Jennifer Hudson to perform Kobe Bryant tribute at NBA All-Star Game
Hudson's performance will honor Bryant and his daughter, Gianna.
Jennifer Hudson will open NBA All-Star Game Sunday night in Chicago with a musical tribute to the late Kobe Bryant.
Hudson's hometown performance, which the NBA says will come right before the players' introductions, will honor Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, and the seven others who died in a helicopter crash in California on Jan. 26. The NBA did not announce what song Hudson will perform.
In addition to Hudson's performance, the NBA also revealed fellow Chicagoan Common will welcome fans to the game with "a moving narrative about what basketball means to [Chicago]."
Chaka Khan will also sing the national anthem prior to tip-off.
Chicago native Chance the Rapper will perform during the game's halftime, joined by Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled, and Quavo from Migos.
A public memorial service for Bryant and Gianna will be held on the morning of Feb. 24 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The date was chosen because it reflects the jersey numbers worn by Kobe (No. 24) and Gianna (No. 2).