Kevin Durant is facing allegations that he’s been operating a burner account on X( formerly Twitter.” The tweets from the alleged account were critical of Durant’s current and former teammates as well as his past coaches. On Sunday, as Durant was playing in the NBA All-Star Game, multiple screenshots of tweets went viral. In the tweets, the Houston Rockets star was alleged to be behind was sent from accounts under several aliases. Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker and former Suns coach Frank Vogel, Golden State’s Steph Curry, and coach Steve Kerr were targeted in the tweets. The messages also included complaints about the Rockets’ Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr. Screen recorded TWEETS from @gethigher77 AkA KEVIN DURANT’S Burner ACCOUNT pic.twitter.com/6hBxW5WCCd — FeerBock (@FeeredBucks) February 17, 2026 Durant addressed the controversy for the first time on Wednesday, February 18, three days after the tweets surfaced during the All-Star Game. Screen recorded TWEETS from @gethigher77 AkA KEVIN DURANT’S Burner ACCOUNT pic.twitter.com/6hBxW5WCCd — FeerBock (@FeeredBucks) February 17, 2026 “I know you gotta ask these questions, but I’m not here to get into Twitter nonsense,” Durant told reporters after the Rockets’ practice. I’m just here to focus on the season and keep but pushing. Kevin Durant on his burner account allegations: “I’m not here to get into Twitter nonsense.” pic.twitter.com/Bd8tu5kjGw — NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) February 18, 2026 “But I get you all have to (ask). My teammates know what it is; we’ve been locked in the whole season. We had a great practice today, looking forward to the road trip,” Durant continued. GILBERT ARENAS CLAIMS THE RELEASE OF THE TWEETS WAS AN INSIDE JOB Gilbert Arenas, former NBA guard and podcaster, chimed in, saying that the leak had to come from someone from the Rockets organization. Arenas gave his take on Gil’s Arena. “Now I’m on a burner account talking in 1st person? So why the f*ck am I in a private group chat on a burner?… The n**** who leaked it is the person behind it.” Gilbert Arenas on the alleged Kevin Durant burner account (via @GilsArenaShow)pic.twitter.com/5e7DR9PIcv — ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 19, 2026 “Now I’m on a burner account talking in 1st person? So why the f*ck am I in a private group chat on a burner?… The n**** who leaked it is the person behind it,” Arenas said. “If you look at these tweets and you look at how Kevin Durant texts, it’s not the same person. No burner account talks in the first person.” During All-Star weekend media availability, Durant was asked about his frequent use of the app by DeMarcus Cousins. “They don’t deserve to hear this God-level talk I’m giving to them,” Durant joked about social media users. “They take it for granted.” DURANT ADMITTED TO USING BURNING ACCOUNTS IN 2017 Using burning accounts is nothing new for Durant. In 2017, Durant confirmed that he used burner accounts to converse on social media. This season, Durant is averaging 25.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists. The Rockets are in fourth place in the Western Conference with a record of (33-20).
Donald Trump Showers Nicki Minaj With Love, ‘She’s So Beautiful’
President Donald Trump’s love for Nicki Minaj continued this week at the White House. On Wednesday, (Feb 18), Donald Trump showered the “Anaconda” rapper with compliments during his speech for a Black History Month event. Trump called Minaj “beautiful” and highlighted her political prowess. “How about Nicki Minaj? Do we love Nicki Minaj? I love Nicki Minaj. She was here a couple weeks ago. She’s so beautiful,” Trump raved. “I said, ‘Nicki, you’re so beautiful.’ Her nails are like that long, I said, ‘Nicki are they real?’ She didn’t want to get into that. But she was so beautiful and so great and she gets it, more importantly.” The president’s remarks of Minaj came as he was talking about a series of iconic black artists, such as guitarist Chuck Berry and singer Muddy Waters. After he went on a ramble about Minaj’s “beautiful” skin, the president turned back to his prepared speech where he continued to note more iconic black Americans, including Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther King Jr., and boxer Muhammad Ali. He argued that Black History Month is really “all about American history.” “Happy Black History Month, Happy Black History Year, and happy Black History Century,” Trump concluded. Last month, the Trinidadian singer and songwriter praised Trump at the so-called “Trump Accounts” event. Taking to the stage, Minaj said, “I am probably the President’s number one fan, and that’s not going to change. And the hate or what people have to say, it does not affect me at all. It actually motivates me to support him more, it’s going to motivate all of us to support him more.” She added, “We’re not going to let them get away with bullying him and you know the smear campaigns, it’s not going to work. He has a lot of force behind him and God is protecting him. Amen.”
