entertainment Television, the company Johnson founded in 1980, also made history as the first Black company to be listed on the NYSE. Since selling BET to Viacom in 2001, Johnson has embarked on his “second act.” And along the way, he continues to build multigenerational wealth for his employees. He’s founder and chairman of The RLJ Companies and is the only CEO in the history of BLACK ENTERPRISE to have three companies on the BE 100s, a listing of the nation’s largest Black-owned companies. As we approach the 10^th anniversary of the XCEL Summit for Men, Johnson will be honored this year with an XCEL Award. A long-time friend of BE, we revisit his conversation with CEO Earl “Butch” Graves, Jr., when he detailed his strategy that made those employees millionaires 25 years ago. Click on the video below and hear directly how you can follow in his footsteps to bring wealth to your community and the people you work with. You might become a billionaire in the process.

RELATED CONTENT: 2013 EC: Bob Johnson’s $3 Billion Sale of BET

• Men

by Edwian Stokes

August 9, 2026

LeBron James’ 76ers Contract Highlights Black Financial Empowerment and Economic Influence

LeBron James' move to the Philadelphia 76ers on a veteran's minimum contract highlights how Black athlete-entrepreneurs leverage individual brand equity.

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LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion, signed a two-year veteran’s minimum contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. While this contract is a significant pay cut, it highlights the growing influence of Black athletes who use their personal equity to impact metropolitan economies.

James’ decision provides an example of financial empowerment for African American business leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs. By valuing his influence beyond a traditional salary, he shows how Black talent can leverage their position to direct capital and gain economic control beyond standard employment agreements.

Basketnews.com reports James will earn $3,876,529 for the 2026–27 season, with a player option for $4,070,355 in 2027–28. After earning $52.5 million last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, he declined an estimated $19.4 million market salary to focus on championship opportunities and strategy.

A Catalyst for Regional Commerce

A study by The Boyd Company estimates James’ arrival will generate $250 million to $430 million in regional economic activity during his first season. Growth will come from higher ticket demand, increased hospitality spending, regional tourism, merchandise sales, and national media exposure. TickPick reported that entry-level ticket prices for Philadelphia’s preseason home opener rose from an average of $68 to $283 after the announcement.

“A move to Philly is more than a blockbuster sports story—it reinforces one of America’s premier sports and business markets, generates enormous media attention, fan engagement, tourism, and economic impact,” The Boyd Company stated on social media. “The biggest location decisions—whether made by Fortune 500 companies or superstar athletes—can reshape regional economies and propel a city’s national profile.”

The Model of Economic Empowerment

James’ financial footprint across major markets is thoroughly documented. During his second tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers, a Harvard University study cited by MPR News revealed that his presence boosted employment in downtown Cleveland by 24% and increased revenues at local eating and drinking establishments by 13% within a one-mile radius of the arena.

For Black business owners in Greater Philadelphia, especially in hospitality, event production, retail, and transportation, James’ move presents immediate opportunities. Increased foot traffic in commercial areas gives minority-owned suppliers greater access to corporate spending and tourism revenue.

Local organizations such as the African-American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, the Philadelphia Commerce Department’s Office of Economic Opportunity, and networks like Philly Black Businesses can connect entrepreneurs with new contracts, city grants, and business partnerships tied to this growth. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to use these resources and attend upcoming city-led workshops and networking events to capitalize on increased regional activity.

By prioritizing autonomy and long-term positioning over base salary, James not only demonstrates a modern approach to financial empowerment but also exemplifies how Black athletes can strategically leverage personal brand equity to influence broader economic systems.

RELATED CONTENT: How LeBron James Built A $100 Million Empire Through Fenway Sports Group

• Uncategorized

by Sidnee Michelle

August 9, 2026

Equifax Customers Could Claim Up To $600 In $2.2M Settlement

The case alleges Equifax violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

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Eligible Equifax customers have until Sept. 1, 2026, to file claims for a proposed $2.2 million class-action settlement over allegations that the credit reporting company inaccurately reported duplicate collection accounts, potentially affecting consumers’ credit scores and borrowing opportunities, CNET reports.

The proposed settlement stems from Bradberry v. Equifax Information Services LLC, a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. The case alleges Equifax violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act, a federal law requiring consumer reporting agencies to use reasonable procedures to ensure the accuracy of the information they provide.

According to the lawsuit, Equifax reported duplicate collection account tradelines on certain consumer credit reports issued between August and September 2022, making some consumers appear to owe more debt than they actually did. The alleged reporting errors may have affected some consumers’ ability to qualify for mortgages, credit cards, auto loans, and other financing.

