On Saturday, August 2, the tennis courts came alive with more than just matches—they became a stage for culture, legacy, and community. The inaugural 40 LOVE Legacy Builder Ceremony brought together Dallas’ leaders, supporters, and change-makers for a celebration that honored Black excellence and the people committed to ensuring our names, stories, and contributions endure for generations.
As host for the evening, I had the privilege of representing DW, one of Texas’ longest-running Black media outlets, in an event that perfectly aligned with our mission to preserve and amplify Black voices.
“This is more than a game… it’s about creating a space where our community feels seen, celebrated, and inspired to keep building. Tennis is just the canvas—we’re here to paint a bigger picture of legacy.” – 40 LOVE founder, Dr. Lamar Quinn
The atmosphere was electric, with each court offering its own experience. On the Arthur Ashe and Althea Gibson courts, pro players delivered high-energy matches that kept fans on their feet, while the Serving Vibes court pulsed with music from DJ Nightcrawler and DJ She Real.
The Serving Love & Legacy court—presented by Dallas Weekly—was a hub for cultural storytelling, where interviews and candid conversations were captured in real time. Adding to the excitement was Coach Jamel, serving as the official umpire for the day. With precise calls, boundless energy, and a front-row seat to the action, he elevated every match to championship level. This wasn’t your cousin’s backyard tennis game—it was Black Wimbledon energy, complete with live pro matches, whistle blows, and the kind of intensity that had the crowd hanging on every point.
Other courts offered lessons, wellness activations, and spaces for connection. The Serving Community court hosted a lively sunset party and tennis pong, while the Serving Looks & Aces and Courtside Couture courts gave guests the chance to capture their best angles in stylish photo ops. It was all top-tier and serving (you get it?!) Black culture on the hard courts.
The event’s success was made possible through the support of Maker’s Mark, Celsius, and Dallas Weekly as the proud media sponsor. Their partnership helped transform 40 LOVE from a tennis event into a multi-layered cultural celebration.
“I always say, you can’t build legacy without resources,” Dr. Quinn said. “When brands believe in the mission, they’re not just writing a check—they’re planting seeds that will grow for years to come.”
Beyond the festivities, the evening carried a deeper purpose—showcasing the next generation of leaders. Through Toast for Charity, young Black men from the community showed up not only as volunteers but as emerging leaders.
They defied stereotypes, arriving with focus, drive, and leadership—many of them college-bound or already pursuing higher education. In an unplanned highlight, several delivered impromptu speeches with remarkable clarity and conviction about their futures.
The 2025 Legacy Builder honorees are: Swan Lee, Sharde Redmon, Frankie Pitts, LaDrica Derrico, Morgan Peaks, Sammi Bivens, Latame Phillips, Willie Johnson, Devin Guinn, Ashley Ollison, Terrence Lomeka and Lauren Quinn.
“These are people who didn’t just show up for their own success,” Dr. Quinn said. “They’ve invested in the people around them, in their communities, in the generations coming up behind them. That’s what real legacy building looks like.”
Guests embraced the “Black Wimbledon” theme with bold, fashion-forward ensembles. By the end of the evening, the courts had hosted not just matches but moments—shared victories, exchanged stories, and a collective reminder that legacy is both a responsibility and a privilege.
“We’re here to remind our people that we are worth honoring now,” Dr. Quinn said in closing.