Mary J. Blige & Nicki Minaj Head Hip Hop Heavy Halftime Show

The Queen’s court looks to take new meaning this upcoming sports season as news reports indicate that Queen of Hip Hop Soul Mary J. Blige is one of many Hip Hop/R&B acts tapped to take center at this year’s NBA All Star weekend. The singer, who’s putting the finishing touches on ‘My Life II: The Journey Continues Act 2’ (due this May), will lend her soulful vocals to a performance of the U.S. national anthem.

Elsewhere, ‘Fly’ fashionista Nicki Minaj will perform a medley of hits, including her recently launched ‘Starships’ during the halftime show. The cut, lifted from her April 3rd due sophomore set ‘Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded’, is the rapstress’s first official offering this era (following buzz singles ‘Stupid Hoe’ and ‘Roman In Moscow’).

Rappers Pitbull, will.I.am, J. Cole and Flo Rida will also guest the NBA All Star weekend, with singer Ne-Yo also tapped to make an appearance as well. Fans can catch the NBA All Star game February 26th on TNT.