The settlement class includes 37,651 consumers identified by Equifax as having received the affected credit reports. Eligible class members who submit valid claims by the Sept. 1 deadline may receive a payment of up to $600. Actual payments could be lower depending on the number of approved claims and the amount the court awards for attorneys’ fees and settlement administration.

Eligible class members also will receive six months of Equifax Complete credit monitoring, including access to credit reports, credit score monitoring, and up to $500,000 in identity theft insurance coverage.

The lawsuit was filed by plaintiff Charmayne Bradberry, who alleged Equifax reported the same $305 collection account twice, using different opening and reporting dates. According to the complaint, the duplicate reporting significantly lowered her credit score and may have affected her ability to obtain a mortgage.

Equifax denies the allegations and maintains it did not violate the law or harm consumers. The company agreed to the proposed settlement without admitting wrongdoing, and the court has not ruled on the merits of the claims.

A final approval hearing is scheduled for Oct. 6, 2026. To qualify, consumers must be U.S. residents or residents of U.S. territories who received an Equifax notification informing them they were part of the affected group. 

Eligible class members must submit a claim online or by mail using the settlement identification number included in the notice. Consumers who wish to opt out of or object to the proposed settlement also must do so by Sept. 1, 2026.

RELATED CONTENT: 4 Circumstances that Qualify You for a Free Credit Report

• BE The Game

by Edwian Stokes

August 9, 2026

Mo’ne Davis Drives Brand Equity And Leadership As Women’s Pro Baseball League Launches

From Little League standout to Columbia graduate, Davis joins the Los Angeles Queens in a landmark business initiative for women’s sports.

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Eleven years after gaining national attention at the Little League World Series, Mo’ne Davis returns to professional athletics as a key figure in a pioneering sports business venture. At 24, Davis was selected 10th overall by the Los Angeles Queens in the inaugural Women’s Pro Baseball League draft, the only active professional women’s baseball organization in the United States. On Aug. 1, Davis etched her name into the record books by scoring the first run in WPBL history, pacing the Queens to a thrilling 10–8 victory over the New York Heights in the league’s inaugural game.

For Davis, who holds degrees from Hampton University and Columbia University, returning to baseball is a strategic career move. According to Little League World Series archives, she became nationally recognized in 2014 as the first girl to pitch a shutout in tournament history, delivering a 70-mph fastball for Philadelphia. After playing college softball at Hampton, where she posted a .225 batting average over two seasons, and spending several years away from the spotlight, she entered the WPBL draft to pursue new challenges on her terms.

“I just wanted to try it out,” Davis said from the warning track at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield, Illinois. “I don’t like to go through life regretting anything. I want to make sure I can look back and be like, ‘Hey, I tried it out.'”

Davis is redefining her athletic brand by choosing not to pitch and focusing on field play and offensive skills. “No matter how many times anyone asks, the answer is gonna stay the same: I’m not pitching,” Davis stated. “I am doing what I want to do. I’m not doing what everyone else wants me to do. So whether you like it or not, I’m still gonna live my life, but I just want to show people, like, I’m gonna go out there and have fun.”

Building a Sustainable Enterprise in Women’s Sports

The WPBL represents a significant commercial expansion for women’s diamond sports, focusing on financial viability and operational growth. Co-founded by Justine Siegal, the first woman to coach in Major League Baseball, the four-team league includes the Los Angeles Queens, Boston Hunters, New York Heights, and San Francisco Firebells, all competing in Illinois. Setting a new precedent for professional sports, each team name celebrates the enduring legacy of a trailblazing woman.

To strengthen market credibility and executive leadership, the league appointed three-time World Series champion and former MLB general manager Dave Stewart as official advisor. The managerial roster features former MLB veterans Eric Young with Los Angeles, Matt Williams with San Francisco, Keith Foulke with Boston, and women’s baseball pioneer Rachelle “Rocky” Henley managing New York.

“We are thrilled to assemble a world-class group of leaders who can elevate the game and inspire the next generation of ballplayers,” Siegal said in an official league press release.

Negro League Roots and Brand Equity

Davis’s personal brand connects historic legacy with modern sports enterprise. Earlier this year, she signed with the Indianapolis Clowns of the Banana Ball League, according to team releases. The franchise honors the 1940s barnstorming Negro League team that featured trailblazer Toni Stone, the first female to play in professional men’s baseball. Mentored by former MLB center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr., Davis developed her sports business expertise and on-field skills during her time with the club.