A$AP Rocky and Nas Reunite for Ray-Ban Short Film Echoing “Belly”
A$AP Rocky has joined forces with Nas for a new Ray-Ban campaign that looks back to Belly, the 1998 film directed by Hype Williams that became a touchstone of late-1990s hip-hop style. The campaign, released February 19, coincides with the launch of Rocky’s Metal Collection for the eyewear brand. Serving as creative director, Rocky introduces a selection of optical frames and sunglasses priced between $202 and $249. The collaboration brings together fashion, music, and film in a way that feels less like a commercial exercise and more like a cultural callback. The accompanying short film borrows its mood and visual cues from Belly, a movie remembered as much for its imagery as for its storyline. Nas, who appeared in the original film, narrates the campaign, grounding it in personal memory. “Man, I get a phone call from Flacko this evening. He wants to meet in Harlem. Funny thing is, it’s the same restaurant where I last met with his pops before he passed. His pops was my dawg,” he says. In fact, in this story, Rocky becomes even more central to the film’s journey. Framing Legacy in the Present That line adds emotional weight to what might otherwise be a straightforward brand partnership. By invoking a shared history and a specific place in Harlem, the campaign folds biography into homage. It also connects Nas to Rocky’s influence, creating a bond that feels authentic instead of fabricated, and positions Rocky as a stylistic heir to earlier generations of New York rap. For Ray-Ban, the project positions the brand within a lineage of artists who have shaped popular culture beyond their music. Furthermore, this partnership allows Rocky to expand his growing creative legacy across fashion and music, strengthening Rocky’s influence in both arenas.
Yo Gotti’s CMG The Label Releases Official Statement On Lil Poppa Death
Yo Gotti and the Collective Music Group, better known as CMG The Label, are mourning the loss of one of the label’s brightest protégés, Lil Poppa. Together, Gotti and CMG shared an official statement on Thursday afternoon (February 19) via social media in tribute to their artist. Born Janarious Wheeler, Lil Poppa was 25 when he died on Wednesday, February 18. The Jacksonville, Florida, native was found deceased, and medical examiners later confirmed the cause as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The tragedy came just days after Lil Poppa released his latest single, “Outta Town Bae,” adding another layer of heartbreak to a career that many believed was still ascending. View this post on Instagram In an Instagram tribute, CMG described Poppa as “more than a gifted artist,” calling him “an ambitious young man whose depth stretched far beyond his years.” The label emphasized his limitless promise, writing that he “carried endless potential” and was deeply loved within the CMG family. Rappers Boosie Badazz, Yungeen Ace, Lil Duval were among the many across hip-hop to pay tribute to the late rapper after his death. Yo Gotti & CMG The Label (Collective Music Group) Release Official Statement On The Passing Of Rapper Lil Poppa The statement also reflected on the emotional weight of his music. “He was one of those rare creatives who poured his pain, growth, and truth into every lyric,” the label shared. Known for raw storytelling and vulnerable verses, Lil Poppa built a catalog rooted in lived experience. “His music reflected real life—its hardships, its lessons, and its triumphs,” CMG added, displaying authenticity as the foundation of his artistry. Beyond the studio, the label highlighted his bond with fans. “Through his passion and authenticity, he connected with listeners from all walks of life,” the statement read. “Fans saw themselves in his words. They found comfort in his vulnerability and strength in his resilience.” CMG closed with a solemn vow: “Poppa, we promise to honor your legacy with the respect and dignity it deserves. Your impact will never fade. We are all better because of you. Long Live Lil Poppa.”
Soulja Boy Announces He’s The ‘First Rapper’ to Automate His Voice with AI
Rapper Soulja Boy says he has taken another step into emerging technology. He claims he is the first rapper to automate his voice using artificial intelligence. “I was the first rapper to automate his voice with AI. Give me a call,” Soulja Boy wrote Tuesday on X. The post circulated widely across social media, where clips and screenshots showed references to a project sometimes described online as “SouljaAI.” Posts promoting the idea suggested fans could interact with an AI version of his voice. Representatives for the rapper did not immediately release detailed technical information. It remains unclear what tools or platform power the voice system. Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, has long framed himself as an early adopter of digital trends. He rose to prominence with the 2007 hit “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” which topped charts and spread through early online platforms. Social media buzz and questions Online reactions ranged from excitement to skepticism. Some users praised the move as innovative. Others questioned whether similar voice automation tools already exist. Posts tied to the rollout described the concept as allowing people to call or use an AI voice modeled after the rapper. Screenshots shared by entertainment accounts amplified those claims, though independent verification remains limited. The announcement arrives as artificial intelligence reshapes music production. AI tools can generate vocals, assist with mixing and replicate styles, raising questions about authorship and credit. Industry debate has intensified in recent years as artists experiment with machine learning. Labels and creators continue to grapple with how AI fits into traditional workflows. Soulja Boy has previously commented on the rapid development of AI, reflecting broader curiosity and concern among musicians. The technology’s growing presence has sparked both enthusiasm and criticism across the industry. A history of tech experimentation Throughout his career, Soulja Boy has embraced new platforms, often highlighting his role in internet culture. His early success was closely tied to online distribution and viral marketing strategies. Observers note that artists frequently make bold claims when introducing new technology. Determining who was “first” can be difficult in a fast-moving field. Still, his latest statement underscores how musicians are exploring new ways to connect with audiences. Voice automation and interactive AI tools could open new creative and commercial possibilities. For now, the rapper’s brief declaration stands as the clearest description of the project. “I was the first rapper to automate his voice with AI,” he wrote.
