GRAMBLING, La. — October 9, 2026 — GRAMMY Award-winning artist Ashanti and legendary R&B group Dru Hill will headline the Fifth Annual Kicks Ball, presented by adidas, hosted by Grambling State University and the Grambling Research and Resource Foundation, Inc., on Friday, November 27, 2026, at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside.
Held annually during Bayou Classic weekend, Kicks Ball brings together black-tie style, fresh kicks, live entertainment and philanthropy in support of Grambling State students.
Ashanti has been a fixture in R&B for more than two decades, earning a GRAMMY Award for her self-titled debut album and building a catalog that includes favorites such as “Foolish” and “Rock Wit U.” Dru Hill has remained one of R&B’s most recognized groups for more than three decades, with classics including “Tell Me” and “Never Make a Promise.”
“Each year, Kicks Ball gives us an opportunity to bring the Grambling State family together around something greater than the evening itself — our students,” said President Martin Lemelle, Jr. “Ashanti and Dru Hill will make this year’s event especially memorable, but the purpose remains the same: helping students continue their education when a financial barrier could otherwise stand in the way.”
Proceeds from Kicks Ball benefit the GUF Legacy GAP Scholarship Fund, which provides assistance to students facing financial gaps that could interrupt their progress toward graduation.
Since 2015, the fund has provided $1,517,952.89 in scholarship support to 1,734 Grambling State students, helping Tigers remain enrolled and continue toward their degrees.
“Kicks Ball gives us the opportunity to pair an exceptional Bayou Classic weekend experience with direct support for our students,” said Brandon A. Logan, Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation and Executive Director of the Grambling Research and Resource Foundation, Inc. “More than 1,700 students have received GAP Scholarship assistance since 2015. Every ticket purchased and every investment made helps us be there for a student when additional support can make the difference in reaching graduation.”
This year’s Kicks Ball carries added significance as Grambling State University celebrates its historic Multiversary — 125 years of academic excellence, 100 years of Tiger Athletics and 100 years of the World Famed Tiger Marching Band.
Now in its fifth year, Kicks Ball has become a signature part of Grambling State’s Bayou Classic weekend, bringing alumni, supporters, corporate partners and friends of the University together in New Orleans for an evening centered on fellowship, entertainment and student support.
Additional details, including this year’s Kicks Ball honorees, will be announced later this month.
Tickets and event information are available at gsukicksball.com.
EVENT DETAILS
What: Fifth Annual Kicks Ball, presented by adidas
When: Friday, November 27, 2026 | 8 p.m.
Where: Hilton New Orleans Riverside | New Orleans, Louisiana
Attire: Black Tie Formal with Kicks
Tickets & Information: gsukicksball.com
ABOUT KICKS BALL
The Grambling State University Kicks Ball, presented by adidas, is an annual fundraising gala held during Bayou Classic weekend in New Orleans. The black-tie sneaker event brings together entertainment, fellowship and philanthropy while raising support for the GUF Legacy GAP Scholarship Fund and Grambling State students.
ABOUT GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY
Grambling State University, located in Grambling, Louisiana, is a public historically Black university and a member of the University of Louisiana System. Founded in 1901, Grambling State University has a proud legacy of academic excellence, student achievement, athletic tradition, and cultural impact. The University offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs that prepare students to lead, serve, and succeed in a global society. Grambling State University remains committed to its motto: “Where Everybody is Somebody.” Learn more at gram.edu.