Her involvement offers immediate commercial value to the WPBL. As a teenager, her marketability led to features on the cover of Sports Illustrated and Wheaties cereal boxes. Teammates recognize her visibility as an economic asset for the league.

“The exposure she’s gotten exposes us as well,” Queens outfielder Brittany Apagar said, acknowledging how high-profile branding benefits collective team valuations.

“I try to protect my peace,” Davis said. “I don’t want my teammates to look at me any differently. I want them to know I’m here to win games with you guys, and I’m here for the team.”

RELATED CONTENT: MLB’s Annual Civil Rights Game To Air On ‘Jackie Robinson Day’

• Business

by Sidnee Michelle

August 8, 2026

Serena Williams Is Looking To Fund The Next Trillion-Dollar Company

The tennis legend rebranded her investment firm.

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Serena Williams is betting that the next trillion-dollar company will emerge from entrepreneurs who have historically received little attention from traditional venture capital firms, Fast Company reports.

The tennis legend and entrepreneur said her newly rebranded investment firm, Starfire Ventures, is focused on identifying high-potential founders while expanding access to venture funding. Williams discussed the firm’s strategy during a live recording of the Rapid Response podcast at the Reckitt Catalyst event in Palm Beach, Florida. 

The firm’s new name marks a shift from Williams’ original venture capital platform, Serena Ventures, reflecting what she described as a long-term investment business designed to grow beyond her personal brand.

“I wanted it to be bigger than me,” Williams said. “I wanted it to be about the team.”

Williams said Starfire Ventures has invested in 16 companies that later achieved unicorn status, underscoring the firm’s emphasis on identifying startups with significant growth potential. She added that while data and due diligence remain essential, instinct also plays a major role in evaluating founders and business ideas.

The firm’s investment strategy continues to prioritize women and underrepresented entrepreneurs, a segment of the startup ecosystem that has historically received a small share of venture capital funding, according to PitchBook.

“We are only investing in winners,” Williams said. “If we don’t feel the company is going to return our fund, we’re not going to invest in them.”

Williams said expanding access to different founder networks is a competitive advantage rather than a charitable initiative, arguing that many investors overlook promising businesses because they repeatedly source deals from the same circles.

“We’re thinking about the next billion-dollar company, the next trillion-dollar company, and how to be on those cap tables as well,” she said.

Although Williams retired from professional tennis in 2022, she said venture investing now occupies most of her professional life as she continues building a portfolio of companies positioned for long-term growth.

RELATED CONTENT: Serena Williams To Talk Business And Venture Capital At Invest Fest 2026

• Sports

by Edwian Stokes

August 8, 2026

Dusty Baker Belongs In The Baseball Hall Of Fame

The veteran skipper built a business-class legacy of leadership, executive excellence, and cultural impact across 26 Major League seasons.

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When the National Baseball Hall of Fame Era Committee meets in December, Johnnie B. “Dusty” Baker Jr. could become the first Black manager inducted into Cooperstown. Baker’s career provides valuable lessons in executive leadership, organizational turnaround, and long-term value creation for corporate leaders and entrepreneurs.

A Track Record of Executive Turnarounds

Baker excelled as a leader, consistently revitalizing underperforming teams. Over 26 seasons, he achieved 2,183 wins, ranking eighth in Major League Baseball history. According to MLB.com’s Historical Career Analysis, every eligible manager with at least 2,000 wins has been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Baker is the only manager in baseball history to lead five franchises (Giants, Cubs, Reds, Nationals, and Astros) to division titles and postseason appearances. His adaptable approach succeeded across varying team cultures and budgets. According to Baseball-Reference’s Managerial Log, his teams regularly exceeded preseason expectations, earning him three National League Manager of the Year awards with the San Fransico Giants (1993, 1997, and 2000).

A Complete Cooperstown Resume

Cooperstown Expert’s Managerial Profile notes that Baker’s 12 seasons with 90 or more wins place him among the sport’s most consistent leaders. With a 19-year playing career that included 1,981 hits, 242 home runs, an NLCS MVP award, and a 1981 World Series title, he is one of only four people to achieve over 3,000 combined victories as a player and manager.

The Los Angeles Times Enshrinement Feature highlights that Baker’s Hall of Fame consideration recognizes his perseverance, strategic vision, and pioneering achievements.

Mastering Human Capital and Modern Analytics

Before artificial intelligence became a corporate priority, Baker balanced human capital management with advanced data analytics. For example, he held regular one-on-one meetings with players to set specific development goals and give actionable feedback, such as identifying adjustments to batting stance or approach at the plate.