Chris Brown Accused by Ex Diamond Brown of Threats and Baby Drama
Diamond Brown, who shares a daughter, Lovely, with Chris Brown, has publicly accused the singer of attempting to disrupt her personal life and suggested he may be expecting another child. The exchange gained traction after The Shade Room highlighted her responses to commenters on Instagram, where she addressed speculation and criticism directly. Within hours, screenshots of her remarks spread widely across social media, drawing renewed attention to the pair’s co-parenting relationship. In one pointed reply, Diamond wrote, “LEAVE ME AND MINES ALONE! WORRY ABOUT YOUR BABY ON THE WAY! ” The statement appeared to allude to recent pregnancy rumors surrounding Brown and a woman he has been seen with publicly. Neither Chris nor his rumored partner has confirmed that they are expecting a child, with Brown remaining silent amid speculation. View this post on Instagram Diamond Accuses Brown of Threats and Relationship Interference Diamond also alleged that Brown has interfered with her current relationship. “OF COURSE NOT. Nobody been wanting that man for years now. What I’m not messing with is the fact he been making threats to my MAN and my relationship bc I’m trying to move forward. Don’t speak on s**t you know nothing about,” she wrote, pushing back against online narratives. In another comment, she added, “He wanna ruin my relationship and run men off?! Bet. We airing it all out baby.” Brown has not responded publicly to the claims. View this post on Instagram
GloRilla’s Sister Says Confronting the Rapper Would Require Police Backup
A private family dispute involving GloRilla has unfolded in public over the past several weeks, with the artist and her sister Victoria leveling painful accusations at one another. The latest exchange came during an appearance by Victoria on the web series 20 Women Vs., where she described feeling anxious about the prospect of seeing her sister in person. “I’d be scared as hell. I’ll be scared as I’m going to need every police in the United States with me,” she said. “I’ll be scared as a motherf*cker.” The strain had surfaced earlier this month in a series of social media posts. Victoria accused the Memphis-born performer, whose given name is Gloria Woods, of distancing herself from relatives after achieving success. “You think she this upright a*s person when she really not ain’t fwu since she got on and I’m constantly getting acknowledgment for being her sister and she ain’t fwu at all,” she wrote. “Gloria Woods call my bluff it’s been 4 years why the media haven’t seen your siblings? And don’t say cause you protecting us cause we still in Memphis it’s cause you talk about our struggles and you don’t fwu!!!! na let’s clock it.” GloRilla Fires Back on Instagram Live GloRilla responded during an Instagram Live broadcast, disputing her sister’s account and alleging long-standing harm within their relationship. “You don’t have to say everything you did to me as a kid. I was a minor, so half of it ain’t public record,” she said, before listing incidents she claims involved betrayal and legal consequences. “I ain’t gonna talk about how you got me sent to jail for a whole week. We ain’t gonna talk about that. How you tried to shoot me, you done set me up, you got me sent to jail. We ain’t gonna talk about none of that, all right? I ain’t gonna talk about half the stuff you did. Just leave it alone.” The exchange has left observers with more questions than answers. No court records connected to the allegations have been made public, and neither woman has signaled an effort to resolve the conflict privately.
Shyne Reflects on Club Shooting, Diddy & Upcoming Kings Theatre Show
Shyne stopped by HOT 97 to talk to Nessa about his upcoming headlining show on May 2, 2026 at Kings Theatre — his first ever as a solo headliner since the release of his debut album Shyne in 2000. The show marks the 25th anniversary of the album and serves as a celebration of a career that was interrupted just 90 days after his debut dropped. He opens up about not being able to tour at the height of his success, what this homecoming in Brooklyn truly means, and why this night feels bigger than redemption. He also reflects on his journey from incarceration to becoming an elected official in Belize, the impact of his deportation, and how spirituality changed his life. Shyne speaks candidly about his time with Bad Boy Records, his complicated history with Diddy, being compared to The Notorious B.I.G., and how he views that conversation today. He shares what success looks like now as a father, humanitarian, and public servant — and teases new music, possible surprise guests, and what fans can expect to feel when they leave Kings Theatre on May 2nd.
Lil Poppa Reportedly Passed Away at 25 Years Old
Lil Poppa reportedly passed away at 25 years old. View this post on Instagram
Drew Sidora & Chanel Nicole Scott Speak on Divorce, Housewives Drama & Dating Red Flags
Drew Sidora and Chanel Nicole Scott stopped by HOT 97 to talk with Nessa about love, divorce, and rebuilding after heartbreak. Drew opened up about what she’s learned during her very public split, how therapy helped her take accountability, and why rediscovering her voice and purpose changed everything. She addressed her time on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, responded to being labeled a liar, and explained how that narrative started. Drew also clarified where things stand in her divorce, why protecting her children has been a priority, and shut down rumors about dating Porsha Williams’ ex-fiancé. She even addressed the long-running question about her family tie to Michael Jordan. Chanel broke down attachment styles, red flags in dating, and how to tell the difference between chemistry and true compatibility. The two also previewed their upcoming event, “Kicks & Conversations,” powered by Chem-Ministry on February 21st, where they’ll host a live panel focused on honest conversations about relationships, healing, and setting boundaries. Expect real dialogue, practical insight, and unfiltered talk about modern love.