As manager of the Giants, he worked closely with the recently inducted Hall of Fame second baseman Jeff Kent to identify weaknesses using situational statistics, encouraging Kent to attack certain pitches and become more patient in high-leverage moments—key changes that helped Kent win the National League MVP in 2000. Outfielder Barry Bonds won three National League MVPs (1993, 2001, and 2002) with Baker as his manager. Baker also brought in data analysts to support player decisions, implementing detailed pitcher-hitter matchup charts before this practice was common. Through these methods, Baker consistently helped players maximize their strengths and adapt to changing game conditions.

In an interview with Sports Info Solutions, Baker explained how he systematically tracked pitch efficiency, ground-ball ratios, and opponent timing long before computer algorithms became standard in baseball.

This combination of leadership and analytics led Baker to guide the Houston Astros to a World Series championship in 2022. FanGraphs’ Postseason Evaluation credits his effective bullpen management and precise matchup decisions for the team’s 11–2 postseason run, solidifying his strategic reputation.

A Legacy of Black Leadership and Venture Enterprise

Baker’s managerial success is rooted in a strong tradition of Black mentorship. Early guidance from Hank Aaron and Jim Gilliam connected him to Negro League pioneers like Cool Papa Bell and Satchel Paige. This mentorship inspired his commitment to Black representation and influenced his ventures in winemaking and energy.

Off the field, Baker co-founded Baker Family Wines, a successful Sacramento-based winery known for producing award-winning varietals and supporting local communities. He also launched renewable energy businesses focused on promoting sustainable practices, applying his collaborative leadership and innovative vision to these entrepreneurial efforts.

“I was taught pride from my mom and dad in culture about being Black,” Baker said while reflecting on his historical journey. “I’m hoping I can motivate other young brothers and sisters to achieve some things that don’t seem achievable.”

Baker’s Cooperstown credentials reflect not only individual achievement but also a lasting model for Black executive leadership.

Pro Athletes Trade Playbooks For LinkedIn To Build Business Empires

• News

by Sidnee Michelle

August 7, 2026

After Workforce Cuts, Trump Administration Launches New Push To Recruit Tech, Early-Career Talent

The initiative could create additional opportunities for recent graduates and early-career professionals.

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The Trump administration and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) are directing federal agencies to ramp up recruitment of early-career professionals and technology workers as it prepares for fiscal year 2027, signaling a shift toward targeted hiring after months of workforce reductions across the federal government, according to Federal News Network.

According to the outlet, a July 30 memorandum from the OPM instructs agencies to make early-career employees account for at least one-third of all federal hires during fiscal year 2027. The guidance also calls for expanded recruitment of technology professionals and broader use of governmentwide hiring tools designed to speed up the hiring process.

The initiative could create additional opportunities for recent graduates and early-career professionals seeking federal employment, particularly in technology, cybersecurity, and other mission-critical fields.

OPM said agencies should recruit through programs including the Pathways Program, the CyberAICorps Scholarship for Service program, and the recently launched USAJobs early-career talent network. The agency is also expanding its Tech Force initiative, which aims to hire about 1,000 employees for temporary two-year technology positions. About 300 recruits have joined the program so far, an OPM spokesperson told the outlet.

“Many agencies have gone on college campuses in the past, so nothing we’re doing here is brand new,” OPM Director Scott Kupor said. “But what we haven’t done is have a concerted effort where we can actually capture all those individuals in a talent network and then share those individuals pan-government.”

The hiring effort comes after a significant contraction in the federal workforce. According to the publication, the government has experienced a net loss of about 271,600 employees since early 2025, following widespread workforce reductions and limited hiring. OPM workforce data also shows the share of federal employees younger than 30 declined from about 9% in 2024 to 8% in 2025.

At the same time, hiring activity remains subdued. According to OPM data, USAJobs postings fell 42.8% between 2024 and 2025, and roughly three-quarters of the approximately 12,800 current job openings are concentrated within the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

The administration is also expanding the use of shared hiring certificates, with a goal of filling at least 60% of federal positions through the process in 2027. Under the system, OPM creates centralized lists of qualified applicants that multiple agencies can use instead of conducting separate recruitment efforts.

“OPM is trying to be the top of the funnel and really do a very big outbound recruiting effort for those roles,” Kupor told the outlet.

The July 30 memo also directs agencies to prioritize hiring outside the Washington metropolitan area and incorporate validated technical assessments into all hiring evaluations. Agencies are expected to complete detailed hiring forecasts before the start of fiscal year 2027 as OPM and the Office of Management and Budget review governmentwide staffing plans.

RELATED CONTENT: 4 Reasons an Early Career Start is the Best Option